Sierraeye Magazine

Sierraeye Magazine Sierraeye Magazine, one of the best quarterly publications nationwide with a circulation of over 2,500 copies in Freetown, Lungi , BO, Kenema and Makeni.

People read Sierraeye to get a view of the political movement in Sierra Leone. Founded in 2006. BASITA MICHAEL LLM BL

BARRISTER-AT-LAW

99 JOMO KENYATTA ROAD FREETOWN, SIERRA LEONE
Phone: +23278000001 E-Mail: [email protected]

EDUCATION
1998-2000 A-LEVELS, LEBANESE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL FREETOWN

2000-2004 BACHELORS OF LAWS DEGREE, FOURAH BAY COLLEGE, UNIVERSITY OF SIERRA LEONE



2004-2005 DEGREE OF UTTER BARRISTER, SIERRA LEONE LAW SCHOOL

2012 MASTERS OF LAWS DEGREE (ORDER OF MERIT) IN THE SPECIALIZATION INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE, QUEEN MARY,UNIVERSITY OF LONDON

WORK EXPERIENCE
· PUPILLAGE IN FIRM OF TEJAN COLE MICHAEL AND ASSOCIATES



2005-2006

PUPILLAGE IN THE CHAMBERS OF VIVIAN SOLOMON



2006

BARRISTER AND SOLICITOR IN FIRM OF VIVIAN SOLOMON



2006-2008

MANAGING PARTNER IN FIRM OF MICHAEL AND MICHAEL

·LEGAL ADVISER LEBANESE EMBASSY

·LEGAL ADVISER TO HONOURARY CONSUL OF SYRIA

·LEGAL ADVISER TO FAMILY KINGDOM

·LEGAL ADVISER TO LEBANESE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

·LEGAL ADVISER TO COMMODITIES TRADING COMPANY

·LEGAL ADVISER TO UNIVERSAL BUILDING MATERIALS

·LEGAL ADVISER TO RAINBOW PAINT COMPANY

·LEGAL ADVISER TO ANHAL PROPERTIES COMPANY

·LEGAL ADVISER TO SIERRA LEONE BOTTLING COMPANY

·LEGAL ADVISER TO THE YAZBECK GROUP OF COMPANIES

·LEGAL ADVISER TO ZEIN, LION TRAVEL AND ALI BASMA GROUP OF COMPANIES

·LEGAL ADVISER TO SAAD GROUP

·LEGAL ADVISER TO LEONE CASINO

·LEGAL ADVISER TO ST. MARY’S SUPERMARKET

·LEGAL ADVISER AND HONORORY MEMBER OF THE UNITED KINGDOM REGISTRED CHARITY, DOROTHY SPRINGER TRUST

·FORMER LEGAL ADVISER TO SN BRUSSELS AIRLINES

·FORMER LEGAL ADVISER TO ROYAL AIR MAROC AIRLINES

·FORMER LEGAL ADVISER TO COMUIM

·LEGAL REPRESENTATIVES OF OTHER INDIVIDUALS INCLUDING SIERRA LEONEANS, LEBANESE AND OTHER NATIONALS. MAIN AREAS OF PRACTICE

· LAW OF TORT

· COMMERCIAL LAW

· COMPANY LAW

· LAND AND PROPERTY LAW

· LAW OF CONTRACT

· CRIMINAL LAW

· DRAFTING OF LEGAL INSTRUMENTS INCLUDING LEASES, CONVEYANCES, WILLS, LEGAL CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS

· NEGOTIATION AND PREPARATION OF LOAN AGREEMENTS, DEBENTURES, CORPORATE GUARANTEES, AND MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS.

· RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS

·CONSULTANCY WITH JUSTICE SECTOR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME:PROVIDED CONSULTANCY ON REMAND PRISONERS 2006



* Vast Experience In Litigation and out of Court Negotiations and Settlements including preparation of pleadings for court action, Advocacy and conduct of trials, round table negotiations with litigants to arrive at amicable settlement and preparation of settlement papers.



* With the exception of one case, in my entire years of practice so far I have won all cases I had conduct of including a Supreme Court matter.

18/11/2024

Dive into the November 2024 Edition of SierraEye Magazine!*

Welcome to a brand-new issue packed with compelling stories, sharp analysis, and fresh perspectives on Sierra Leone’s most pressing matters.

🎯 Spotlight Cover Story
We feature the .taylorpearce, whose resilience amidst bias and scrutiny underscores her unwavering dedication to public accountability.

🍴 Culinary Journey
Discover how Chef is redefining Sierra Leone’s culinary heritage at Cole Street Guest House, blending tradition with innovation.

💼 Economy & Business
Uncover the transformative potential of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and explore how agribusiness can fuel Sierra Leone's economic growth.

🌿 Energy & Environment
Learn from Tombo and Goderich’s farmers and fishermen battling climate change, and examine Sierra Leone’s bold steps toward a Green Economy.

💻 Technology & Innovation
Delve into the critical topic of data privacy in the digital age and celebrate women’s leadership in tech through Aminta Kondeh’s groundbreaking work.

🎗️ Health & Society
Break the silence on mental health with insights from Dr. Abdul Jalloh, alongside vital awareness on breast cancer.

⚖️ Law, Justice & Peacebuilding
Will the new Justice Sector Reform Strategy bring real change? Explore this and visit the Peace Museum, a symbol of Sierra Leone's healing journey.

🌍 Global Affairs
Get a fresh take on Western media’s coverage of Palestine and Lebanon, and explore the intersections of identity among African immigrants and African Americans.

🏆 Sports & Recreation
From Formula 1’s growth in Africa to Leslie Koroma’s vision for Sierra Leone’s breakthrough in global sports – this is a must-read for sports fans.

📚 Books & Reviews
Dive into Gambling on Development by Stefan Dercon and what it means for Sierra Leone’s future.

🕊️ In Memoriam
We honour the legacies of Abdulai O. Conteh and EEC Shears-Moses.

💡 Be informed. Be inspired. SierraEye Magazine sparks the conversations that matter.

Download your copy today!https://www.sierraeyemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sierraeye-Magazine-November-2024.pdf

Sierraeye Magazine, one of the best quarterly publications nationwide with a circulation of over 2,5

OUT ON MONDAY! The November 2024 edition of Sierraeye Magazine is packed with powerful stories🌟 The Battle for Accountab...
15/11/2024

OUT ON MONDAY!

The November 2024 edition of Sierraeye Magazine is packed with powerful stories

🌟 The Battle for Accountability: The Controversial Push to Remove Sierra Leone’s Auditor-General
🌟 Breaking Barriers: Dr.

’s Quest for Gender Parity
🌟 Breaking the Silence: Dr. Abdul Jalloh Tackles Mental Health Challenges

Plus, an exclusive feature on Chef Miatta Marke’s culinary revolution and much more!

Stay informed, stay inspired. Don’t miss it!

My dear fellow citizens,As we continue with the difficult journey to get justice for victims of domestic violence and to...
08/10/2024

My dear fellow citizens,

As we continue with the difficult journey to get justice for victims of domestic violence and to raise awareness and as we live in a world that continues to try and impose the culture of silence, I hope that our ILRAJ Sing 4 Justice 2024 competition will once again motivate you to find your talented voices and use them to stand up for justice just as you successfully did a couple of years ago in our maiden edition.

The pain you feel as survivors of domestic violence or the outrage you feel for survivors you can create something with it by using your talents and enter the Sing 4 Justice 2024 competition with an original song about domestic violence & abuse for a chance to win Le 10,000,000! 🎤 Deadline: October 18th, 2024
Send your clip via 📧 [email protected] or WhatsApp +232 99 221122.
Let your music inspire change!

For more details please read the flyer below.

Looking forward to listening to your voices.

Please continue to help us share this message as widely as possible. 🙏❤️🥰

04/10/2024

Shielding Minister Sandy: The implications

The government has consistently portrayed itself, both domestically and internationally, as a leading force in the fight against sexual violence, particularly against women, through the introduction of groundbreaking initiatives.

Some of these significant measures include:

In December 2018, the First Lady launched the “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign.
In September 2019, the S*xual Offences Act was amended to introduce life imprisonment and harsher sentences for r**e and sexual offences.
In February 2019, the government declared a state of national emergency in response to the escalating instances of r**e and sexual violence.
In November 2022, the government sponsored a U.N. General Assembly resolution establishing November 18th as a day to spotlight the sexual exploitation and abuse of children. This resolution was spearheaded by Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio.
In September 2022, under the leadership of President Bio, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a Resolution on Access to Justice for Survivors of S*xual Violence.
Against this backdrop of notable progress, it is alarming and deeply concerning that the government has remained silent on the recent allegations against the Minister of Works, Dennis Moinina Sandy. These allegations, made public in a video posted by his stepdaughter, Amira Koroma, demand immediate attention.

We have made significant strides in the fight against sexual violence, and it would be tragic to jeopardize all that progress for the sake of Minister Sandy. Is the government willing to risk its hard-won reputation?

It is imperative that the government recognises the gravity of this situation. Sierra Leone cannot afford to retain in its cabinet an individual who stands accused of such serious misconduct, especially after the government has positioned itself as a global leader in the fight against sexual violence.

Failure to launch an investigation into these allegations will not only damage the government's reputation domestically but will also severely undermine its international standing. Shielding Minister Sandy from scrutiny is utterly incompatible with the global image Sierra Leone has worked so hard to cultivate as a champion against sexual violence.

This inaction is also unfair to the well-meaning Sierra Leoneans at the United Nations who are tirelessly working to ensure that our small nation continues to make a positive impact on the global stage. To allow their efforts to be overshadowed by the government's decision to protect a minister accused of such heinous acts would be a grave injustice. The concern extends beyond merely protecting the individual in question; it also empowers him to potentially continue acts of abuse and intimidation from a position of authority.

In August 2024, His Excellency the President, in a passionate interview with RISE, stated that his ambition is to "build a global alliance with other nations, multilateral institutions, international partners, and stakeholders to develop and agree on an International Treaty to guarantee access to justice for survivors of sexual violence." This raises an important question: who will ensure that our girls and women within Sierra Leone’s borders are afforded the same access to justice that the President seeks to provide on the global stage?

In September 2024, reports highlighted that, thanks to the passage of the UN General Assembly Resolution on Access to Justice for Survivors of S*xual Violence, “President Bio ensured that 1.3 billion survivors worldwide gained access to justice.”

While we take pride in our President’s achievements on the international stage, we long for the day when our own citizens at home are given even a fraction of that justice. It is time for the government to act decisively, honouring its commitments to the people of Sierra Leone and maintaining the standards it has set for itself on the global platform.

Sierraeye Magazine The University Scandal That Exposed Sierra Leone’s Corruption CrisisThe scandal surrounding the Unive...
25/08/2024

Sierraeye Magazine

The University Scandal That Exposed Sierra Leone’s Corruption Crisis

The scandal surrounding the University of (USL) and its botched $4.5 million deal with the dubious developer, Femab Properties, is a stark reminder of the pervasive corruption and mismanagement that continues to plague public institutions in Sierra Leone. This debacle, where red flags were ignored and due diligence was abandoned, underscores the lack of accountability at the highest levels of government and the alarming ineffectiveness of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) .

The deal, which was supposed to lead to the construction of a new campus for the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) at Bureh Town, has instead become a case study in how not to manage public funds. The fact that $4.5 million—an amount equivalent to two years' worth of tuition fees for IPAM’s entire student body—was handed over to a company with no credible track record is shocking. This is money that could have been used to improve the dire educational infrastructure or to support the thousands of students who struggle to afford their education. Instead, it has disappeared into the pockets of a developer with a history of failed projects and legal troubles in .

One cannot help but question the competence and integrity of the officials involved in this deal. Why was Femab, a company with no proven capacity to deliver on such a large-scale project, selected in the first place? According to the article, a simple internet search would have revealed that Femab has never completed any of its real estate projects and that it is entangled in numerous lawsuits in Nigeria. points out that the so-called subsidiaries it boasts of are nothing more than empty shells, with no visible operations or completed projects. This raises serious concerns about the extent of due diligence carried out—or rather, the complete lack thereof—before such a significant sum of public money was committed.

Moreover, the silence from the ACC is deafening. This scandal, which should have prompted an immediate and thorough investigation, has instead been met with inaction. The ACC appears more interested in protecting government officials and pursuing low-level cases than in tackling the big fish responsible for this massive loss of public funds. Had Africa Confidential not brought this scandal to light, it is unlikely the public would ever have known about it. Even now, there has been no public acknowledgment from the ACC, no press release, no commitment to hold those responsible accountable. This is an institution that is supposed to safeguard public interest, yet it seems to be more concerned with maintaining the status quo.

The failure of this project is not just a financial loss; it is a betrayal of the public trust. The students and faculty of , who were promised a state-of-the-art campus, are left with nothing but a barren piece of land. Meanwhile, the officials who greenlighted this deal and ignored all the warning signs continue to evade accountability. The entire saga highlights the urgent need for reform in how public-private partnerships are managed in Sierra Leone. Without , accountability, and strict oversight, such partnerships will continue to be fertile ground for corruption and mismanagement.

It is time for the government to take decisive action. An official inquiry must be launched to uncover the full extent of what went wrong and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The ACC must step up and fulfil its mandate to combat at all levels, not just chase after minnows while the sharks swim free. And the public must demand better from those who are supposed to serve them. The loss of $4.5 million is a moral failure, and it must not be allowed to be swept under the rug.

ILRAJ Condemns Police Actions Against Sierra Leone Bar Association MembersFreetown, Sierra Leone – 11th July 2024The Ins...
12/07/2024

ILRAJ Condemns Police Actions Against Sierra Leone Bar Association Members

Freetown, Sierra Leone – 11th July 2024

The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ) unequivocally condemns the actions of the Police on the 10th of July 2024, which involved the unlawful obstruction of members of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) from holding a requisitioned Extraordinary General Meeting at the New Brookfields Hotel. This act represents a blatant violation of constitutional rights and international legal standards.

Section 26(1) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone clearly stipulates: “Except with his own consent, no person shall be hindered in the enjoyment of his freedom of assembly and association, that is to say, his right to assemble freely and associate with other persons and in particular to form or belong to any political party, trade unions or other economic, social or professional associations, national or international, for the protection of his interests.”

The actions of the police in barricading the venue and preventing SLBA members from convening constitute a serious infringement on these constitutional rights. Moreover, the use of armed intimidation, rifles, and tear gas launchers against the members of the legal profession is wholly unacceptable and an egregious abuse of power.

As essential agents in the administration of justice, lawyers and bar associations are specifically protected under international law. Sierra Leone has obligations under various international and regional laws to protect the rights of lawyers and their organizations from political interference.

The United Nations Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers (1990) mandates:
•⁠ ⁠Principle 16: Governments shall ensure that lawyers are able to perform all of their professional functions without intimidation, hindrance, harassment, or improper interference.
•⁠ ⁠Principle 17: Where the security of lawyers is threatened as a result of discharging their functions, they shall be adequately safeguarded by the authorities.
•⁠ ⁠Principle 23: Lawyers, like other citizens, are entitled to freedom of expression, belief, association, and assembly.

Similar obligations are echoed under the International Bar Association (IBA) Standards for the Independence of the Legal Profession (1990):
•⁠ ⁠Standard 2: States shall ensure that lawyers are able to perform all of their professional functions without intimidation, hindrance, harassment, or improper interference, and shall not suffer, or be threatened with, prosecution or administrative, economic, or other sanctions for any action taken in accordance with recognized professional duties, standards, and ethics.

ILRAJ calls upon the Government of Sierra Leone and its law enforcement agencies to:
•⁠ ⁠Fully respect the UN Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers and create awareness about these principles among the and other state authorities.
•⁠ ⁠Refrain from shielding the police and other state agencies from accountability to break away from the pervasive culture of impunity in our country.
•⁠ ⁠Ensure that Sierra Leone does not devolve into a police state where constitutional rights are routinely violated.

We urge all relevant authorities to take immediate and decisive action to address this grave injustice and to uphold the rule of law and the fundamental freedoms guaranteed by our constitution and international commitments.

For further information please email [email protected]

Sierraeye Parliament Must Stand for Accountability and TransparencyThe suspension of Auditor General Lara Taylor-Pearce ...
22/06/2024

Sierraeye

Parliament Must Stand for Accountability and Transparency

The suspension of Auditor General Lara Taylor-Pearce in November 2021 sent shockwaves through . Known for her integrity and professionalism, Taylor-Pearce’s suspension, along with her deputy Tamba Momoh, on allegations of ‘professional misconduct’ raised significant concerns about the independence of oversight institutions in our country.

In December 2021, a tribunal was established to investigate these allegations. Fast forward to June 2024, the tribunal has presented its report to the President, and although the contents of the report remain undisclosed, speculation abounds that it recommends Taylor-Pearce's removal from office. If true, this recommendation must now be approved by a two-thirds majority in Parliament as per Section 137(10) of our Constitution.

This is a critical juncture for our democracy. Parliament faces a stark choice: to uphold the principles of accountability and transparency or to endorse a process shrouded in questionable independence.

An oversight institution like the Audit Service Sierra Leone must remain free from political interference to perform its duties effectively. Her solicitors filed papers in the Supreme Court, seeking, among other things, the Court's interpretation of sections 137(4), 137(5), and 137(6) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991. They questioned whether the Judicial and Legal Service Commission could recommend investigating the Plaintiff without prior complaints from a third party. Additionally, they argued that the tribunal set up to investigate the Plaintiff was improperly constituted, as the appointed members did not meet the required qualifications of having been substantive Justices of the Supreme Court. They further asserted that the Judicial and Legal Service Commission violated due process and principles of natural justice by not informing the Plaintiff of the specific allegations and not involving her in the investigation process. Despite several correspondences to Chief Justice Edwards, the matter was never listed for hearing.

By letter dated November 18, 2021, our founder, , a former President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association resigned from the Judicial and Legal Service Commission noting that “in the absence of the presentation of any allegation of misconduct to the Commission, it ought not to have agreed to the setting up of the tribunal.”

The charges against Taylor-Pearce and Momoh hinge on the alleged ‘breach of confidentiality and professional misconduct’ during a compliance audit of the Office of the President. Specifically, the concern was that the Auditor General contacted hotels in , , and The to verify receipts submitted for audit without the explicit approval of the Office of the President. However, it is common practice for auditors to independently verify documents and information in the course of their duties. Requiring permission from the auditee – in this case, the Office of the President – would undermine the very essence of independent auditing.

Taylor-Pearce's track record speaks for itself. She has consistently carried out her duties with the utmost professionalism, investigating even the highest offices without fear or favor. The people of know the truth.

Now, the onus is on Parliament. As the representatives of the people, they must decide whether to support a questionable process or to stand with the people they serve. Approving the removal of Lara Taylor-Pearce would not only be a disservice to her but also to the principles of accountability and transparency that are the bedrock of any functioning democracy.

Parliament must reject any recommendation for Taylor-Pearce’s removal. They must act as the true representatives of the people, upholding the integrity of oversight institutions, and ensuring that the fight against corruption and for good governance remains robust and untainted.

The people of Sierra Leone deserve nothing less.

Is Vice President Justice Juldeh Jalloh Usurping Judicial Authority in the Fight Against the Kushpedemic?According to va...
03/04/2024

Is Vice President Justice Juldeh Jalloh Usurping Judicial Authority in the Fight Against the Kushpedemic?

According to various media outlets, including and journalist , the Vice President has instructed that individuals arrested in connection with Kush-related offences be denied bail, regardless of the circumstances. Furthermore, he has purportedly asserted that even if 150 lawyers represent them, they should not be granted bail, emphasizing a predetermined path of incarceration and sentencing. The VP is quoted as saying, "Over the weekend, we intercepted two containers and 7 people are in custody. They will never see sunlight, they will be charged and will be sentenced, and no amount of lawyer will take them out from where they are."

Such pronouncements are deeply troubling on multiple fronts. Firstly, they represent a blatant overreach of executive authority into the domain of the judiciary. In a democratic society founded on principles of separation of powers, it is unacceptable for the executive branch to determine the granting of bail to accused persons. These functions are rightly within the purview of an independent judiciary, insulated from political influence and beholden only to the impartial application of the law.

Moreover, the Vice President's statements betray a fundamental disregard for the presumption of innocence, a cornerstone of any fair and just legal system. Every individual accused of a crime is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. To preemptively declare guilt and prescribe punishment before due process has run its course is a gross violation of this principle and undermines the very fabric of justice.

Furthermore, the government's approach to combating the kushpedemic must not come at the expense of fundamental human rights. While it is imperative to address the public health and security concerns posed by the illicit drug trade, doing so must be in accordance with established legal norms and respect for individual liberties. Denying bail, demanding sentencing without due process and shifting the burden of proof not only infringes upon the rights of the accused but also risks exacerbating social inequalities and perpetuating cycles of injustice.

In their public statements, government officials must advocate for the upholding of the principles of the rule of law and the protection of all individuals' fundamental rights, regardless of the nature of their alleged crimes. Instead of evading legal procedures, let us confront the using evidence-based measures that protect human dignity and promote social justice. Let us engage in open and honest debate, consult with experts, including public health and addiction specialists, as well as psychiatrists and psychologists, and collaborate to find practical solutions.

Sierraeye on Twitter.

Download the latest edition of Sierraeye Magazine https://www.sierraeyemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/SIERRAEYE...
02/04/2024

Download the latest edition of Sierraeye Magazinehttps://www.sierraeyemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/SIERRAEYE_DIGITAL-MARCH-2024-FINAL.pdf Dear Readers,

Welcome to the fourth edition of Sierraeye Digital Magazine, where we delve into the heart of Sierra Leone's pressing issues with curiosity, insight, and a commitment to truth. In this edition, we bring you a diverse array of articles that reflect the multifaceted tapestry of our nation's journey.

Our cover story shines a spotlight on the pivotal moment in our judicial system with "Judicial Reforms Under the New Acting Chief Justice - A Period of Reform." We explore the transformative impact of Justice Nicholas Colin Browne-Marke's tenure and the strides taken toward enhancing the integrity and efficacy of Sierra Leone's judiciary. His proactive approach and unwavering commitment to justice stand as a beacon of hope for a brighter future.

In an exclusive interview, we sit down with Mariam Conteh Morgan, the trailblazing first female Deputy Vice-Chancellor at one of the University of Sierra Leone's constituent colleges, IPAM. Her remarkable journey through academia and leadership roles inspire us all, while her vision for empowering young girls and promoting diversity within the university sets a powerful example for future generations.

Our pages also dissect the complexities of governance with articles like "SLPP Government's Policies: Eroding Anti-Corruption Efforts" and "Allegations of Discrimination Against Sierra Leoneans of Lebanese Descent." We examine the challenges faced by our institutions and the imperative need for accountability and inclusivity.

Moreover, we delve into the realm of education with "The Quest for Academic Freedom in Sierra Leone's Higher Education Institutions" and explore the dynamic landscape of cybersecurity in "Sierra Leone's Cybersecurity Evolution." These articles provoke critical thought and underscore the importance of nurturing knowledge and safeguarding information in the digital age.

As we navigate the socio-political landscape, we also celebrate milestones such as "Assessing the Impact of Female Representation in Sierra Leone's New Parliament," highlighting the strides towards gender equality while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead.

Furthermore, we delve into the cultural fabric of our nation with features like "Ending Stigmatization in the Fight Against Hepatitis B" and "Sierra Leone Football and Afcon," which celebrate our heritage and explore avenues for growth and excellence.

Lastly, we bring you a story of resilience and redemption - "From Bars to Beats: Rapper LAJ's Journey of Prison, Pardon, and Redemption."

There are many more captivating articles waiting to be explored within these pages. We invite you to immerse yourself in the richness of Sierra Leone's stories, to engage with diverse perspectives, and to join us in our quest for knowledge, justice, and progress.

Happy reading!

Sincerely,
Editor-in-Chief
Sierraeye Digital Magazine

Editor's Picks Linowitz Professor teaches UN and small states by Sierraeye February 28, 2024 Professor Minah possesses extensive diplomatic experience from his time working as Permanent Representative for the Government of Sierra Leone at the United Nations. Photo courtesy of Eskinder Debebe/The Uni...

Every international women’s day my mind goes back to the market women of “Salad Gron” around whom I grew up and from who...
08/03/2024

Every international women’s day my mind goes back to the market women of “Salad Gron” around whom I grew up and from whom I drew inspiration.

Understanding how they and other women struggle for their families under near impossible circumstances,perfecting the art of not minding their hardships but in fact thriving on it,yet with smiles on their faces and the willingness to help others in need, is a laboratory for lessons in solidarity sacrifice caring and defying all odds that leaders can draw upon.

Like most Sierra Leoneans I want to celebrate them today and let them know we are grateful to them for impacting so many lives,feeding sheltering and educating most of our fellow citizens.

Let us also remember that in 2022 they were the ones who peacefully protested against the rising cost of living but some were beaten arrested and later on released by the police.

When His Excellency President Bio speaks of us being a resilient nation I’m sure he must have these women at the back of his mind.They represent the extraordinary resilience of our society.
Happy International Women’s Day.

31/12/2023
21/12/2023

🎉 Congratulations to Dr. Manal Ghazzawi on being named a 2023 Viral Hepatitis Elimination Champion by the Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination (CGHE)!
Dr. Ghazzawi, a pharmacist and community health specialist, has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to accelerating progress toward viral hepatitis elimination in resource-limited areas.

As the leader of the KnowHep Foundation, 's tireless efforts include community engagement, education, and advocacy. Her grassroots campaigns span town hall meetings, engaging youth in unconventional settings, and media appearances to spread health-related information.

Through her pharmacy, CitiGlobe Pharmacy, Dr. Ghazzawi provides accessible screenings and vaccines for hepatitis B. She also prioritizes testing and treatment for underserved populations in Sierra Leone through workshops and policy advocacy.

Dr. Ghazzawi's nominator praised her unwavering commitment, dedication, and determination, stating that her exceptional accomplishments truly set her apart.

We applaud Dr. Manal Ghazzawi for her comprehensive efforts in paving the way for a future free of viral hepatitis in Sierra Leone. Her recognition as a 2023 Elimination Champion is well-deserved!

Read more about Dr. Ghazzawi and the Elimination Champions awards - globalhep.org/champions

CGHE proudly announces our champions for 2023, recognizing the remarkable contributions of individuals to improved political commitment, policies, and programs that expand access to interventions and accelerate progress toward hepatitis elimination, particularly with limited resources.

Sierra Leone's New Chapter in the Fight Against MalariaIn a monumental leap forward, Sierra Leone yesterday received wha...
18/12/2023

Sierra Leone's New Chapter in the Fight Against Malaria

In a monumental leap forward, Sierra Leone yesterday received what we hope will be a game-changing addition to its healthcare arsenal—the arrival of 550,000 doses of the RTS,S malaria vaccine. This landmark achievement, supported by global entities such as WHO, Gavi, and UNICEF, signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle against a disease that accounts for a staggering 25% of child deaths in the country and prompts over two million hospital visits each year.

The significance of this milestone cannot be overstated, as the RTS,S vaccine becomes the first-ever large-scale immunization program against the deadly malaria parasite. Trials in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi have yielded promising results, showcasing efficacy and safety profiles that reduce malaria cases by up to 75%. Sierra Leone's decision to embrace this breakthrough underscores its commitment to proactive healthcare measures.
However, amidst the celebration, it is paramount to approach this development with cautious optimism. Fast-tracked approvals raise valid concerns about long-term effectiveness and potential unforeseen risks. The vaccine's limited efficacy in high-burden regions, where Sierra Leone finds itself, demands a comprehensive understanding through head-to-head trials with other interventions.

While preventing future cases is crucial, we must also acknowledge the immediate needs of those currently suffering from malaria. The vaccine, though a significant step, is not a standalone solution. As the Minister rightly pointed out, it should be integrated with existing strategies such as bed nets, diagnosis, treatment, and indoor spraying for maximum impact.
Sierra Leone's commitment to healthcare is commendable, evidenced not only by the recent introduction of the malaria vaccine but also by last year's initiative to protect adolescent girls from cervical cancer through the introduction of the HPV vaccine. These steps underscore a dedication to preventive healthcare, marking a positive trajectory for our public health.
As we applaud Sierra Leone for its forward-thinking approach, it is imperative to recognize the challenges ahead. To truly conquer malaria, sustained commitment is needed from the government, international partners, and the nation as a whole. The launch of the National Public Health Agency last week is a step in the right direction, providing an opportunity to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, ensure adequate facilities, and maintain cold chain management for effective vaccine delivery.

Moving forward, emphasis must be placed on building primary healthcare rather than focusing on large hospitals that may be challenging to manage or maintain. Primary healthcare is key. Community education and empowerment regarding the vaccine's benefits and potential limitations are crucial to addressing hesitancy and ensuring equitable access.

Continuous monitoring of vaccine effectiveness, safety, and real-world impact is essential. Additionally, investment in research to overcome existing limitations and develop next-generation vaccines will be vital for a sustained, comprehensive approach.
Sierra Leone's initiative against malaria serves as a beacon of hope. As we navigate this path with cautious optimism, acknowledging challenges and remaining committed to long-term solutions, we envision a future where no child in Sierra Leone succumbs to malaria. The government's proactive measures deserve commendation, and by combining the power of science, community engagement, and unwavering determination, we can collectively strive towards a healthier, malaria-free land that we love. https://www.sierraeyemagazine.com/sierra-leones-new-chapter-in-the-fight-against-malaria/

Address

12 Pademba Road
Freetown

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Sierraeye Magazine posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Sierraeye Magazine:

Videos

Share

Our Story

The maiden edition of Sierra Eye Magazine entered circulation in 2006 and has never looked back. Founded by Basita Michael, a lawyer by profession, the quarterly magazine has established itself as a top tier publication. Sierra Eye strives to provide a well-rounded reading experience by providing apolitical, unbiased, non-discriminatory and high level critical analysis and commentary on hot button issues affecting the nation.


Other Freetown media companies

Show All