Author: gleanernewspaper
President Julius Maada Bio proclaimed a “National Emergency on Drug and Substance Abuse” in a historic speech to the nation, vowing to combat the growing epidemic of synthetic drugs, especially the lethal Kush, which has been wreaking havoc on Sierra Leone’s youth. President Bio claimed that drug and substance abuse are gravely endangering society and that they are having a disastrous effect on the country. He declared that “Enough Is Enough”. He demanded immediate action to address this crisis, highlighting the rise in Kush usage and the subsequent decline in the well-being of the country’s youth. The President stated that…
In a strategic move to support President Bio’s Government’s Big Five Projects, the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) recently engaged COVEC West Africa Limited, a Chinese Construction and Engineering Company, to construct an ultra-modern medical facility and student hostels. The Wednesday, 3rd April 2024 meeting saw the NASSIT Director General, Mohamed Fuaad Daboh, welcoming the delegation and emphasising NASSIT’s commitment to contributing to the Government’s flagship programs. Director General Daboh highlighted NASSIT’s role as a statutory public Trust responsible for administering Sierra Leone’s National Pension Scheme. He expressed his dedication to establishing partnerships to support the construction of…
Recent insults, intimidation, attacks, and threats against journalist Amadu Lamrana Bah have alarmed the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), primarily from people who are thought to be government employees and supporters of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP). The press release from the Journalists umbrella body said, “Bah, recognised in March 2024 as ‘Journalist of the Year 2023’ by SLAJ, has consistently spoken truth to power and held public officials to account for years, regardless of the government in power.” Following his repeated questions about the opportunity costs of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio’s international lectures and…
Craig Dean Sierra Rutile, a mineral sands company, faces a takeover bid from PRM Services LLC, owned by Craig Dean. The offer, priced at $0.095 per share, has met resistance from Sierra Rutile’s board of directors, who have deemed it inadequate and opportunistic. In a statement released to shareholders, Sierra Rutile’s Directors urged them not to take any action regarding the takeover bid. They believe the offer needs to reflect the company’s value, especially considering upcoming value catalysts such as the Sembehun DFS. The Board also noted that PRM’s actions indicate a desire for control without offering a fair premium…
Foday Mansaray, Petroleum Directorate of Sierra Leone (PDSL) The Petroleum Directorate of Sierra Leone (PDSL) has announced a strategic alliance with African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy, which will occur from November 4–8, 2024. With this partnership, Sierra Leone’s energy sector achieves a significant milestone that underscores its commitment to forging international alliances and its enormous potential in the oil and gas sector. After its fifth licensing round ended in October 2023, with 56 blocks made available and many applications from major industry players, Sierra Leone is now concentrating on stepping up its exploration efforts to find more…
A group photo of stakeholders at the UNDP draft CPD consultations.UNDP Sierra Leone /Desmonda Aminata Cole The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sierra Leone recently conducted validation consultations with the Government and various stakeholders regarding its draft Country Programme Document (CPD) for 2025-2030. This collaborative effort is significant in ensuring the CPD aligns with the nation’s priorities and development goals. The consultations serve as a platform for inclusive dialogue, allowing for a comprehensive review and refinement of the proposed strategies and objectives within the CPD. The UNDP’s commitment to engaging local partners reflects its dedication to promoting sustainable development…
Ibrahim Sorie Kamara, Senior Commissioner of the Domestic Tax Department The National Revenue Authority (NRA) and the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes, on Wednesday, 27th March 2024, held a transformative seminar and the launch of the Sierra Leone induction program since its membership in May 2023 at the Freetown City Council. The conference aims to promote transparency and accountability through increased tax awareness. The event brought together diverse groups of government officials, tax experts, legal practitioners, financial institutions, tax advisors, Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), as well as members of the public, to discuss…
The Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA) proudly announces the commencement of its first seafarer’s training program since 1975. This historic initiative marks a significant milestone in our nation’s maritime industry and underscores our commitment to fostering excellence in marine education and training. To revitalise Sierra Leone’s naval workforce and elevate standards within the industry, the seafarer’s training program will equip aspiring seafarers with the essential skills, knowledge, and certifications required to excel in the global maritime sector. Participants will undergo comprehensive training in various maritime disciplines, including navigation, seamanship, safety protocols, and maritime law. The launch of this training program…
By Fatmata BJ Samura The Institute for Development (IFD), in partnership with UK International Development and Leh Wi Lan, recently held a Research Dissemination event at the New Brookfields Hotel in Sierra Leone. The event aims to address the issues of violence and inclusion in schools, with critical stakeholders presenting their findings and recommendations. The program began with remarks from chairpersons and a representative of the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Schools Education (MBSSE). Madam Rebecca Freeman, an advocate for children with disabilities, emphasised the importance of addressing violence and promoting inclusion in schools. Osman Kamara, Director of Research…
The Parliament of Sierra Leone debated and ratified two military defence agreements on Tuesday, 26/03/2024, to enhance the country’s security architecture. Parliament ratified the following Agreements: 1. The Military Framework Agreement Between The Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone and the Government of the Republic of Turkiye and (2) A Military Cooperation protocol between the Ministry of Defence of the Arab Republic of Egypt and the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Sierra Leone. They presented the Agreements before ratification, and the Deputy Defence Minister, Colonel Rtd. Muana Brima Massaquoi said these agreements are military cooperation that strengthens…