232News

01/01/2025

30/12/2024

North Korea Journalists Supreme Leader Safe But Still In Hiding

In an address to the public, the Supreme Executive Leader of North Korea Journalists, Thomas Dixon has said that he is safe where he is staying at the moment.

Below is the full address of the Supreme Leader:-

PUBLIC NOTICE

I want to use this opportunity to inform everyone that I am safe where I am staying at the moment

I thank all those who tried to reach out to me and for your prayers and words of consolation and solidarity.

I am still in hiding for the seriousnthreat of the Inspector General of Police William Faya Sellu in a text message: “Thomas,you have crossed the redline.”

His threat came after I critiqued what I believed as the unnecessary use of “orders from above” to keep people in detention.

His threat was further compounded by a call from the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasrala advising that I should leave my home because the IG told him that he would get me arrested.

Prior to this information, I had not been informed of any report or investigation against me by the IGP.

However, people in my community confirmed that they saw an unidentified black vehicle with some men in the vehicle around the community but could not tell their purpose this past Saturday when the IGP made the threat that I have crossed the redline.

This is the way people in positions of trust have been abusing power in our country for years which have most time cost the lives and destinies of powerless citizens all in the name of “orders from above.”

The threat of the IG that I have crossed the redline which figuratively can be interpreted as the point of no return is still having a psychological effect on me and my family.

Whereas I am safe where I am, I want to state that I still feel unsecured to practice my craft as a journalist in an environment full of threats against media practitioners to the point that the IG could text, “Thomas, you have crossed the redline.”

Few months back, after I got harassed and threatened by boys close to the First Lady of the country because I gave my view on statement she made, my bag containing my computer, passport and money got missing. I reported the matter to the police but uptill now there has been no head way.

Since then, I have been very careful about moving around because I noticed that I have been frequently monitored by some people in authority.

It is the responsibility of Inspector General of Police to ensure that every citizen is safe but if he turns out to be making existential threats against those he should protect then *it appears* we are not safe and secured.

Thank You All !!!

Thomas Dixon
Journalist

29/12/2024

North Korea Journalists Call on Government and Police to Produce Supreme Leader Thomas Dixon

The North Korea Journalists express deep concern over the mysterious disappearance of our Supreme Leader, Thomas Dixon. It has been nearly 24 hours since his sudden disappearance, following threats of arrest by the Inspector General of Police (IGP). This development occurred after Mr. Dixon posted a critical statement about the IGP on Facebook.

As Deputy Supreme Leader, I urgently call on the Government of Sierra Leone and the Sierra Leone Police to immediately account for the whereabouts of Thomas Dixon. This situation is reminiscent of the actions of former Chief Minister David Francis, who used the Sierra Leone Police to arrest journalist Sallieu Tejan Jalloh over a mere text message aimed at verifying corruption allegations.

The North Korea Journalists is a collective of radical and critical journalists dedicated to holding the government accountable and prioritizing the interests of Sierra Leone and its people.

While I condemn IGP Faya Sellu for undermining freedom of expression, I strongly urge the government and the Sierra Leone Police to produce Thomas Dixon without delay. This pattern of intimidating journalists for simply carrying out their duties must end immediately.

Signed:
Kandeh Sesay (Salone Malema)
Deputy Supreme Leader
North Korea Journalists

17/12/2024

Miss Kailahun: Janet Mumbgay Zizer Eye Miss Ecofest 2024 Crown

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Jansuccess Network-Sierra Leone, a passionate media practitioner from Media One Centre and Miss Kailahun 2024, Janet Mumgbay Zizer, has set her eyes on the Miss Ecofest 2024 crown.
The pageant, which is scheduled for this Saturday, December 20, 2024, at the Africell Building beachfront in Lumley, Freetown, offers a grand prize of NLE 50,000 and a return trip to Dubai.
Janet’s journey to the stage is fueled by her commitment to gender activism which she dedicated her efforts to empowering women and girls, challenging societal barriers, and advocating for gender equality through her organisation. Her work focuses on enabling young women to realize their full potential, free from the constraints of traditional norms.
Janet Mumgbay Zizer born and raised in the picturesque town of Pendembu in Kailahun District, Eastern Sierra Leone, Janet’s roots reflect her deep connection to the natural beauty and culture of her homeland. She holds a degree in Political Science from the historic Fourah Bay College and has built a career in broadcast journalism at Star TV in Freetown, where she amplifies the voices of marginalized women and girls through her platform.
As the current Miss Kailahun, Janet brings her elegance, confidence, and charisma to the Miss Ecofest stage. Her mission is to promote Sierra Leone’s rich culture and heritage while advocating for gender inclusivity and national unity. Under this year’s theme, “Illumination,” she aims to inspire Sierra Leoneans to shine together as one nation as she passionately dedicated to breaking traditional gender roles stereotypes that confine women to domestic responsibilities.
Janet’s don’t hold back and have always dreamt of becoming a well-recognized beauty queen and TV personality.
“I am competing to share my values, showcase Sierra Leonean stories to Africa and the world, and reaffirm the power of advocacy through representation,” she stated.
According to the organizers, the winner of Miss Ecofest 2024 will receive not only the cash prize and Dubai trip but also additional rewards from various sponsors. Janet’s supporters are confident that her experience, dedication, and determination to empower women will help her secure the crown and the grand prize.
As Janet takes the stage, she embodies the spirit of a new generation of Sierra Leonean women, striving for progress, unity, and empowerment with her slogan Beauty with Versatility represents her ability to how she has been able to delve into different tasks in life as a philanthropist, a broadcaster and beauty queen.
Join her as she embarks on this groundbreaking journey in Miss EcoFest 2024.

27/11/2024

TEC, COL Commence Capacity Building Workshop

232news.com -
The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) in collaboration with Commonwealth of Learning (COL) have commenced a two-day capacity building workshop for Higher Education Institutions and respective stakeholders for online facilitation including the use of artificial intelligence and inclusive technologies for Open and Distance Learning (ODL)

In his opening remarks, the Chairperson of the Workshop Dr. Issa Fofanah welcomed participants at the session and expressed his excitement for the scheduled topics that would be discussed.

He admonished respective stakeholders to make meaningful contributions during the workshop as the topics highlighted are key to the development of education in Sierra Leone.

While delivering his statement, the Chairman of TEC, Professor A.M Alghali welcomed participants at the workshop.

He expressed that he is delighted to see that bright minds have gathered united by shared interest to harness the power of artificial intelligence to innovate, empower, and transform teaching and learning methods and skills acquisitions.

Professor Alghali pointed out that, the integration of artificial intelligence and inclusive technologies into open and distance learning (ODL) present an unparalleled opportunity to address challenges in accessibility, quality, and inclusivity in higher education.

The Chairman went on to explain the importance of the workshop.

“The workshop is a testament to the shared community to building a resilient and innovative education sector in Sierra Leone, one that aligns with global trends and caters to the diverse needs of learners in the country and region” the Chairman expressed.

In her keynote address, the Minister of Technical and Higher Education Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie noted that the workshop was timely as the deliberations have the potential to revolutionalise education in Sierra Leone.

“Online facilitation, artificial intelligence, inclusive technologies into for online and distance learning are need within the educational space in Sierra Leone” she noted

The Minister added that Sierra Leone is at a pivotal and that the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education has committed itself to a vision for education that is inclusive, equitable, and transformative.

Presentation on artificial intelligence and curriculum development were presented by various stakeholders.

12/11/2024

Blessed happy birthday Dr. Manal Ghazzawi, Specialist Pharmacist, CEO CitiGlobe Ltd. And Prophetess Admire Samai of Media One Center.
Count not the candles…see the lights they give. Count not the years, but the life you live. Wishing you a wonderful time ahead. Happy birthday 🎂 🥳 🎉 🎈 🎁 🎊

05/11/2024

Sky Bank Grows Profit By 207%, Unveils New Brand Identity
232news - Skye Bank (SL) Limited has announced its audited results for the 2023 financial year ended December 31, 2023 recording an impressive year-on-year growth in all its performance metrics. The results were presented to the Bank’s shareholders at the Bank’s Annual General Meeting held recently. The Key highlights of the Bank’s performance are as follows:
Profit before Tax improved significantly year-on-year by 207%, growing from SLe18.7million in 2022 to SLe57.4 million in the 2023 financial year.
Revenue from commission and fees grew by 188%, reaching SLe47.4 million in 2023 as against SLe16.5 million recorded in the previous year. This is due largely due to increase in transaction volumes occasioned by the increasing confidence in the bank’s operational efficiency and capabilities by customers.
In a similar fashion, the bank's total net revenue rose by 107% to SLe158.1 in 2023 financial year when compared to SLe76.5 million reported in 2022, indicating strong overall performance.
Furthermore, the bank's total assets grew from SLe571.9 million in 2022 to SLe1,077.9 million in 2023 representing 88% growth year-on-year. Investments in Government Securities increased by 113% over the previous financial year growing from SLe112.9 million in 2022 to SLe240.7 million in the 2023 financial year.
Loans and Advances grew by 13% reaching SLe185.8 million in 2023 from the SLe 164.3 million recorded in the previous financial year. Cash and Cash equivalents experienced a remarkable growth of 116% from SLe254.2 million in 2022 to SLe549.7 million recorded in the financial year.
Customer deposits also witnessed an impressive growth of 80% attaining an all-time high of SLe747.6 million during the financial year.
In the course of the same year, Skye Bank expanded its reach with the opening a new branch at Station Road Makeni in February 2024 and has also commissioned the construction of a new branch in Waterloo, which is expected to be operational in December 2024.
Skye Bank’s financial report for 2023 reflects a resilient and thriving institution, poised for continued success and contributions to the financial landscape of Sierra Leone
The bank has continued to invest in information technology infrastructure and have introduced an array of electronic banking (E-Banking) products which include corporate and retail Internet banking, Mastercard Debit Cards, and mobile banking apps. These products have continued to enrich customer experience and is in support of the Bank of Sierra Leone's cashless and financial inclusion policy.
Also, sign-posting a significant and heart-warming development, the bank has formally unveiled its new brand name and logo. The Bank’s brand name has changed from SKYE Bank (SL) Ltd to SKY Bank Sierra Leone Ltd under a new logo. This move is in a strategic alignment with the identity of its parent company; Sky Capital and Financial Allied International Ltd (a member of SIFAX Group of Companies.
According to the Managing Director, Mr. Fasasi Adeniye, ‘The Bank’s new brand in more than just a name and logo, it is a promise to all stakeholders, a reflection of who we are and a testament to our values and our vision for the future’. The new brand has received all the requisite approvals from the Bank of Sierra Leone.

01/11/2024

Make it a to remembered ✨️

29/10/2024

Wishing you a very Happy Birthday Samantha Jalloh! 🎂 🥳 🎉 🎈 🎁

May life lead you to great happiness, success, and hope that all your wishes come true!

21/10/2024

Last Friday, Africell Sierra Leone officially unveiled the jerseys for both its men’s and women’s teams as they gear up for their annual inter-departmental football competition🏆⚽️.

This exciting tournament is all about boosting team spirit in the workplace, keeping the energy high, and of course, a little friendly rivalry 😉🎉.

The competition started yesterday, and the journey to the finals is already heating up🔥.
Who will emerge victorious❓
Stay tuned for updates and join Sierra Leone in cheering on their teams as they give it their all on the field 🥳.



Africell Sierra Leone

28/09/2024

CCSL Holds Successful Elections During 9th Triennial General Assembly

By Sahr Ibrahim Komba

The Council of Churches Sierra Leone (CCSL) successfully conducted its executive elections during the 9th Triennial General Assembly on Saturday, September 19, 2024, at the Bank Complex in Freetown. The elections ushered in new leadership for the council, which will steer its activities for the next three years.
The newly elected executive members are:
President: Rev. Henry A. Samuels
1st Vice President: Bishop John M. Pessima
2nd Vice President: Mrs. Sento Conteh
Treasurer: Mr. Christian M. Kamara
Ex-Officio: Bishop Magnus Bendu
The CCSL, which traces its origins to the Denominational Corporation Conference of 1912, was founded under the leadership of the Anglican Bishop of Sierra Leone and other key church leaders. This initiative led to the establishment of the United Christian Council in 1924, which later evolved into the CCSL. Over the past century, the organization has worked beyond religious and national boundaries, closely engaging with communities across rural and urban Sierra Leone. Its programs have significantly contributed to the nation’s development, positioning the CCSL as a vital player in both the country's religious and civic spheres.
This year’s General Assembly also marked the centennial celebration of the CCSL, commemorating 100 years of service to Sierra Leone. The assembly provided an opportunity to reflect on the council’s century-long achievements and renew its commitment to the church and the broader community.
The celebrations continued on Sunday with a Thanksgiving service, where church leaders and dignitaries gathered to give thanks for God’s guidance over the CCSL’s 100-year history. During the service, CCSL General Secretary Mrs. Kezia Kargbo highlighted the significance of the centennial celebration, describing it as a testament to God’s faithfulness to the church and the ecumenical movement in Sierra Leone.
Mrs. Kargbo acknowledged the CCSL’s many accomplishments but stressed the importance of continuing the work of building a “strong, united, and transformative” church. She encouraged delegates and members to ensure that the assembly remains a memorable and impactful experience.
Among the dignitaries present were government ministers and representatives from the Freetown City Council, further underscoring the event’s importance.
The 9th Triennial General Assembly and the elections of the new executive marked a significant milestone for the CCSL, as the council looks forward to continuing its mission of service and leadership in the years to come.

28/09/2024

Sierra Leone Embassy In Dakar Bids Farewell To Team Robotic

By Ishmael Bayoh
Information Attachè- Sierra Leone Embassy Dakar, Senegal
+221775996486

The Sierra Leone Embassy in Dakar, Senegal on Saturday 21 September 2024 bade farewell to the Sierra Leone team that will be participating at the 2024 FIRST GLOBAL Challenge in Athens, Greece from September 26-29.

Team Sierra Leone will be joining other youth from 190+ nations uniting in pursuit of global understanding and STEM education with this year’s theme “Feeding the Future”. This theme focuses on addressing global food security and sustainable agriculture through robotics and innovation. The theme also aligns with His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio’s flagship program on agriculture which is ‘feed Salone’.

The 7 man Robotic team comprising five students and two mentors were in Dakar for their visa process which was facilitated by the Sierra Leone Embassy.

The National Commission for Children in Sierra Leone have been supporting the involvement of these children in innovation over the years and during their previous participations in the FIRST GLOBAL challenge.

In 2019, the Children Commission got the children to showcase their innovative skills at a children’s summit in Freetown, and established 25 STEM clubs in various schools in Freetown, Bo, and Makeni in collaboration with Projects 1835 amongst others done in a bid to enhance child participation and to empower the next generation with the tools of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to unlock a world of possibilities.

The theme lead, Susan Kargbo from the National Commission for Children thanked the Embassy for facilitating the team’s visa processes and the hospitality accorded them. She also thanked President Bio for his continued support to the robotic team’s participation for the sixth consecutive time now. She said the team received their kits in August last month to get them prepared with the support from the National Commission for Children.

Bidding them farewell at the Embassy’s Conference Hall, the Minister, Counsellor /Head of Chancery, Mrs. Augusta Akibo- Jones said with the demonstration done by the team, they were bound to make Sierra Leone proud at the challenge. She also said this year’s theme resonated with President Bio’s agenda of feed salone for which the team should capitalize on finding innovative ways of feeding the future. The Second Secretary, Mrs. Aminata Kargbo also wished the team success in Athens.

Teams from every nation are required to build and program a robot to compete. Teams work together to complete tasks in a game themed around one of the greatest challenges facing the planet in an effort to foster understanding and cooperation among the youth of the world as they use their abilities to solve the world’s problems.

28/09/2024

“If a police officer could meet a death like this, what about us ordinary civilians?” Bishop Thomas Wilson

By Donald Theo-Harding

On Monday, September 1st, 2024, the serene village of Hastings in the Western Rural District of Freetown was shattered by the shocking discovery of Superintendent Adeyemi Coker’s lifeless body. Found in a hedge near his home, Coker’s death has since sparked concern, outrage, and speculation. The seasoned police officer, aged 56, received a call at around 9:00 PM the previous night, prompting him to leave his house. He never returned.
An autopsy confirmed what many feared: Superintendent Coker was strangled. MANUAL STRANULATION the report said. But beyond this revelation, progress in the investigation has been frustratingly slow. Weeks have passed, and the police have yet to release further updates on who might be responsible for this tragic death.
At his funeral on Sunday, September 22nd, at the St. Thomas the Hastings Village Church, emotions ran high. The somber atmosphere was punctuated by a passionate address from the Bishop of the Anglican Church, Bishop A.I. Wilson who did not mince his words. "If a police officer could meet a death like this, what about us ordinary civilians?" the Bishop asked the grieving crowd. He urged the police to expedite the investigation, especially by tracing the mysterious call that lured Superintendent Coker from his home. "What is so difficult about that?" he questioned, echoing the frustrations of many.
The Bishop’s call to action underscored a broader sense of unease in the community. Superintendent Coker had served the Sierra Leone Police for 35 years, a long and dedicated career that spanned various branches of the force. His professionalism earned him respect, making his violent death all the more shocking. However, the funeral was marked by a glaring absence of his police colleagues. Despite his decades of service, only a few officers were present at the burial, and none attended the vigil service where tributes to fallen officers are usually offered.
This lack of police presence at the funeral did not go unnoticed. Many in the crowd whispered their dismay. Why did the institution he had served so faithfully fail to honor him in death? Why had the investigation into his murder stalled? These questions lingered, alongside the most pressing one: Who killed Superintendent Adeyemi Coker?
In contrast to the police's muted presence, the Diocesan Men’s Union (DMU) — the church organization where Coker served as a Past President - was highly visible throughout the service. The DMU, an organization known for its commitment to community and spiritual leadership, filled the void left by the absent officers, ensuring their fallen member was not forgotten.
As mourners bid farewell to Superintendent Coker, the community remained haunted by the unresolved mystery. Was his murder linked to his work as a high-ranking officer, or was it something more personal? Why had the investigation seemingly stalled? The silence from the police force has only fueled speculation, leading to growing frustration among residents.
For now, Hastings village, and indeed the entire country, is left grappling with a chilling reality: If a man of the law, a leader in his community, could be killed so brutally, what does that say about the safety of ordinary citizens? Superintendent Coker's death has become a symbol of the growing insecurity that many fear may go unchecked, leaving more questions than answers.
Until the mystery is solved, Superintendent Adeyemi Coker’s name will be synonymous with the haunting question: Who killed him, and why?
The nation, his family, and his colleagues deserve answers.

28/09/2024

Journalists Charting the way forward: New constitution for an inclusive and stronger SLAJ

By Janet Mumgbay Zizer

As the Chairman of the event the Head of Amadiyya Muslim Jamat, Musa Mewa ESQ. opened with a profound reminder from the Holy Qur'an, Chapter 49, Verse 6, emphasizing the importance of truthfulness in journalism. The verse stresses that believers must carefully verify news from ungodly sources to avoid unwitting harm to others.
Chairing the session as Amir-ul-mo'minìn (Leader of the Believers), Amir Musa Mewa urged journalists to diligently investigate facts before publication. He highlighted the critical responsibility of journalists to ascertain the truth behind any news they receive, cautioning that failure to do so could lead to regret and potential harm to individuals and communities.
His remarks resonated with the attendees, reflecting the values of justice and integrity upheld by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. The session served as a poignant reminder of the vital role journalists play in society and the ethical obligations that come with their profession.
In her statement, the Bar Association President Madam Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara urged journalists to seek both sides of a story before publication. She emphasized the importance of addressing current issues in journalism and called for unity among journalists. Gento-Kamara reminded attendees of the core principles of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), which focus on amplifying the voices of the marginalized and promoting democracy in the field.
In his keynote address, Hon. Justice A.M. Bangurah of the Supreme Court emphasized the critical role of journalism in fostering democracy and the necessity for a new constitution that promotes inclusivity and accountability within the association.
Justice Bangurah acknowledged the evolving media landscape, highlighting the challenges posed by digital technology, economic pressures, and the safety of journalists. He urged SLAJ to adapt its constitution to address these issues, ensuring it reflects the values of responsible journalism while remaining flexible to future developments.
The address underscored the importance of inclusivity, advocating for equal opportunities for all journalists, particularly women and young professionals. Justice Bangurah called for mechanisms that empower diverse voices within SLAJ, stressing that an inclusive association is vital for a stronger media landscape.
He also highlighted the need for accountability and good governance, urging the establishment of clear guidelines for leadership and ethical standards. “The new constitution should reaffirm SLAJ's commitment to defending press freedom and providing legal protections for journalists facing challenges in their work.” He added.
Justice Bangurah concluded by encouraging members to engage thoughtfully in the constitutional drafting process, reminding them that the decisions made today will shape the future of journalism in Sierra Leone. He expressed confidence that a well-crafted constitution would serve as a foundation for a more robust and inclusive SLAJ, ultimately strengthening democracy in the nation.

28/09/2024

Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara Urges Journalists to Embrace Inclusivity at SLAJ AGM

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) convened its Annual General Meeting on September 26-28, 2024 at the Njala venue on Torwama Road, Bo, gathering over 600 journalists from across the nation. The meeting, themed “Charting the Way Forward: New Constitution for an Inclusive and Stronger SLAJ,” served as a pivotal moment for reflecting on the future of journalism in Sierra Leone.
Mrs. Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), addressed attendees with a powerful message emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience in the face of contemporary challenges. She commended SLAJ's leadership for organizing such a significant event and called for collective action to address the pressing issues facing the media landscape today.
"In times of division and misinformation, we must ask ourselves not what is convenient, but what is just, necessary, and right for the preservation of truth and democracy," Gento-Kamara stated, highlighting the urgency of creating a new constitution for SLAJ.
The President outlined several constitutional challenges that the association must confront, including the need for inclusivity, the defense of press freedom, the evolution of membership criteria in the digital age, and the establishment of ethical accountability among journalists. Gento-Kamara stressed that inclusivity is critical for the growth and integrity of SLAJ, ensuring that all voices—whether from urban or rural journalists, and traditional or digital media—are heard.
She further emphasized the role of a new constitution as a foundational element that will not only address current challenges but also prepare SLAJ for future complexities. “A strong constitution will protect press freedom, which is the sacred element of this association. It is essential for informing the public, holding leaders accountable, and safeguarding justice,” she added.
As the media industry undergoes rapid transformation due to social media and digital platforms, Gento-Kamara urged attendees to consider how SLAJ can lead the way in promoting ethical journalism. She reaffirmed the legal profession’s support for journalists, highlighting the critical balance between freedom of expression and responsible journalism.
In closing, she encouraged SLAJ members to envision a stronger, more unified association that not only serves its members but also fortifies the fabric of Sierra Leonean society. “The decisions you make today will shape the future of journalism and democracy in this nation,” she concluded.
The meeting underscored the vital role of the press in Sierra Leone and reaffirmed the commitment of journalists to uphold the values of truth and accountability in their work.

28/09/2024

News Update: HRCSL Chairperson Speaks At SLAJ AGM

By HRCSL Communications Team

Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone, Mrs. Patricia Narsu Ndanema on Friday 27th September attended the opening ceremony of the 53rd Annual General Meeting of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) at Njala Venue, Bo City.
In her brief statement, Mrs. Ndanema acknowledged the enduring collaboration between the Commission and the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists.
She said the Commission deeply value its partnership with the Association, recognising the link between journalism and the enjoyment of civil and political rights, among others.
She stated that the theme for this year’s AGM "Charting the way forward: New Constitution for an Inclusive and Stronger SLAJ", speaks to the association's commitment towards progress while taking into consideration a full-blown thought of inclusivity.
She noted that a new Constitution should not merely be a collection of words but strategic roadmap for a more robust and inclusive SLAJ.
The HRCSL Chairperson noted that the work of journalists has spurred actions by many institutions including the Commission in some of its interventions.
"During the next two days of the AGM, I encourage you to foster collaboration, open communication and welcome a variety of viewpoints to craft a constitution that empowers and uplifts all members," she urged.

https://www.facebook.com/HRCSL/