Author: gleanernewspaper

Ekaterinburg, 2026 – During the plenary session of the Youth Economic Forum in Ekaterinburg, His Excellency Ambassador Mohamed Yongawo, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Sierra Leone to the Russian Federation, was recognised for his distinguished leadership and persistent efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between Sierra Leone and Russia. The award, presented at a high-profile gathering of young leaders and policymakers, recognises Ambassador Yongawo’s long-term diplomatic engagement and proactive outreach to academic, business, and investment communities.According to the University Administration, the award recognises Ambassador Yongawo’s exceptional collaboration with Russian educational institutions, commercial partners, and potential investors—initiatives that have…

The Bible Society of Sierra Leone (BSSL) has donated a collection of scholarly edition Scriptures and reference works to various theological colleges across the country as part of its ongoing commitment to theological education and faithful Bible engagement. The non-denominational organisation, a member of the global United Bible Societies (UBS) fellowship, seeks to increase access to high-quality biblical resources while also assisting pastors, theologians, and students preparing for ministry in Sierra Leone.Mr Edwin Fraser, BSSL’s General Secretary, led the distribution of academic volumes to several institutions in Freetown, as well as colleges in Makeni, Bo, and Kono. Rev. Dr Warren…

A woman from Sub-Saharan Africa was arrested at Mohammed V International Airport on suspicion of international cocaine trafficking, prompting a judicial investigation by Casablanca authorities. On Sunday, April 19, 2026, the passenger was detained shortly after arriving on a flight from Freetown, Sierra Leone. Officers discovered two concealed packages containing 7 kilograms and 330 grams of cocaine during a customs inspection of her personal belongings, according to officials. The woman has been detained pending further investigations, which will be overseen by the competent public prosecutor. According to investigators, the investigation will seek to clarify the specific circumstances surrounding the seizure,…

Freetown, April, 2026 — A delegation of international moral guarantors overseeing the Agreement for National Unity between the Government of Sierra Leone and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) paid a courtesy call on His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio today, praising his leadership in advancing peace, dialogue, and democratic stability domestically and across the ECOWAS region. Rev. Shodankeh Johnson, Board Chairman of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, explained that the guarantors were in the country to assess progress toward implementing the Unity Agreement and to follow up on recommendations from the Tripartite Committee. The visit is…

Kissy, Freetown —  April, 2026 — Ing. Edmond Nonie, Deputy Minister of Energy I, today led the movement of the first turbine for the Nant Power Project from Queen Elizabeth II Quay to the project site in Kissy, Eastern Freetown. Hundreds of residents gathered along Jenner Wright and Bai Bureh roads to watch the convoy carrying heavy equipment and government officials make their way to the construction site, applauding and expressing hope for improved city electricity supply.  The turbine was carefully unloaded on the Kissy site, where installation work will begin as part of the Nant Project’s phased development. Ing.…

In preparation for the 2026 Decennial Housing and Population Census, the Sierra Leonean government has committed more than US$20 million, indicating an unprecedented level of support for national planning and data collection. Speaking to attendees at the Civic Day Series in the Karene district on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Samuel Ansumana, Director of Communication at Statistics Sierra Leone, verified the funding.Ansumana praised the government’s determination, calling the funding “the most firm commitment I have ever seen from any government to support Census in this country.” According to him, the funds have been used for vital infrastructure and logistics that will…

The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has reiterated its commitment to strengthening controls at the country’s ports as part of the larger national drug emergency, emphasising the importance of a coordinated, multi-agency response to combat illicit trafficking.International reports identifying Sierra Leone as a transit point have heightened public concern about drug trafficking through the country. According to SLPHA, these findings highlight the importance of a national approach rather than assigning responsibility to a single institution. The Authority emphasises that port operations are managed by a multi-agency system, with Customs, Police, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and…

Hong Kong Customs intercepted a suspected drug trafficking case at Hong Kong International Airport on April 13, seizing approximately 3 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated market value of $2.7 million. During routine customs clearance procedures, officers discovered the suspected drugs concealed inside an incoming passenger’s baggage. A 36-year-old woman arrived in Hong Kong from Freetown, Sierra Leone, via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. After the discovery, she was arrested and charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance. The trial began on April 15 in the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts. Hong Kong Customs said…

By Oswald Mensah CokerDr Ibrahim Bangura stands out as a remarkable leader in today’s complex world. His qualities and vision make him a source of inspiration for many.Vision and Direction One of the key aspects of Dr Bangura’s leadership is his clear vision. He sets achievable goals and communicates them effectively to those around him. This clarity helps others understand not just what needs to be done, but why it is important. People feel more connected to the mission when they see the bigger picture. Integrity and Trust Trust is essential in effective leadership, and Dr Bangura exemplifies this trait.…

The Sierra Leone government has confirmed that a number of bridge and road projects in Karene District are on track, with at least two critical bridges set to be completed by the end of 2026. Chernor Bah, Minister of Information and Civic Education, made the announcement on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at the Karene Civic Day Series in Kamakwei, citing Sierra Leone Roads Authority progress reports.The Lohindi Bridge on the Kalangba-Gbendembu corridor is one of the projects that is nearing completion. Minister Bah stated that the Lohindi structure has been decked and is now in the concrete curing phase, which…