Author: gleanernewspaper
Senior officials from Sierra Leone’s National Communications Authority (NATCA) and the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation recently visited Conakry, Guinea, to engage with their counterparts from Guinea’s Regulatory Authority for Posts and Telecommunications (ARPT) and the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and the Digital Economy (MPTEN). The discussions centred on finalizing technical details for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two nations. The MoU aims to enhance cooperation in critical areas, including fibre optic interconnection, combating cybercrime, and the implementation of a “Free-Roaming” initiative. Guinea’s Secretary General of MPTEN emphasized the importance of this partnership for regional technological growth,…
On 29 August 2024, the Government of Sierra Leone and the European Union signed a landmark Financing Agreement for the “Nature Nourishes” Programme. This agreement represents a significant step forward in the collaborative efforts between the EU and Sierra Leone to promote environmental protection and human development across the nation. In line with the Global Gateway strategy of the EU, “Nature Nourishes” also focuses on providing modern quality education for all children and youths, as well as enhancing teachers’ competencies and skills. “Nature Nourishes” is a EUR 90 million EU-funded programme, focusing on enhancing Sierra Leone’s resilience against internal and…
The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Communications, Technology and Innovation, has signed a USD$50 million agreement with China National Technical Import & Export Corporation for the SMART Sierra Leone Project. The signing took place on the margins of the FOCAC Summit in Beijing, marking a significant step forward in Sierra Leone’s digital transformation efforts. During the signing ceremony, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio highlighted the three main objectives of the SMART Sierra Leone Project: expanding internet connectivity to over 400,000 previously unconnected citizens, establishing national data centres to manage and protect sovereign data, and enhancing security…
Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee in the Parliament of Sierra Leone, who doubles as the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, on Monday 2nd September 2024, accorded the Northern Bureau Chief for the Sierra Leone News Agency (SLENA) and senior correspondent for the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Cooperation (SLBC) – Hassan Bruz, a standing ovation. This is in recognition of his steadfastness in the field of journalism and dedicated service to the People of Sierra Leone, and Port Loko District in particular. The Honorable Deputy Speaker, who is also a veteran Member of Parliament, made the accord at the Port Loko District…
By Abu Bakarr Kargbo in Beijing Top officials of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) highlighted the deepening economic cooperation between China and African countries, underscoring the significant strides made in fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and promoting sustainable development across the continent. Lin Honghong, Deputy Director General of the Department of International Relations of CCPIT, emphasized the longstanding friendship and strategic guidance that has underpinned the fruitful collaboration between China and Africa. According to Lin, the foreign direct investment from China to Africa surged to an impressive $40 billion in 2023, with Chinese companies creating over…
A tribunal set up by President Julius Maada Bio’s administration has released its findings on the suspended Auditor-General, Mrs Lara Taylor-Pearce, and her Deputy, Mr Tamba Momoh. The investigation concluded that both officials engaged in “selective reporting” while auditing. According to the report, Mrs. Taylor-Pearce and Mr. Momoh intentionally halted the Freetown City Council’s auditing process for projects funded by the Sierra Leone government. This decision appeared to be influenced by a desire to protect the Mayor of Freetown City Council’s interests, despite serious concerns the audit team leader raised. By failing to complete the audit, they misrepresented the council’s…
Rakesh Gurbani (Roky) In a distressing revelation, the leadership of Shona Enterprises, located at No. 31, Ecowas Street, Freetown, Sierra Leone, is facing serious allegations of modern-day slavery and the mistreatment of Indian employees. The company’s Directors, Rakesh Gurbani (commonly known as Roky), Vishal Dhanwani, and Shona Carman, have come under scrutiny, as reports surface detailing the harrowing experiences of workers under their management. One particularly alarming incident involved an employee, who, overwhelmed by unbearable working conditions, attempted to escape to India. However, his desperate flight was thwarted when he was apprehended in Kambia. This incident underscores the grim reality…
The principle of objectivity is fundamental to journalism, especially when dealing with allegations against individuals, institutions, or businesses. Attempting to present all sides of a story is more than just an exercise in fairness; it is critical for maintaining the media’s integrity and fostering public trust. The Indian news outlet OpIndia’s recent claims against Suresh Vatnani, the proprietor of S.V. Electricals at 73 B, Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown, serve as a compelling case study emphasizing the importance of balanced reporting. The allegations stemmed from Arpit Kumar Pandey, who allegedly obtained a job with S.V. Electricals in Sierra Leone through…
Sierra Leone women were engaged with the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, in partnership with the United Nations Foundation, at an organized Town Hall meeting aimed at designing a pathway for lasting peace and national cohesion in the country. Political leaders, Paramount Chiefs, youth groups, religious leaders, and civil society activists, among others, were in attendance at the New Brookfields Hotel. In conflict situations, women and children are the most vulnerable to violence and abuse. Conversations around peace, therefore, cannot happen successfully without their active participation. The latest Town Hall showcased brilliance from exceptional women, who proffered solutions to…
In a significant development for the southern city of Bo, Africell Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the Bo City Council, has completed the beautification of the New London roundabout. This initiative marks a major step forward in the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance its infrastructure and aesthetics. The beautification project was officially commissioned during a ceremony attended by key stakeholders, including Africell’s Southeast Manager, Khalil Fawaz. Speaking at the event, Fawaz reaffirmed the telecom giant’s commitment to supporting local communities and municipal efforts across the country. “It is not surprising to see Africell joining hands with communities and local governments…