Heritage Newspaper - Sierra Leone

24/05/2025

23/05/2024

PRA BOSS REFUTES FUEL PRICE INCREASE SPECULATION, ASSURES PUBLIC OF STABILITY

By: Ibrahim J. Conteh

In a move to address the ongoing fuel saga, Dr. Brima Baluwa Koroma, the Executive Chairman of the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA), has moved to reassure the public, stating there is no need for undue concern. Speaking at the PRA office in Freetown, Chairman Baluwa announced that 15 metric tonnes of fuel are set to be offloaded over the weekends.

This announcement comes as a welcome relief amid the recent fuel shortages affecting various sectors. Chairman Baluwa emphasized that NP and Leone Oil are presently the sole oil marketers with available fuel stocks, urging the public to exercise patience as the new consignment is processed and made available in the next day or two. "We acknowledge the frustration caused by the fuel shortages," Chairman Baluwa stated, "but we anticipate a substantial delivery that will significantly alleviate the situation."

In addition to the impending 15 metric tonnes of fuel, another oil marketer, Amanita, is expected to deliver an additional 3 metric tonnes, bringing the total to 18 metric tonnes. This quantity is anticipated to sufficiently meet public demand until the next scheduled restock.

Addressing concerns regarding storage capacity, Chairman Koroma disclosed that Connex one of the Oil Marketer has constructed a 15,000 metric tonne storage facility, valued at over 7 million dollars. Though the facility is yet to be commissioned, it signifies a substantial enhancement in the country's fuel storage capabilities.

Furthermore, Dr. Baluwa urged oil marketers to adhere strictly to their licensing obligations and ensure full compliance in their service to the public. "It is imperative for all stakeholders to fulfill their responsibilities to maintain a consistent fuel supply," he stressed. He also revealed that penalties have been imposed on oil marketers found guilty of hoarding fuel, calling upon the media and civil society organizations to aid the PRA in combating fuel hoarding.

Regarding diesel availability, He reassured the public of an ample supply in the country. Responding to queries regarding potential pump price increases, the PRA Executive Chairman confirmed that there would be no immediate increase in the pump price, providing additional reassurance and dispelling rumors of an impending increase.

Addressing the recent strike action by fuel tanker operators due to increased toll gate charges, He recounted how the PRA, under his leadership and with the intervention of the Honorable Vice President, successfully resolved the issue. Negotiations with oil marketers and the management of the China Railway Seventh Group ensured uninterrupted fuel transportation.

Dr. Brima Baluwa's statements have provided much-needed clarity and reassurance regarding the current fuel situation. With substantial fuel deliveries and improved storage facilities, the public can anticipate a more stable fuel supply in the days ahead.

21/05/2024

Health Alert Sierra Leone Empowers Media on Health Finance Reporting

By: Ibrahim J Conteh

Health Alert Sierra Leone, a right based civil society organization dedicated to health advocacy, conducted a day’s training on Friday, May 18th, 2024. Held at the Ramzy Building at Liverpool Street in Freetown, the event focused on the theme, "The Role of Media on Health Finance Reporting."

Attended by journalists, reporters, and media practitioners from the print, electronic and social media outlets, the training aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to effectively report on health-related issues, including pandemics.

Giving an overview of the training, Victor Lansana Koroma, the Country Director - Health Alert Sierra Leone underscored the crucial role of the media in health advocacy. He urged journalists to delve into the health sector and report on the critical issues and in raising awareness on health financing and budget allocation.
He emphasizes on the media's role in scrutinizing health budgets and advocating for increased allocation to healthcare. Meeting the Abuja target of allocating 15% of the national budget to health is vital for improving healthcare access and service delivery outcomes in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Aminu Magashi, a renowned Nigerian medical doctor, an Activist and founder/CEO of the Africa Health Budget Network AHBN), joined the session remotely via Zoom. Dr. Aminu emphasized the necessity of robust collaboration between Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the media in health advocacy and reporting. He challenged journalists to take ownership of health reporting, advocating for partnerships with key stakeholders and establishing clear communication channels with policymakers.

Furthermore, Dr. Aminu urged the media to actively engage in discussions surrounding health budgets, tracking allocations, disbursements, and utilization of funds. He underscored the importance of transparency and accountability in health financing and encouraged media-CSO collaboration to enhance healthcare service delivery.

The remote participation of Dr. Aminu, an expert in health financing, added significant value to the training. His insights on the collaboration between Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the media underscored the importance of collective efforts in advocating for transparent and accountable healthcare systems.

In a presentation on domestic revenue mobilization and accountability reporting, Musa Ansumana Soko, Executive Director - WASH-NET, explained the significance of raising funds internally to finance government operations. He hinted at the ongoing concerns regarding health financing and budget allocation for healthcare. He noted that despite efforts, government budgetary allocations to healthcare services remain insufficient. Much of the local revenue is earmarked for wage bill obligations, leaving healthcare underfunded.

He emphasized that domestic revenue mobilization falls short of addressing health issues, citing the burden of debt overhang.
Musa Ansumana Soko highlighted the pivotal role of journalists in advocating for transparency and accountability in healthcare. His presentation on domestic revenue mobilization and accountability reporting further highlighted the media's role as watchdogs in ensuring transparency in healthcare financing.
By scrutinizing the management and delivery of healthcare services, journalists can hold policymakers accountable and advocate for unbiased access to healthcare resources.

The training served as a platform for media professionals to deepen their understanding of health finance reporting and strengthen their capacity to advocate for transparent and accountable healthcare systems in Sierra Leone. As the media continues to play a vital role in shaping public discourse, initiatives like these are essential for fostering informed decision-making and ensuring equitable access to healthcare resources.

21/05/2024

Women’s Forum Network-Sierra Leone Hosts Training on Child Rights Act

By: Ibrahim J. Conteh

The Women's Forum Network Sierra Leone, in partnership with SHELEAD and supported by the African Women’s Development and Communication Network (FEMNET), concluded a one-day training on the current status of the Child Rights Act on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at the Civil Service Training College in Freetown.

The event gathered young people aged 14-17 from all 16 districts across the country, along with key stakeholders and opinion leaders crucial to enhancing children's rights. The Women’s Forum Sierra Leone (WFSL), established as a national women’s umbrella organization, provides a platform for women’s groups to share information, advocate for policy change and addressing issues affecting women's and children's well-being.

The Sierra Leone Child Rights Act of 2007, signed into law on July 13, 2007, was created to promote the rights of children in alignment with the Convention on the Rights of the Child, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1989. However, as new challenges emerge, there is a need to review and update the Act to address gaps related to the rights and well-being of Sierra Leonean children. In 2022, the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs began reviewing the Child Rights Act (CRA) 2007 and the Bill tabled in Parliament.

Sally Adams, President of the Women’s Forum Network, applauded (FEMNET) for its support in facilitating the training. She noted that FEMNET operates in 7 countries across East and West Africa and has facilitated similar training sessions in some West African countries. She acknowledged that while significant efforts have been made by the government and its partners to address issues affecting children through the Child Rights Act 2007, however, there is an urgent need to review the current Child Rights Act in combating emerging issues like child trafficking, early marriage, juvenile justice, harmful traditional practices, and teenage pregnancy that are not adequately addressed in the existing Child Rights Act. She emphasized the need to update the current Act to tackle these emerging issues effectively.

"The involvement of young people in this training is crucial," she noted. "They must share their stories and express their needs to be incorporated into the new Child Rights Act, which will promote the safety and well-being of Sierra Leonean children".

She committed to continuing advocacy efforts with relevant authorities to ensure the enactment of the new bill. “We will continue to advocate to Members of Parliament and the Government to protect girls from all forms of violence, including Female Ge***al Mutilation, ensuring that they reach their full potential in life, free from fear or coercion.” She added.

Mrs. Mariatu Bangura, Chief Director of Social Services at the Ministry of Social Welfare, echoed the need to revise the 2007 Act. She highlighted that the current Act does not adequately address critical issues such as the rights of children born in detention, juvenile justice, and harmful traditional practices.

She noted that the new Child Rights Bill will address these gaps by establishing a child-friendly complaints mechanism and assigning age-appropriate responsibilities to children. It will also set the age of criminal responsibility for children in conflict with the law and include provisions for age determination in court.

She encouraged participants to take ownership of the training and make meaningful contributions to ensure more inclusive legislation. “Speak against harmful practices and support positive parenting,” she urged.

Joseph S. Sinnah, Chief Director at the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, reiterated that the review of the Child Rights Act 2007 was completed in 2022, addressing key issues such as early child marriage, harmful traditional practices like FGM, and child justice. He noted that the new bill would further refine these areas and assured participants of nationwide consultations with stakeholders. He highlighted the need for regulations to support the Act's implementation.

Fatmata Daboh Kamara, Head of the Family Support Unit (FSU) of the Sierra Leone Police, praised the Women’s Forum Network for organizing the training. She highlighted the critical nature of the Child Rights Act of 2007 for the legal framework and emphasized the need for the reviewed Act to address child marriage and teenage pregnancy, which pose severe health, education, and protection challenges. The revised Act aims to mitigate these issues.

The training concluded with an action plan developed through discussions and group work presentations by participants, outlining their recommendations for the new Child Rights Act.

26/04/2024

Energy Minister Resigns

Energy Minister Kanja Sesay resigned after a challenging weeks of persistent power outage in the Country's Capital, offering to step aside in a meeting with President Bio, which was accepted. Kanja had been in the role since July 2018. He was considered one of the most capable ministers in the administration and a key figure in President Maada Bio led Administation. However, recent issues, including a major power outage in Freetown and difficulties in settling payment arrears with Karpowership, May has contributed to his resignation as Freetown now battling with an unbearble energy outage.

26/01/2024

AN IMMACULATE 5 YEARS CREDIBILITY OF PRA BOSS

By: Ibrahim J. Conteh

Mr. Brima Baluwa Koroma, Executive Chairman of the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) has spearheaded an emaculate and extraordinary transformation as the presiding head of the country’s Petroleum Regulatory Agency. His visionary leadership and strategic initiatives have not only propelled the agency to a new heights but have also significantly and exponentially contributed to the country's economic growth and development.

One of Mr. Baluwa’s standout accomplishments during his leadership is the extraordinary increase in revenue generation. Under his strategic guidance, the PRA's revenue catapulted from 473 billion Leones in 2018 to an impressive 1.08 trillion Leones in 2023. This remarkable 128% surge not only showcases Chairman Koroma's adept financial management but also underscores the PRA's substantial contribution to Sierra Leone's GDP.

The PRA Boss visionary leadership extended beyond financial milestones to infrastructure development. Over the past five years, the storage capacity of the petroleum sector witnessed a substantial boost, soaring from 120,000 metric tons to an impressive 215,000 metric tons. This expansion is a testament to his commitment to fortifying Sierra Leone's energy infrastructure, ensuring a robust and efficient petroleum supply chain.

Creating a more accessible and widespread network of gas stations became a priority under Mr. Baluwa’s leadership. The number of gas stations across the country surged from 202 to an astounding 415, reflecting a proactive effort to meet the growing demands of Sierra Leone's growing population. This increase not only enhances accessibility for consumers but also fosters economic growth and job creation.
Recognizing the need for localized oversight, he initiated the recruitment of district monitoring offices in strategic districts from 0 to 16. This decentralization strategy ensures that PRA can efficiently address regional nuances and challenges, fostering a more responsive and adaptive regulatory environment.

Understanding the importance of prompt response and decentralized operations, he took the initiative to establish regional offices for the agency. This strategic move ensures that the agency can respond promptly to emerging issues, streamline operations, and provide localized support. The regional offices represent a shift towards a more dynamic and adaptable regulatory framework, aligning with global best practices.

His transformative five-year journey as the Executive Chairman of the Petroleum Regulatory Agency is etched in the annals of Sierra Leone's petroleum sector. The remarkable increase in revenue, expansion of infrastructure, proliferation of gas stations, establishment of district monitoring offices, and the creation of regional offices stand as testament to his visionary leadership. Under his stewardship, the PRA has not only elevated its contribution to the nation's GDP but has also set a precedent for effective, responsive, and forward-thinking regulation in country’s petroleum downstream sector.

In responding to the audit queries, Mr. Brima Baluwa Koroma not only addressed concerns transparently but also used the opportunity to showcase the transformative achievements during his five-year leadership at the PRA. His commitment to accountability, coupled with a track record of significant accomplishments, positions Mr. Koroma as a leader dedicated to advancing Sierra Leone's petroleum sector and fostering sustainable growth.

©️Heritage Newspaper

26/01/2024

Paul Sobba Takes SLMA To Next Level

By Robert Kondema Kargbo

President Julius Maada Bio did not make any mistake when he reinstated the Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA), Mr Paul Sobba Massaquoi, after it became clear that allegations against him were all the machinations of witch hunters.
As soon as he was reinstated, Paul Sobba Massaquoi started the rebranding of the SLMA which saw him officially flying to London, United Kingdom, where he presented the Sierra Leone STCW Statutory Instrument at the International Maritime Organisation General Assembly. This was his first project since his appointment in 2021.
Back home, he is now continuing the rebranding process by creating an atmosphere of open communication whereby his Administration will be having unhindered interaction with journalists, both from the print and electronic media, at any time they need any information concerning the SLMA.
It could be recalled that for years, the SLMA has grappled with allegations ranging from abuse of office to corruption, casting a shadow over its operations and importance to contributing to the national Revenue Consolidated Fund. Transparency and accountability were issues that were also overshadowing the SLMA to the extent that the media were most of the time publishing negative stories about the Administration because they were often denied access to credible information which normally leaves them to speculations and misinformation.
However, in a groundbreaking shift, Mr Sobba Massaquoi has taken the helm in fostering a more transparent relationship with the media. This proactive approach aims to provide accurate information and regular updates on the Administration's ongoing activities.
One key initiative driving this newfound transparency is the domestication of the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). Under Mr Massaquoi's leadership, Sierra Leone is set to organize its own training programmes, marking a pivotal moment for the nation's maritime sector. This move not only reflects a commitment to adhering to international standards but also holds the promise of advancing Sierra Leone's blue economy in unprecedented ways.
As Paul Sobba Massaquoi spearheads this positive shift, the SLMA is poised to transform its narrative, fostering trust and credibility. By embracing open communication, the Administration aims to build a foundation for a maritime sector that not only meets global standards but also actively contributes to the nation's economic growth.
The Maritime Administration was established by an Act of Parliament in 2000, being an act to establish an autonomous body for the Registration of ships and other vessels, the licensing and safety of maritime personnel and for the Regulation and development generally of maritime, coastal and inland water transport and for other matters connected therewith.
It is also guided by other regulations such as the Carriage of Deck Passengers Act, 1961, the Registration of shipping Act 1965, and the Merchant shipping Act 2003. The Administration is also steered by International Maritime conventions, codes and other relevant Instruments. The Administration is guided by a Advisory Board, and headed by an Executive Director who is appointed by the President and Head of State.

06/06/2023

IN FULFILMENT OF A MANIFESTO PROMISE… SLMA COMMISSIONS THE CONSTRUCTION OF A MULTIPURPOSE JETTY AT YAGOI

By: Ibrahim John Conteh

In an effort to enhance easy mobility along coastal communities, the Executive Director and Board Chairman of the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA) has on Friday 2nd June, 2023 commissioned the turning of the sod for the construction of the Yagoi Jetty at Yagoi Town, Imperi Chiefdom Bonthe District. The program which was well attended by locals and communities leaders of Yagoi Township was also graced by senior management staff of SLMA and the Bonthe District Council.
In his introductory Statement, the Deputy Chief Administrator of Bonthe District Mohamed Vandi who also doubles as the chairman for the event reminded the audience that the reason for such gathering is a fulfillment of a campaign promise made in 2018 by His Excellency the President Julius Maada Bio to the people of Yagoi that if voted in has President, he will guarantee the construction of a jetty in that community to ease their movement in and around the district and beyond. “In actualization of that promised made by His Excellency, we are here today to turn the sod for the construction of an ultra-modern-state of the art jetty for the people for Yagoi”. He exclaimed.
He noted that the Bonthe District Council has been fully involved in all of the engagements over the years with Directors of SLMA, Yagoi Community Stakeholders in reaching an agreement with properties owners that would be affected and therefore expressed gratitude to the management of SLMA for involving the Council in all of its negotiations and deliberations with all relevant authorities.
On his part, the Director of Safety at SLMA Ibrahim Wurie, noted that part of his responsibility is to provide safety at sea and that a key component to that is ensuring that the right infrastructures are in place. He explained that the process involve in the construction of the Jetty has been carefully analyzed after thorough engagement with key stakeholders including the late Paramount Chief.
He revealed that the Jetty after completion will be a multipurpose facility with a number of amenities and equipment with a terminal built with a VIP Lounge, a dual carriage way that would be disable friendly.
Alhaji Umaru Dumbuya, SLMA Board Chairman explains that SLMA’s 22 years in existence has been characterised with greatness and therefore informed the people of Yagoi that His Excellency is very passionate about this venture and calls on them to take ownership of the project and exhorts them to utilize the facility for its intended purpose once completed.
In his Statement, the Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration Paul Soba Massaquoi reiterate that the construction of the jetty is a fulfillment of the promise made by His Excellency the President to the people of Yagoi in his 2018 campaign message, referencing page 16 (66) of the SLPP 2018 manifesto which highlighted Sulima, Yagoi and Nitti for the construction of jetties to aid movement of people in these riverine communities. Adding that with a landing Jetty at Yagoi, other towns and villages will land their boats for the sale of their catches, which will serve as landing facility for fishing boats and other vessels that will creates and expands new economic opportunities in fisheries and tourism.

ED Massaquoi added that SLMA is determined to deliver community-based projects that would have an impact on the livelihood of people in coastal areas. He thanked the President in making this project a reality and therefore urges the indigenes of Yagoi Town to vote President Bio for continued development and youth empowerment, maintaining that the project would also pave way for direct movement of goods around other communities within Bonthe district and will also serve an opportunity to promote trade at inter district level.
He explained that Yagoi Jetty is expected to improve interconnectivity by sea along riverine communities’ hence spurring economic growth that will enhance food security, employment, and livelihoods of the people in these regions through a swift supply of fish and other commercial goods, underscoring that the local level, the immediate beneficiaries of the project will be local fishing communities and traders. The project is expected to result in improved landing and mooring infrastructure for fishing communities and other traders that will facilitate the transport of increased fish catch to the market, as well as other commodities.
ED Massaquoi revealed that after several negotiations with community leaders and property owners a compensation agreement has been reached with those whose land or structure would be affected. “Though it’s a government project, yet we are very mindful that it will have an impact on those whose properties would be affected and hence a compensation package has been agreed with those that whose properties would be affected” ED Massaquoi clarifies.
He concluded that the Government of President Julius Maada Bio is committed to deliver infrastructures that are relevant for inclusive economic development that focuses on sustainable investments that increased job creation and economic growth for the benefit of all Sierra Leoneans.
The project is expected to be completed within 12 Months period upon handing over of the site to the constructing firm- ASSIL Construction Company.
The event was climaxed with the turning of the sod by the SLMA Board Chairman and community leaders.