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=ABOUT THE CALABASH NEWSPAPER=

The Calabash Newspaper was established in 2017 as a print media news and general information dissemination platform that targets a wide-ranging Sierra Leonean audience at home and abroad via social media presence. The medium seeks to engage its various reading communities in discussions about topical news happenings in Sierra Leone complemented with editorials and

commentaries on burning issues of the day. The medium ventures further to take on board topics of general interest to the continent as published and commented on in various international publications that focus on continental political, economic, and social development issues. Culture and Entertainments
6. Sports
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8. Health

VIP CEO Ahmed H. Hashim Celebrates Transformative 25th Birthdaywww.thecalabashnewspaper.comBy Amin Kef (Ranger)Today, De...
24/12/2024

VIP CEO Ahmed H. Hashim Celebrates Transformative 25th Birthday

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Today, December 24th, 2024, marks a significant milestone as Ahmed H. Hashim, the dynamic CEO of VIP Trading Company, celebrates his 25th birthday. Known for his remarkable business acumen and profound commitment to social development, Hashim has become a pivotal figure in reshaping the business landscape of Sierra Leone.

As the Chairman and Managing Director of VIP Trading Company SL Ltd and Amoula & Sons Trading SL Ltd, Hashim has not only achieved commercial success but has also played a vital role in enhancing the infrastructure of the Sierra Leone Police Force. His dual focus on business and community welfare has earned him widespread recognition and respect.

Hashim is particularly celebrated for his dedication to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and youth empowerment initiatives. His philanthropic efforts have earned him the affectionate title of 'The Poor Man's Friend,' reflecting his unwavering commitment to uplifting the less privileged in society.

In his own words, Hashim emphasizes, “I am a Sierra Leonean. I will do all in my power to advance this country and its people.” His proactive approach to assisting those in need illustrates his belief in collective progress and the importance of government-business collaboration for national development.

Recently, Hashim received a prestigious national award for Service Delivery at the Bai Bureh Heritage Foundation’s annual awards ceremony. This accolade highlights his exceptional performance in ensuring a reliable supply of rice to the Sierra Leone Police, cementing VIP’s status as a trusted provider.

His success in supplying rice has garnered interest beyond the police force, with recommendations for VIP's services from various governmental institutions. The consistent quality and reliability of VIP’s rice supply have set new standards in the industry, enhancing Hashim’s reputation for outstanding service delivery.

The Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards serve as a fitting tribute to Hashim's impactful contributions to Sierra Leone’s progress. His leadership and vision have transformed the rice supply chain for the Sierra Leone Police, driving both economic growth and job creation across the nation.

Under Hashim's guidance, VIP SL Ltd has emerged as a critical partner to the police, consistently exceeding expectations with timely and high-quality rice deliveries. His efforts align seamlessly with President Julius Maada Bio’s agenda for human capital development and economic empowerment.

The Executive Management Board of the Sierra Leone Police, led by Inspector General William Fayia Sellu, has formally recognized VIP for its outstanding contributions. This acknowledgment underscores the company’s role in ensuring food security for police personnel and boosting morale within the force.

As Hashim celebrates this personal milestone, his leadership continues to inspire hope and progress throughout Sierra Leone. The impact of his work extends far beyond the corporate realm, creating significant job opportunities and illustrating the vital role of the private sector in achieving national development goals.

Sierra Leoneans are encouraged to support the initiatives of VIP Group of Companies and Ahmed H. Hashim, whose transformative vision sets a benchmark for effective partnerships between businesses and government institutions. As he embarks on another year of leadership, Hashim's dedication to integrity and service promises to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

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Hashim VIP

By Alvin Lansana KargboIn a landmark effort to preserve one of Sierra Leone’s most cherished national symbols, Africell ...
23/12/2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a landmark effort to preserve one of Sierra Leone’s most cherished national symbols, Africell Sierra Leone has on December 9, 2024 partnered with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs to collaborate with experts from the Royal Botanic Gardens (RBG), Kew. The initiative aims to conserve the historic Freetown Cotton Tree, which suffered significant damage during a fierce storm in May 2023.

Standing nearly 70 meters tall, the Freetown Cotton Tree is a monumental landmark symbolizing Sierra Leone’s cultural and historical heritage. Its significance dates back to the abolition of slavery, with accounts of freed Africans gathering under its branches in prayer upon their arrival in the Province of Freedom, later known as Freetown. The tree’s role as a spiritual and cultural icon extends beyond the colonial era, serving as a meeting point for local chiefs and a revered site in indigenous religious and magical practices.
’sIconicCottonTree (RBG)

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo In a landmark effort to preserve one of Sierra Leone’s most cherished national symbols, Africell Sierra Leone has on December 9, 20

By Amin Kef (Ranger)From December 9th to 20th, 2024, the United States Government, through its Office of Security Cooper...
23/12/2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

From December 9th to 20th, 2024, the United States Government, through its Office of Security Cooperation, conducted an Outboard Motor Maintenance (OMM) course for 20 personnel from Sierra Leone’s Navy and the Sierra Leone Police Marine Division. The training took place at the Naval Base in Murray Town, Freetown and was facilitated by a team from the U.S. Coast Guard’s International Mobile Training Branch, headquartered in Yorktown, Virginia.

The course combined classroom instruction and hands-on practical lessons, equipping participants with critical skills in maintaining various types of boat engines. This initiative aims to enhance the operational readiness of Sierra Leone’s maritime security forces by ensuring their patrol boats remain reliable and functional.

Captain (Navy) Abdul Karim Dumbuya, Western Naval Commander of Sierra Leone, emphasized the importance of such training programs.
(OMM)course

By Amin Kef (Ranger) From December 9th to 20th, 2024, the United States Government, through its Office of Security Cooperation, conducted an Outboard Motor M

By Amin Kef (Ranger)The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP...
23/12/2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Office of National Security (ONS), has on December 20, 2024 issued a public notice reminding residents, both citizens and non-citizens, to obtain their National, Non-National or ECOWAS ID Cards before December 30, 2024. The notice, signed by NCRA Director-General, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, National Security Coordinator Abdulai Caulker and Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu, states that ID card checks will commence across the country starting January 1, 2025.

These checks will be conducted at various security checkpoints and in communities nationwide as part of an effort to ensure reliable identification for all residents. Heads of state institutions have been instructed to enforce compliance with legislation linking access to essential services to National Identification Numbers (NINs) or ID Cards.
(NCRA)

By Amin Kef (Ranger) The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Office of National Securit

By Alvin Lansana KargboIn a remarkable celebration of journalistic excellence, The Calabash Newspaper has been named Pri...
23/12/2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a remarkable celebration of journalistic excellence, The Calabash Newspaper has been named Print Media of the Year 2024 at the prestigious National Development Award (NaDA) ceremony. The event, organized by Diaspora Focus, took place on Friday, December 20, 2024, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Freetown. This recognition highlights the newspaper’s significant contributions to nation-building through responsible and impactful journalism.

The NaDA committee, after a rigorous nomination process that included background checks, debates and public voting, announced the award. According to the International Committee Board of Diaspora Focus, The Calabash Newspaper’s consistent dedication to excellence in reporting and its influence on shaping public discourse in Sierra Leone were key factors in securing this honor.
(NaDA)

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo In a remarkable celebration of journalistic excellence, The Calabash Newspaper has been named Print Media of the Year 2024 at the pre

By Foday Moriba ContehAs part of its efforts towards expanding its network to other destinations within the West African...
23/12/2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of its efforts towards expanding its network to other destinations within the West African sub region, further enhancing regional connectivity, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), led by its Director General, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, has on Thursday 19th December, 2024 at a ceremony held at the Freetown International Airport inaugurated Overland Airways, a prominent Nigerian airline, to Sierra Leone’s aviation sector. Overland Airways will begin operating flights from Freetown, Sierra Leone, to Lagos, Nigeria, offering greater connectivity between the two West African countries.

This milestone reflects Sierra Leone’s growing position as a key player in regional air transport and supports the country's vision for enhanced economic and tourism opportunities.
(SLCAA)

By Foday Moriba Conteh As part of its efforts towards expanding its network to other destinations within the West African sub region, further enhancing regio

By Amin Kef (Ranger)As 2024 is coming to a close, NP (SL) Ltd stands as a beacon of resilience, innovation and dedicatio...
23/12/2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

As 2024 is coming to a close, NP (SL) Ltd stands as a beacon of resilience, innovation and dedication within Sierra Leone’s petroleum sector. During the year, the company has navigated challenges with a forward-thinking approach, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry. By placing customer care and satisfaction at the forefront of its operations, NP (SL) Ltd has not only maintained its standing but also set new benchmarks for excellence in petroleum marketing.

At the heart of this year’s success is the introduction of the NP Energy Pass Card, a new innovation designed to revolutionize the way customers purchase fuel. In a world increasingly driven by technology, this advanced payment solution represents a leap forward, eliminating inefficiencies and addressing long-standing challenges in fuel procurement.

The Energy Pass Card is a testament to NP (SL) Ltd’s unwavering commitment to understanding and meeting the evolving needs of its customers.
(SLLtd)

By Amin Kef (Ranger) As 2024 is coming to a close, NP (SL) Ltd stands as a beacon of resilience, innovation and dedication within Sierra Leone’s petroleum

By Amin Kef SesayAs 2024 comes to a close, 5 Star Food Industries (SL) Limited is celebrating another successful year fo...
23/12/2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

As 2024 comes to a close, 5 Star Food Industries (SL) Limited is celebrating another successful year for its flagship product, Royal Seasoning. Known for its tagline, "The Taste of Royalty," this locally produced seasoning cube has rapidly become a favorite among Sierra Leoneans, offering a unique blend of flavors while also driving local economic growth. With an eye toward 2025, the company is poised for even greater achievements and expanding its impact across the nation.

In Sierra Leone’s diverse culinary landscape, Royal Seasoning has set itself apart by delivering a taste that reflects the country’s rich heritage. Unlike imported alternatives, this seasoning cube is crafted with local ingredients, capturing the authentic flavors of traditional dishes while supporting local farmers and food producers.
(SL)Limited

By Amin Kef Sesay As 2024 comes to a close, 5 Star Food Industries (SL) Limited is celebrating another successful year for its flagship product, Royal Season

By Foday Moriba ContehDuring a well-attended ceremony held on Friday 20th December 2024, the THRIVE Early Childhood Deve...
23/12/2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During a well-attended ceremony held on Friday 20th December 2024, the THRIVE Early Childhood Development (ECD), in partnership with Oxford Policy Management (OPN), has concluded a one-day meeting on dissemination of findings from a study on child care and informal early learning in hard-to-reach communities in Sierra Leone. The event which was held at New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown aimed to serve as an opportunity where researchers shared their evidence-based insights, highlight challenges and foster collaboration to improve early learning in underserved areas.

In her address, Professor Mary Hodges, Principal Investigator said the study, conducted to evaluate public perceptions and access to early childhood education (ECE), underscores a significant demand for early education services across the country, even in the most remote areas.

Prof.
(OPN) (ECD)

By Foday Moriba Conteh During a well-attended ceremony held on Friday 20th December 2024, the THRIVE Early Childhood Development (ECD), in partnership with O

By Ibrahim SesayParliament has endorsed the removal of Auditor General Lara Taylor-Pearce and her deputy, Tamba Momoh, f...
23/12/2024

By Ibrahim Sesay

Parliament has endorsed the removal of Auditor General Lara Taylor-Pearce and her deputy, Tamba Momoh, following the recommendations of a tribunal. The decision, taken on December 20, 2024, has drawn significant backlash from the Lawyers’ Society, which has expressed grave concerns over the parliamentary process and adherence to constitutional mandates.

The Lawyers’ Society, in a strongly worded statement, highlighted alleged procedural irregularities surrounding the vote. They noted that several Members of Parliament were reportedly not given sufficient notice about the vote and others were out of the country on official duties at the time. The statement described these actions as a "troubling disregard" for the constitutional importance of the decision and suggested that they may have been deliberate attempts to bypass due process.

By Ibrahim Sesay Parliament has endorsed the removal of Auditor General Lara Taylor-Pearce and her deputy, Tamba Momoh, following the recommendations of a tr

By Alvin Lansana KargboIn a remarkable display of generosity and community service, the DC Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone a...
23/12/2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a remarkable display of generosity and community service, the DC Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia, under the Scottish Constitution, hosted its annual Christmas party for children on December 21, 2024. The event took place at the Masonic Temple on Lightfoot Boston Street in Freetown, offering a day filled with joy, fun and meaningful reflections on the essence of Christmas.

Now in its seventh year, the Christmas party has become a cherished tradition for the Lodge and the surrounding community. 200 children gathered to enjoy free food, drinks and gifts, with exciting activities like a music and chair competition. The winner of this lively contest walked away with NLe 1,000 while runners-up received suitable prizes.

The event is more than a festive gathering; it serves as a platform to teach children about the true meaning of Christmas, sharing, love and worship. The Lodge's dedication to these values reflects one of its core principles: charity.

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo In a remarkable display of generosity and community service, the DC Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia, under the Scottish C

By Amin Kef SesayThe automotive landscape in Sierra Leone has witnessed a transformation with the arrival of CHANGAN, th...
23/12/2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

The automotive landscape in Sierra Leone has witnessed a transformation with the arrival of CHANGAN, the globally renowned Chinese automobile manufacturer. Established in 1862, CHANGAN's legacy of innovation and excellence has earned it a distinguished reputation worldwide. Today, its vehicles are making waves in Sierra Leone for their durability, fuel efficiency, affordability and cutting-edge technology.

Located on 86E Sir Samuel Lewis Road, Aberdeen in Freetown, the CHANGAN dealership stands as a beacon of quality and customer satisfaction. With over a year of successful operations, it has solidified its position as a go-to destination for premium automobiles. From sleek sedans and spacious SUVs to robust pickups like the Pickup Hunter, CHANGAN offers something for every lifestyle and budget.

CHANGAN vehicles are more than just cars; they are a blend of luxury, practicality and advanced technology.

By Amin Kef Sesay The automotive landscape in Sierra Leone has witnessed a transformation with the arrival of CHANGAN, the globally renowned Chinese automobi

Stay informed with The Calabash Newspaper. Get your copy of today's edition and catch up on the latest news.Visit us at ...
23/12/2024

Stay informed with The Calabash Newspaper. Get your copy of today's edition and catch up on the latest news.

Visit us at www.thecalabashnewspaper.com


everyone

22/12/2024

This Holiday Season, Choose Nutribom: Premium Baby Cereals at Emkay Store SL!

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As the holiday season approaches, Emkay Store SL in Sierra Leone wishes all parents a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year for 2025. This festive period brings exciting news for caregivers and families across the nation: Nutribom baby cereals are now available exclusively at Emkay Store SL Ltd.

Nutribom is a trusted name in child nutrition, offering a unique and innovative range of fortified cereals specifically designed for children aged six months and older. These products aim to support health and development during crucial early stages of life.

With a commitment to enhancing physical growth, strengthening immunity, and promoting overall wellness, Nutribom’s cereals are scientifically formulated to provide essential nutrition. The lineup features six delightful flavors, tailored to satisfy infants' developing taste preferences:

- Multigrain Multi-Cereals
- Rice Cereal
- Oats Avena
- Banana and Apple Cereals
- Honey & Wheat
- Maize

Each cereal is not only delicious but also fortified with vital nutrients, including iron, vitamins A, C, D, and zinc, which are critical for childhood development. The nutritional benefits include:

- Physical Growth: Iron and phosphorus support strong bones and healthy physical development.
- Cognitive Development: Zinc and vitamin B3 aid brain development, enhancing learning capacity and cognitive skills.
- Immune System Health: Vitamins A, C, and D fortify the immune system, helping protect infants from common illnesses.

Nutribom's dedication to health and safety is evident in its production methods. The cereals are free from artificial additives and preservatives, ensuring that parents can trust they are providing only the highest quality, natural meals for their babies. The careful slow cooking and drum-drying process used in production preserves essential nutrients while ensuring the cereals remain easy to digest.

Moreover, Nutribom encourages positive eating habits by introducing babies to a variety of flavors and textures, fostering a lifelong appreciation for healthy eating.

Exclusively Available at Emkay Store SL Ltd

Parents and caregivers can purchase Nutribom baby cereals exclusively at Emkay Store SL Ltd, located at No. 12 Sani Abacha Street, Freetown. Renowned as a premier distributor of baby products, Emkay Store SL Ltd is a one-stop shop for parents seeking the best for their children. For personalized assistance, parents are encouraged to contact +23288 604-402 to speak with knowledgeable store representatives.

A Boost for Sierra Leone's Child Nutrition Efforts

The introduction of Nutribom aligns seamlessly with Sierra Leone's broader initiatives to combat child malnutrition and promote overall wellness. By providing scientifically formulated, nutrient-rich baby cereals, Emkay Store SL Ltd and Nutribom are making significant contributions to the nation's goal of nurturing healthier children and securing a brighter future.

As 2025 dawns, parents can confidently embrace Nutribom as a trusted partner in their child’s early development journey. With fortified nutrition, a variety of flavors, and easy-to-digest options, Nutribom is paving the path for improved health outcomes for infants in Sierra Leone.

Discover the power of Nutribom—exclusively at Emkay Store SL Ltd—where nutrition, taste, and trust unite to support Sierra Leone's next generation.

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(C) The Calabash Newspaper

Emkay Store SL LTD
Nutribom

Nutrilac Extends Heartfelt Wishes to Families as New Year Approacheswww.thecalabashnewspaper.com Freetown, Sierra Leone ...
22/12/2024

Nutrilac Extends Heartfelt Wishes to Families as New Year Approaches

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Freetown, Sierra Leone – As 2023 comes to a close, Nutrilac is reaching out to families across the nation with warm wishes and gratitude for their continued trust in the brand. The company, well-known for its nutritious baby cereals, expresses appreciation to parents for allowing them to play a role in their children's nutrition journeys.

In a message directed to parents, Nutrilac emphasizes the vital role that love and care play in a child's growth and development. The brand is committed to supporting families with high-quality, nutrient-rich products designed for the health and wellness of infants.

For the little ones, Nutrilac hopes that their days are filled with joy and the delightful flavors of their cereals, encouraging them to discover new tastes as they grow.

Looking ahead, Nutrilac envisions 2024 as a year filled with health, happiness, and milestones for families.

As interest in nutritious options rises, parents in Freetown are increasingly turning to Nutrilac Baby Cereal Wheat+6 Months. This essential product, packaged in a convenient 400g container, is specially formulated for infants aged six months and older, providing crucial nutrients that aid in physical and cognitive development.

The transition from milk to solid foods can be daunting for both infants and their caregivers. Nutrilac aims to make this shift smoother by offering a balanced, nutrient-dense cereal that promotes healthy digestion, transforming mealtime into an enjoyable experience.

Key Benefits of Nutrilac Baby Cereal:

1. Nutrient-Packed Formula: Nutrilac Baby Cereal contains a carefully crafted blend of milk, wheat, iron, and nine essential vitamins to support overall growth and developmental milestones.

2. Easy and Quick Preparation: Designed for busy parents, the cereal can be prepared in minutes by mixing just seven tablespoons (50g) with 170ml of water or milk.

3. Appealing Flavors: With options like banana, three fruits, and honey, Nutrilac Baby Cereal caters to infants' taste preferences, making mealtime more enjoyable and easing the weaning process.

4. Gentle on Digestion: The cereal’s digestive-friendly formula minimizes discomfort, facilitating a smooth transition to solid foods for developing digestive systems.

Where to Find Nutrilac Baby Cereal in Freetown

Nutrilac Baby Cereal Wheat+6 Months is available at **Emkay Store SL Ltd**, located at No. 12 Sani Abacha Street, Freetown. The trusted distributor offers both wholesale and retail options to accommodate a variety of customer needs.

For further inquiries or to place an order, parents can contact Emkay Store at +23288 604-402. The store is renowned for its extensive range of essential infant products, including other reputable brands like Nutribom Infant Cereal and H&H infant formulas.

Nutrilac Baby Cereal Wheat+6 Months is rapidly becoming a household staple throughout Sierra Leone, celebrated for its quality ingredients, ease of preparation, and delightful flavors. It has gained the trust of parents dedicated to providing the best nutrition for their children.

As families prepare for the new year, Nutrilac remains a steadfast partner in nurturing strong, healthy infants at every stage of development.

For more details or to purchase Nutrilac Baby Cereal, visit Emkay Store SL Ltd or call +23288 604-402.

Nutrilac: Nurturing the Future, One Spoonful at a Time.

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Nutrilac
Emkay Store SL LTD

Aviation Milestone: Overland Airways Commences Operations at Freetown International Airport   www.thecalabashnewspaper.c...
22/12/2024

Aviation Milestone: Overland Airways Commences Operations at Freetown International Airport

www.thecalabashnewspaper.com

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of its efforts towards expanding its network to other destinations within the West African sub region, further enhancing regional connectivity, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), led by its Director General, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, has on Thursday 19th December, 2024 at a ceremony held at the Freetown International Airport inaugurated Overland Airways, a prominent Nigerian airline, to Sierra Leone’s aviation sector. Overland Airways will begin operating flights from Freetown, Sierra Leone, to Lagos, Nigeria, offering greater connectivity between the two West African countries.

This milestone reflects Sierra Leone’s growing position as a key player in regional air transport and supports the country's vision for enhanced economic and tourism opportunities. Overland Airways has a strong reputation for safety and efficiency and their decision to launch this route is a testament to the growing confidence in Sierra Leone's aviation infrastructure.

In his remarks, Captain Edward Boyo, Managing Director of Overland Airways, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the warm reception extended to the airline in Sierra Leone and reaffirmed Overland Airways’ dedication to fostering partnerships and contributing to the growth of the country’s aviation sector.

He emphasized the significance of the occasion in celebrating the enduring relationship between Sierra Leone and Nigeria. “The inauguration of our services here symbolizes the resilience and growing bond between our two nations, paving the way for mutual economic benefits,” he remarked.

He highlighted Overland Airways’ excitement at launching the Freetown-to-Lagos route, describing it as a pivotal moment in enhancing regional air connectivity. “This marks an exciting step toward strengthening regional air travel and fostering closer business and cultural ties between Sierra Leone and Nigeria,” he stated.

Captain Boyo reiterated the airline’s commitment to providing safe, reliable and comfortable air travel for passengers. “As we expand our network within West Africa, Overland Airways is dedicated to playing a key role in the growth of the aviation industry across the region while continuously improving the travel experience for all our customers,” he concluded.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie, Director General, Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), emphasized the milestone’s importance for Sierra Leone's aviation industry. “Today, we are not just celebrating the arrival of a new airline; we are witnessing a new chapter in the story of our nation’s connectivity to the world,” she stated. The Director General highlighted the potential of Overland Airways to enhance global connections, boost tourism and drive economic growth.

The new airline service strengthens ties between Sierra Leone and Nigeria, offering direct flights that simplify travel for business, cultural exchange and family connections. “This is about connecting hearts, minds and communities,” remarked Madam Musayeroh Barrie, adding that the service would ease travel for Sierra Leone’s Nigerian diaspora while promoting trade and tourism opportunities.

Ambassador Frank Azuike, the Nigerian High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, lauded the occasion as a historic moment, reflecting the strong and growing ties between Sierra Leone and Nigeria. “This new airline service is not just about connecting two cities; it is about connecting hearts, minds and communities,” he stated.

Overland Airways, a Nigerian airline with decades of operational experience, has introduced direct flights between the two nations. Ambassador Frank Azuike emphasized the service’s importance in easing travel for Nigeria’s diaspora in Sierra Leone and fostering stronger cultural, economic and social connections. “With this launch, we reduce the uncertainties and challenges of long, expensive and complicated journeys, paving the way for greater convenience and collaboration,” he added.

Highlighting the broader impact, the High Commissioner noted that the airline’s arrival would enhance trade, tourism and investment opportunities, benefiting both nations. He praised Sierra Leone’s progressive vision and commitment to strengthening connectivity, emphasizing that such partnerships reflect the foresight of both countries.

Ambassador Frank Azuike also commended the Management of Overland Airways for their dedication and resilience, which made the launch a reality. “Your efforts are invaluable and this achievement is a testament to the shared vision and hard work of all stakeholders,” he said.

Representing the Honourable Minister of Transport and Aviation, Dr. Alfred Forde, Senior Technical Advisor to the Ministry emphasized the enduring bilateral ties between Sierra Leone and Nigeria. “Bilateral relations between Sierra Leone and the Federal Republic of Nigeria are as constant as the Northern Star,” he remarked, highlighting the Pan-African spirit and shared commitment to the African Union's Single Africa Air Transport Market initiative.

The introduction of the Lagos-Freetown route by Overland Airways underscores Sierra Leone’s readiness to position itself as a regional aviation hub, he underscored. Dr. Alfred Forde attributed the progress to deliberate investments in infrastructure, notably the partnership with SUMMA Group to build a state-of-the-art terminal at FNA. He noted that annual passenger throughput at the airport has surged from 140,000 in 2017 to 220,000 since the terminal's construction.

Sierra Leone’s impressive achievements in global aviation standards were also celebrated. “With our remarkable scores in ICAO Security and Safety Audits 71% for aviation security and 72% for effective implementation Sierra Leone is a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication and hard work,” Dr. Alfred Forde stated.

He assured Overland Airways of the Government’s unwavering support, emphasizing the airport’s strategic positioning for the West African regional market. “Your decision to choose Freetown International Airport as one of your destinations reflects thoughtful foresight and we are committed to ensuring customer satisfaction and seamless operations,” he said.

In closing, he extended gratitude on behalf of the Government and people of Sierra Leone to the Board and Management of Overland Airways. “You are assured of the best of African hospitality here in Mama Salone,” he concluded.

The launch of Overland Airways in Sierra Leone marks a significant step towards enhancing regional integration, fostering trade and tourism and reinforcing the nation’s stature in West Africa's aviation industry.

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Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority
Overland Airways

Address

79 Campbell Street
Freetown

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