The U.N. General Assembly has approved a comprehensive plan to unite divided nations in addressing 21st-century challenges such as climate change, artificial intelligence, conflict, and growing inequality. Dubbed the “Pact for the Future,” this 42-page document calls on leaders of the 193 member nations to transform promises into impactful actions for the world’s over 8…
On September 13, 2024, Sierra Leone’s Arms and Ammunition Commission, in partnership with the Small Arms Survey, officially validated the National Action Plan (NAP) on Weapons and Ammunition Management. The event, held at Swiss Hotel in Freetown, marks a major step in strengthening the country’s security through improved control of weapons. The NAP, developed since…
Indian exporters are facing uncertainty as the mpox outbreak threatens trade with Africa, a key market for Indian goods, particularly crude oil and pharmaceuticals, reports Maritime Gateway. Though the spread is currently contained, exporters remain cautious about potential escalation. Ajay Sahai, Director General of FIEO, emphasized the need for vigilance, noting that there have been…
Recent scrutiny by the Public Accounts Committee has highlighted concerns over Sierra Leone Commercial Bank’s (SLCB) loan practices, particularly regarding politically exposed persons (PEPs). An audit revealed loans totaling SLE 41,448,000 disbursed to PEPs by December 31, 2022, without clear policies in place. In response, Victor Thomas Biandoma, Esq., SLCB’s Director of Corporate Affairs, defended…
Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr has been featured in Forbes’ inaugural list of 50 Sustainability Leaders. The list celebrates global figures from diverse fields, including entrepreneurship, science, and activism, who are making significant strides in addressing the climate crisis. Expressing her gratitude, Aki-Sawyerr shared on social media, “I am truly honored to be named in Forbes’ inaugural…
A Nigerian court has convicted 125 Boko Haram militants and financiers on various terrorism-related charges. The Attorney General’s office reported that the charges included terrorism, financing terrorism, providing material support, and crimes related to the International Criminal Court (ICC). The two-day mass trial was overseen by five Federal High Court judges at a military detention…
The Africa Investment Forum 2024 Market Days in Rabat, Morocco, concluded with $29.2 billion in new investor commitments after three days of intense boardroom discussions. The event, chaired by African Development Bank (AfDB) President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, underscored Africa’s growing appeal for transformative investments. Participation soared to 2,300 investors and delegates from 83 countries, a…
By: James Kamara-Manneh The Budget Advocacy Network (BAN) has engaged government representatives, media practitioners, persons with disabilities, women and other vulnerable groups as part of efforts to influence Sierra Leone’s 2027 national budget. The engagement, held in Freetown under BAN’s “Making Tax Work for Women” project, focused on identifying the needs and priorities of marginalized,…
Madam Fatoumata Jallow Tambajang, former Gambian Vice President and head of the ECOWAS, African Union, and Commonwealth Secretariat Facilitation Mission, has stressed the need for women’s economic empowerment as key to peace and security in Sierra Leone and beyond. Speaking at the Open Day on Gender, Women, Youth, Peace, and Security at Bintumani Hotel, Freetown,…
Ing. Alfred Jalil Momodu, Director General of the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), has announced a major step forward in the country’s infrastructure development with a new financing agreement to reconstruct the Mabang-Moyamba-Gbangbatoke Junction Road. The 86-kilometre project, expected to start soon, will take two years to complete, followed by a one-year defect liability period….