In January 2023, I arrived in beautiful Sierra Leone to assume my duties as Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone. Time flies and now I am about to bid farewell to my Sierra Leonean friends.

Over the past three years, I have had the privilege of witnessing Sierra Leone's steady progress along the path of peace and development, and of seeing that China-Sierra Leone relations maintain excellent performance and become a good example of China-Africa solidarity and cooperation.

Over the past three years, the two countries have close high-level interaction. In 2024, H.E. President Julius Maada Bio paid a state visit to China and attended the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, becoming the first head of state in Sierra Leone's history to visit China twice in a single year. The two leaders reached broad and important consensus on deepening the China-Sierra Leone Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership, providing strategic guidance for the development of bilateral relations.

Political mutual trust between the two sides continues to deepen. China firmly supports Sierra Leone in safeguarding its national independence, sovereignty, security, and development interests, and resolutely opposes external interference in Sierra Leone's internal affairs. Sierra Leone has repeatedly reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the One-China principle and its strong support for all efforts made by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification.

The practical cooperation has yielded fruitful results. Just the third day after my arrival in Sierra Leone, I attended the handover ceremony for the China-Aided Sierra Leone Foreign Service Academy. Before my departure, I attended another groundbreaking ceremony for the China-Aided fishing port, where I was delighted to see it named the Julius Maada Bio Industrial Fishing Port. China has been Sierra Leone's largest trading partner and largest source of foreign investment for many years. These vividly demonstrate the rich substance and efficient progress of our practical cooperation.

The two sides coordinated closely on such issues as world peace and development. China firmly supports Sierra Leone in fulfilling its responsibilities within international and regional organizations such as the United Nations Security Council, C-10, and ECOWAS. We support Sierra Leone's efforts to redress historical injustices against Africa, and stand together with Sierra Leone in upholding genuine multilateralism. We will jointly promote solidarity and cooperation among Global South, safeguard the interests of developing countries, and uphold international fairness and justice.

People-to-people exchanges between our two countries have become increasingly vibrant. Over the past three years, nearly 20,000 Sierra Leonean citizens have obtained visas to travel to China for tourism, business, and visits—a historic high. The Chinese government has consistently supported Sierra Leone's human resource development, with over 500 Sierra Leoneans receiving Chinese government scholarships to pursue academic studies in China. More than 2,500 Sierra Leoneans from various sectors have benefited from participating in diverse China-Aided training programs. I have traveled across all five provinces of Sierra Leone and was honored with the title of Honorary Paramount Chief by the Bambara Chiefdom, forging deep friendships with the people of Sierra Leone.

Over the past three years, I have fully experienced Sierra Leone's tropical charm and picturesque landscapes, its diverse and inclusive culture, and the warmth and friendliness of its people. I am particularly impressed by the resilience and vitality Sierra Leone has demonstrated on its development journey. A nation once scarred by years of civil war now ranks second in West Africa, fifth in Africa, and 57th globally in peace indices. It has also assumed the role of a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, playing a vital part in safeguarding global peace. A nation once devastated by the Ebola outbreak has now rebuilt its health security infrastructure. Now it not only can swiftly respond to epidemics like M-pox, but also actively dispatched personnels to assist other countries in combating infectious diseases, demonstrating its leadership in Africa's health sector. I am confident that through the joint efforts of the Government and people of Sierra Leone, the country will surely embrace an more prosperous and promising tomorrow.

There is an ancient Chinese poem that says, “True friendship knows no distance; even across ten thousand miles, we remain neighbors.” I will forever cherish the white sand beach of Freetown, the coconut palms of Banana Island, the vast rice fields of Bo, the majestic mountains of Tonkolili, and all the friends I made in Sierra Leone alongside its gracious people. I sincerely wish that China-Sierra Leone friendship can last forever and both nations have a brighter future!

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/carrying-forward-traditional-friendship-for-a-shared-future-farewell-message-by-h-e-wang-qing%ef%bc%8cchinese-ambassador-to-sierra-leone/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Guild of Newspaper Editors – Sierra Leone (GoNE-SL) has strongly condemned a police raid on the offices of The Watch Newspaper, carried out on Tuesday, 18th November 2025, by officers of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The Guild described the incident as an alarming act of intimidation and a direct threat to press freedom in the country.

According to staff who witnessed the operation, CID officers stormed the premises claiming they were searching for the Managing Editor of The Gleaner Newspaper. Workers immediately clarified that The Gleaner does not operate from that address. Despite that clarification, the officers allegedly insisted that the Secretary of The Watch accompany them to CID headquarters for further questioning.

The Guild denounced the raid as harassment, stressing that police invasions of media institutions have no place in a democratic society. Guild Chairman, Thomas Dixon, said the action amounted to intimidation aimed at punishing journalists for publishing legitimate stories. “Media houses should not be subjected to police raids for publishing a story. If the Police want intelligence, they can use the story as a lead. What they did on that day amounts to harassment and intimidation. There are many people online with pictures and videos of Jos Leijdekkers who could be of immense help to them,” he noted.

GoNE-SL emphasized that journalists are under no obligation to provide intelligence to law enforcement and that newsrooms are not extensions of the Police. The Guild said the incident undermines the ability of reporters to work freely and without fear.

The Guild called on the Sierra Leone Police to explain the circumstances that led to the raid, ensure accountability and desist from any further interference with the operations of media institutions.

Reaffirming its mission, the Guild stated that it remains committed to defending the rights, safety and independence of journalists and editors across Sierra Leone.

The statement was signed by the Secretary-General of GoNE-SL, Ishmail Saidu Kanu, Esq. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/guild-of-editors-condemns-cid-raid-on-the-watch-newspaper/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), in partnership with the High Commission of Canada, on Thursday 20 November 2025 held a high-level fraud awareness and document security training for frontline and technical NCRA staff in Freetown; marking a significant step in Sierra Leone’s fight against identity manipulation.

The initiative comes at a time when global threats to identity integrity are escalating and Sierra Leone continues to expand its digital ID ecosystem to enhance national security, service delivery and public trust.

Speaking shortly after the session, the Director General of NCRA, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, reaffirmed the Authority’s strong commitment to enhancing document authentication processes, strengthening staff capacity and deepening collaboration with national and international partners.

“With partners like the High Commission of Canada, we are laying a firm foundation for a secure and credible national identity system,” Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi said. “This is about national security, economic stability and protecting every Sierra Leonean.”

Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi has been leading an aggressive nationwide campaign to combat identity fraud, declaring it “a fight that we must win.”

The day’s training was delivered by Jennifer O’Connell, a seasoned expert of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), who has spent over two decades working in border protection, immigration enforcement and anti-fraud operations. Her mission is to equip NCRA officers with modern tools to detect fraudulent attempts before they penetrate national systems.

Ms. Jennifer O’Connell detailed common methods used in identity manipulation, including counterfeit birth certificates, altered death records and other fraudulent documents frequently exploited for human trafficking, illegal migration and financial or cross-border crime.

Addressing the gathering, Alfred B. Sesay, Director of Human Resources Management at the NCRA, stressed the urgency of the fight.

“Identity fraud is a national security threat and we are confronting it head-on,” he said. He underscored that foundational identity records; births, deaths, marriages, national ID cards and the National Identification Number (NIN) form the backbone of all other services, including passports, banking and social protection.

Alfred Sesay further disclosed ongoing engagements with the Immigration Department to ensure that the NIN becomes a mandatory requirement for all passport applications. This, he said, would eliminate the loopholes that previously enabled individuals to secure passports without verifiable identity information in the national database.

“It is unacceptable for anyone to carry a newly issued passport that our system cannot validate,” he emphasized. “A passport must be anchored on a verified national identity. That era of shortcuts is ending.”

He also encouraged staff to embrace their role as gatekeepers of national identity. “Our frontline staff are custodians of citizens’ information. Clean, accurate data strengthens the entire system. This training equips us to detect fraud and protect the national identity ecosystem.”

Senior staff, including Mohamed S. Konuwa, Abubakarr Javombo and Sahr Foday, echoed the need for stronger collaboration with immigration authorities, medical regulators and security agencies to ensure consistent verification of foundational documents.

Participants reflected on several fraud risks encountered in Sierra Leone, such as attempts to acquire passports without national IDs, manipulation of birth or death certificates for inheritance disputes, falsified medical documents, insider threats within institutions and forged papers used to move children across borders. One NCRA officer remarked, “When someone presents a passport that has no corresponding national identity record, that is not simply a mistake; it is a red flag. Our duty is to say no and protect the system.”

The training followed a recent engagement with Canada’s Consular Office, led by the Honorary Consul for Canada in Sierra Leone, Kofie Macauley, who announced that Sierra Leoneans seeking Canadian services will no longer need to travel to Guinea or Ghana for biometric fingerprinting; thanks to upgraded capabilities now available in Freetown.

Commending the proactive stance of Sierra Leone, Ms. Jennifer O’Connell described the civil registry as “the heartbeat of national identity.”

“Your officers are the first line of defence,” she said, warning that once fraudulent foundational documents enter the system, every other national document becomes compromised. She cited global cases where poorly verified certificates enabled human trafficking, welfare fraud, illegal migration and transnational crime.

The training ended with renewed motivation among participants, who described the session as timely, practical and crucial in strengthening national security and restoring public confidence in Sierra Leone’s identity ecosystem. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ncra-intensifies-crackdown-on-identity-fraud-with-canadian-led-document-security-training/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) has formally responded to the All People’s Congress (APC), firmly defending its decision to impose a fine on the party for breaching Section 39(1) of the Political Parties Act No. 25 of 2022. The reply, dated 20th November 2025, was addressed to the APC National Secretary-General and signed by the Commission’s Executive Secretary, Olusegon A. David.

In its letter, the PPRC reiterated that the fine issued against the APC was lawful, procedurally correct and grounded in explicit provisions of the 2022 Act. It emphasized that the penalty was imposed pursuant to Section 39(2)(a), which mandates the Commission to take regulatory action once there is proof of a violation.

The Commission clarified that all decisions taken, including the recent punitive action,were based strictly on law and facts before it. The response highlighted that on 11th November 2025, the Commission convened a meeting with both the APC and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) to address rising incidents of inciting and inflammatory public statements by members of the two main political parties. The PPRC said the purpose of the meeting was to de-escalate tensions and preserve public order.

According to the Commission, that engagement ended with the APC and SLPP signing an agreement committing themselves to responsible conduct and restraint. Immediately afterward and in line with Section 39(2)(a) the Commission issued a formal warning letter.

Responding to the APC’s demand for “verified evidence,” the PPRC stressed that Section 39(2) clearly states that proof for punitive action must be “upon proof by the Commission,” not by political parties. The Commission said the responsibility for establishing such proof rests squarely with it and all procedural steps outlined under Section 39(2)(a–d) were fully observed.

The PPRC further noted that the 14-day deadline given to the APC to comply with the sanction expires on 2nd December 2025, after which it will be compelled to invoke additional punitive measures provided under the Act if compliance is not met.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law, political stability and ensuring that all political parties adhere to the standards required for a peaceful and democratic Sierra Leone.

The correspondence was copied to several key national and international stakeholders, including the Chairman and Commissioners of the PPRC, the Chairman of the APC, the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the World Bank, UNDP, the European Union Delegation, the Embassies of the United States, Ireland, China, Germany and representatives of the African Union and ECOWAS. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/pprc-replies-apc-our-decision-is-based-on-law-and-verified-proof/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (Sierra Leone) Limited continues to solidify its reputation as the country’s most trusted and forward-thinking petroleum company, recording remarkable successes driven by strategic innovation, exemplary customer service and strong adherence to local content development. Over the years, NP (SL) has not only expanded its footprint nationwide but has also invested significantly in technology, infrastructure and human capital; making it a leading model of indigenous corporate excellence.

As one of Sierra Leone’s proud indigenous companies, NP (SL) has consistently demonstrated what it means to lead through innovation. One of the company’s most celebrated achievements is the introduction of the NP Energy Pass Card, a groundbreaking electronic fuel payment system that has transformed the fueling experience for individuals, institutions and corporate bodies. The Energy Pass Card has enhanced transparency, convenience and control for fleet managers and everyday users alike, ushering in a new era of digital fuel management in the country.

Beyond technology, NP (SL) has maintained an impressive record of nationwide service availability. Its network of fuel stations continues to grow, ensuring communities, from urban centers to remote towns, have reliable access to high-quality petroleum products. This expansion has also created hundreds of jobs, empowered local contractors and enhanced local economic activity around its service points.

A major component of NP (SL)’s success story is its commitment to customer satisfaction. The company maintains a strong tradition of ensuring that customers not only receive quality products but also enjoy fast, respectful and professional service across all stations. This customer-centric culture has become one of the company’s strongest competitive advantages, cementing trust between NP (SL) and the communities it serves.

In addition, NP (SL) continues to support Sierra Leone’s broader development agenda by sustaining its local content policy. The company takes pride in ensuring that Sierra Leoneans occupy key positions within the Management and operational structures. By prioritizing indigenous expertise, NP (SL) has helped nurture a generation of skilled professionals in the petroleum sector, contributing significantly to national capacity building.

Environmental responsibility also forms part of NP’s operational philosophy. The company has invested in modern fuel storage and dispensing technologies that meet global safety and environmental standards, ensuring its operations align with international best practices. Such investments underscore NP’s commitment to both community well-being and long-term sustainability.

Furthermore, NP (SL) has maintained strong partnerships with Government agencies, regulatory bodies and private-sector players;strengthening the petroleum supply chain while ensuring stability in the distribution of essential fuel products across the country. At critical moments, NP (SL) has demonstrated reliability, particularly during national emergencies, by ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply when it matters most.

Today, NP (SL) stands as a shining example of indigenous entrepreneurship, resilience and strategic growth. Its successes reflect a blend of vision, innovation and a deep understanding of customer needs. As the company continues to expand and evolve, Sierra Leoneans can look forward to even greater improvements in service delivery, digital transformation and economic empowerment.

With its unmatched track record, NP (SL) Ltd remains firmly positioned as Sierra Leone’s premier petroleum marketing company; trusted, dependable and committed to powering progress nationwide. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/np-sl-records-remarkable-successes-reinforces-status-as-nations-most-trusted-fuel-provider/

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Choithram International School (CIS), together with the Choithram International School Parents’ Association, on Friday, 21 November 2025, officially handed over the newly renovated Hill Cut Road Community School to residents of the Hill Cut Road community. The project marks a significant investment in improving educational infrastructure for underserved pupils within the area.

The renovation, funded through charitable activities organized by CIS, including movie nights, fun fairs and parent-led fundraising initiatives, saw major structural improvements to the previously dilapidated school.

The CIS Principal, Niharika Agnani, in her statement, said the initiative stemmed from a decision to direct proceeds from school fundraising events towards a meaningful community project. According to her, after assessing various options, the Hill Cut Road Community School was identified as being most in need of urgent intervention.

Niharika Agnani explained that parents, friends of the school and key supporters contributed to raising the funds required to refurbish the facility. She thanked all who donated, noting that the intervention would now provide children with a safer and more conducive learning environment. She credited the local Councillor and members of the community for helping identify and assess the school before renovation began and promised that such initiative will be happening every year.

Naman Agnani of CIS expressed gratitude to the parents and contractors who played critical roles in completing the project. He noted that during the renovation, CIS temporarily adjusted its operations to ensure the project could proceed effectively. Naman Agnani added that the refurbished building was intended to offer an improved learning environment that would benefit pupils now and in the future.

Councillor Daboh of the Hill Cut Road Community expressed profound appreciation for CIS and its Parents’ Association. He said the school had long been in a deteriorated condition, with damaged roofing, poor sanitation, weak structures and an environment that had discouraged learning.  Councillor Daboh noted that the community had engaged CIS because of its longstanding service to the constituency through Choithram Hospital and its health outreach programmes.

He called for further support in the provision of classroom furniture, blackboards, books, chairs and electricity to fully equip the school further urging parents to continue sending their children to school and reaffirmed the community’s commitment to safeguarding the upgraded facility.

Head Teacher, Michael G. S. Kamara, described the intervention as a transformative moment for the Hill Cut Road Community School. He thanked CIS, the community and stakeholders for recognizing the need and acting decisively to improve the learning environment.

The Head Teacher acknowledged Councillor Daboh, Councillor Sassa, teachers and parents for their support, saying he hoped the partnership would open doors for further development. He emphasized that the new infrastructure would motivate both pupils and staff and help the school deliver on its mission.

Speaking on behalf of the Community stakeholders, Steve Sesay thanked CIS for serving the community selflessly. He emphasized that the improvements were visible and significant, and prayed for blessings upon those who contributed.

Mohamed Wurie, speaking on behalf of the CIS Parents’ Association,  said parents supported the initiative wholeheartedly because CIS promotes values of community service and shared responsibility. He reaffirmed the parents’ commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with the Hill Cut Road community.

Delivering the vote of thanks, one of the pupils, Hassanatu Mabinty Kamara expressed deep appreciation to CIS for providing a renewed place of learning. She described the new building as a foundation for hope and future opportunities, pledging on behalf of her peers to take proper care of the facility and uphold the trust placed in them.

The handover ceremony concluded with renewed commitment from all stakeholders to maintain the facility and continue fostering collaboration aimed at improving education within the Hill Cut Road community.

The successful renovation stands as a testament to Choithram International School’s longstanding tradition of service, leadership and community development. CIS has once again demonstrated that quality education extends beyond the classroom, reflecting a deep commitment to uplifting communities, supporting vulnerable learners and investing in Sierra Leone’s future. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/choithram-international-school-hands-over-fully-renovated-hill-cut-road-community-school/

Lǒr Restaurant, one of Freetown’s newest and most talked-about culinary destinations, is rapidly distinguishing itself as a refined haven for lovers of exceptional food, warm ambience and first-class service. Located in the West End of the capital, the restaurant has quickly become a preferred choice for families, corporate diners, diplomats, expatriates and Sierra Leoneans seeking a world-class dining experience without leaving the city.

Situated along the scenic Peninsular Highway in Juba, the restaurant has swiftly risen to become a top choice for locals and visitors alike, setting a new standard for taste, elegance and exceptional service.

Since opening its doors, Lǒr Restaurant has earned a reputation for blending elegance with comfort, offering an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and inviting. Its thoughtfully designed interior, accented with modern décor, ambient lighting and carefully curated artwork, creates a serene setting ideal for business meetings, celebrations, intimate dinners or simply a relaxing night out.

At the centre of Lǒr’s appeal is its diverse and innovative menu, crafted to satisfy a wide range of palates. From premium steaks and expertly seasoned seafood to chef-specialty dishes inspired by both African and international cuisines, the restaurant consistently delivers meals that are fresh, flavourful and beautifully presented. Patrons have particularly praised the consistency of its standards, the creativity of its culinary team and the restaurant’s commitment to using quality ingredients.

Beyond the food, Lǒr Restaurant has also been lauded for the professionalism and hospitality of its staff. Attentive, courteous and well-trained, the service team ensures that every guest feels valued from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. The Management’s unwavering focus on customer satisfaction has made the establishment a standout in Freetown’s competitive dining scene.

The restaurant also offers a curated selection of wines, cocktails and beverages, making it a stylish venue for evening relaxation or after-work gatherings. Its serene outdoor area further adds to the dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy the cool evening breeze while savouring their meals.

Over the past months, Lǒr Restaurant has hosted numerous private events, themed nights and social gatherings, cementing its role as not just a place to eat, but a vibrant lifestyle destination. In an era where Freetown’s hospitality industry is experiencing renewed growth and diversification, Lǒr is contributing meaningfully by setting a new benchmark for quality, class and consistency.

As the restaurant continues to innovate and expand its offerings, many believe Lǒr Restaurant is poised to become one of Sierra Leone’s most iconic dining brands; an establishment that mirrors the country’s rising standards and evolving taste for excellence.

For customers seeking a blend of fine cuisine, warm atmosphere and professional service, Lǒr Restaurant stands out as a must-visit gem in the capital’s culinary landscape. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/lor-restaurant-becomes-the-citys-go-to-destination-for-luxury-dining/