Daily Scope Newspaper

17/09/2024

Today's publication of Daily Scope Newspaper

17/09/2024

Shell Shocked: building collapse leaves community in crisis

A devastating seven-story building collapse occurred yesterday, September 17, 2024, at 57 Bai Bureh Road, Shell New Road, leaving eight people dead and six survivors rescued. More people are feared trapped beneath the debris, with rescue efforts ongoing.

The incident happened at around 11 a.m. when the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) received an emergency call reporting the collapse of the building, owned by Bailor Barrie, a non-resident of Sierra Leone. The building was used for both residential and commercial purposes.

Thus far, six survivors have been rescued from the rubble, while eight victims have been confirmed dead (three adult males, two adult females, two young girls under five, and one young boy under five). The NDMA has confirmed that more people remain trapped beneath the debris, with some able to communicate their locations to rescuers.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud crash as the building came down. Emergency response teams from the NDMA and Freetown City Council are on the scene, with two private cranes assisting in rescue operations.

Bystanders and local community members initially attempted to rescue trapped victims with makeshift tools before the arrival of emergency response teams.

The cause of the collapse remains unknown, and authorities have not issued a statement. The condition of those trapped is unclear, and fears rise that casualty numbers may increase if rescue operations are delayed.

Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Brima Sesay, Director General of the NDMA, reaffirmed the Agency's commitment to raising public awareness about the risks associated with using unqualified contractors and substandard building materials.

The tragedy has left the community in crisis, with many calling for stricter regulations in the construction industry to address negligence, greed, and lack of expertise.

Further updates will be provided in due course.

17/09/2024

Tragedy Strikes Again: Building Collapse Exposes Deeper Issues

By Elizabeth A Kaine

The recent collapse of a four-story building at Shell New Road in Freetown, Sierra Leone, is a stark reminder of the deeper issues plaguing our construction industry. This is not an isolated incident, but rather a symptom of a larger problem that has claimed lives and livelihoods in the past.

We have seen it before - the collapse of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure, resulting in devastating consequences. Yet, we seem to be stuck in a cycle of tragedy and finger-pointing, without addressing the root causes.

The blame lies not only with the building contractors and suppliers of substandard materials but also with the regulatory bodies tasked with ensuring safety standards. Their failure to enforce strict building codes and conduct regular inspections has created an environment where negligence and recklessness thrive.

We need to take a hard look at our construction industry and ask tough questions. What is driving this culture of negligence? Is it greed, lack of expertise, or a combination of both?

The government must take decisive action to address these issues. We need stricter regulations, regular inspections, and harsh penalties for those who flout safety protocols.

The owner of the building, who has likely invested their life savings into the structure, is now left to pick up the pieces. The emotional toll of watching one's property crumble, coupled with the financial loss, is devastating. In a country where economic opportunities are scarce, this loss can be crippling.

Furthermore, the displaced residents are now faced with the daunting task of finding alternative accommodation in a market where affordable housing is a luxury. The government must recognize the urgency of this situation and provide support to those affected.

Sierra Leone has already suffered greatly from natural disasters such as fire incidents, flooding, and mudslides, which have claimed countless lives and destroyed homes. The collapse of this building is a stark reminder that we cannot afford to add human error to the list of tragedies that befall our nation.

The collapse of this building has simply added salt to injury, exacerbating the suffering of a nation still reeling from past tragedies. It is a harsh reminder that our struggles are far from over and that we need to work together to create a safer, more resilient society.

This tragedy also has far-reaching implications for our economy. If investors and international partners do not feel confident in the safety and stability of our infrastructure, they will be hesitant to invest in our country. This will have a ripple effect, impacting businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and others that rely on foreign investment and tourism.

The collapse of this building sends a worrying message to potential investors and partners: Sierra Leone is not a safe place to do business. This perception can have devastating consequences for our economy, leading to a decline in investment, tourism, and economic growth.

The government's response to this tragedy will be a testament to its commitment to protecting human life and dignity, as well as its ability to create a conducive business environment. We urge the authorities to take immediate action to address the housing crisis, ensure safety standards, and restore confidence in our infrastructure.

The people of Sierra Leone deserve better. We deserve safe and affordable housing, a thriving economy, and a government that prioritizes our well-being. Let us work together to create a safer, more compassionate society that attracts investment and promotes economic growth.

17/09/2024

_ACCUSED REMANDED FOR ALLEGED KIDNAPPING AND DRUG OFFENCES_

By Edrie Caleb John

On Friday, 13th September 2024, a Nigerian national, Edwin Uwa Ogbonna, was remanded in custody at the Male Correctional Facility after making his first appearance before Magistrate Sahr Kekura at Pademba Road Court No.1.

Ogbonna faces ten counts, including kidnapping, possession of prohibited drugs, and dealing in prohibited drugs.

According to the particulars of the offence, on August 20, 2024, Ogbonna allegedly kidnapped Monsuru Abayomi Balogun at Alusine Street, New Road Juba Hill. He was also found in possession of loose quantities of Co***ne, Kush, and Cannabis Sativa without lawful authority.

Counsel for the accused, Zachariah Azibo Kanu, applied for bail, but Magistrate Kekura denied the application.

The matter was adjourned to September 17, 2024.

17/09/2024

NSA Seeks UNESCO Support for African Traditional Games and Sports

By Tommy Sidikie

Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, Executive Director of Sierra Leone's National Sports Authority (NSA), appealed to UNESCO to support the promotion of African traditional games and sports on Tuesday, 17th September 2024. During a meeting with Abdulrahman Lamin, head of UNESCO's Southern Regional Office in Harare, Zimbabwe, Dr. Abdulai highlighted Sierra Leone's leadership role as host of the Africa Secretariat for Traditional Games.

He announced Zimbabwe's successful bid to host the 2028 African Traditional Games and urged UNESCO to back Zimbabwe's Traditional Games and Sports Commission. Dr. Abdulai emphasized the importance of preserving African cultural heritage through sports.

Chief Michael Mustapha, President of the African Traditional Games and Sports Federation, noted efforts to codify traditional games, supported by UNESCO. Universities like Cape Town and Makerere are developing master's programs to study these cultural activities scientifically.

Lamin praised Sierra Leone's leadership and pledged UNESCO's support, while Zimbabwe's sports commission leader, Lizzie Mupure, expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts to preserve Africa's cultural identity through traditional games.

The NSA, mandated by Parliament to oversee sports development in Sierra Leone, continues to advocate for international recognition and support for African sports.

17/09/2024

WESOFOD Launches "Mi Chance for Learn" Project in Pujehun District

By Saidu Jalloh

In a heartwarming ceremony on September 7, 2024, the Welfare Society for Disability (WESOFOD) launched its "Mi Chance for Learn" project in Pujehun District, aimed at increasing enrollment of children with disabilities in primary schools.

As the event unfolded, over 20 disabled children eagerly awaited the symbolic handover of essential school and learning materials. The donations, generously provided by WESOFOD, included school uniforms, shoes, bags, and even motorcycles – all designed to ensure these young learners are fully equipped to attend school and stay engaged in their studies.

Mr. Abu, representing WESOFOD, expressed heartfelt gratitude to TROCare and the government of Sierra Leone for their unwavering support of children with disabilities. He emphasized the significance of children feeling confident and included in school, highlighting the critical role this sense of belonging plays in their motivation to remain in school.

The program manager of WESOFOD also took the stage, encouraging parents to utilize the donated items effectively, ensuring their children thrive in school. Stakeholders present at the event stressed the importance of proper care for the materials and urged parents to continuously support and encourage their children to pursue education for a better future.

As the ceremony progressed, the long-term sustainability of the "Mi Chance for Learn" project took center stage. Stakeholders and institutional representatives committed to developing future strategic plans to ensure continued support for disabled children, particularly those eager to further their education.

The event culminated in a poignant moment, as the school supplies were symbolically handed over to each child. Joy and gratitude radiated from both children and parents, filling the air with a sense of hope and possibility.

In a heartfelt vote of thanks, one beneficiary parent expressed the deep appreciation of the community for WESOFOD's tireless efforts, acknowledging the profound impact this project will have on the lives of disabled children in Pujehun District.

17/09/2024

50 Sierra Leoneans Complete UNDP-Supported Construction Training

In a milestone ceremony held on September 14, 2024, at Eastern Technical University, 50 young Sierra Leoneans received certification for completing an upskilling program in building and construction. The program, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education and UNDP, aimed to enhance the competencies of these individuals, preparing them for self-employment and sustainable development.

The initiative, aligned with President Julius Maada Bio's "Big 5 Game Changers" agenda, focused on the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), allowing participants to refine existing skills while gaining new knowledge in building and construction. This certification equips them with a competitive edge in the labor market.

Hon. Sarjoh Aziz Kamara, Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education, delivered the keynote address, praising the government's progress in strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a foundation for industrialization. He highlighted the transformation of technical institutions and training programs that have benefitted over 20,000 individuals, particularly youth and women, in collaboration with the World Bank.

The Deputy Minister emphasized the alignment of TVET with labor market needs through a recent survey and called for continued donor support to establish five regional TVET centers of excellence. These centers, along with community colleges in all 16 districts, will focus on key growth sectors such as agriculture, mining, and ICT to meet Sierra Leone's economic demands.

This initiative is part of the government's broader efforts to reduce youth unemployment through vocational education and international partnerships, paving the way for a brighter future for Sierra Leone's young people.

17/09/2024

Michaelmas Criminal Sessions Open today in Freetown

By Elizabeth A Kaine

The Judiciary of Sierra Leone has announced the opening of the Michaelmas Criminal Sessions of the High Court in Freetown on Tuesday, 17th September 2024. The ceremony will take place at High Court No. 1 at 8:30 AM, presided over by the Honourable Acting Chief Justice, Hon. Justice Nicholas C. Browne-Marke.

The event will begin with a ceremonial call-over of cases, acknowledging all parties involved in upcoming court proceedings. A Guard of Honour will be mounted by the Sierra Leone Police to mark the occasion.

The public, litigants, journalists, and court users are requested to be seated by 8:00 AM to ensure a prompt start. The Michaelmas Criminal Sessions mark the resumption of criminal cases in the High Court, with a range of matters, from minor offences to high-profile cases, expected to be heard in the coming weeks.

14/09/2024

Sierra Leone Mourns World-class Ballerina

Ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, who performed with Beyoncé and was seen by many as a trailblazer, has died at the age of 29.

DePrince, who performed with Beyoncé and was seen by many as a trailblazer, has died at the age of 29.

Mabinty made a remarkable journey from suffering as an orphan in war-torn Sierra Leone to numerous accolades in the world of international dance.

Born in Kenema, Sierra Leone, in 1995, Mabinty was sent to an orphanage at the age of three after both of her parents died during the Civil War.

But she was adopted aged four by an American couple and moved to New Jersey. Her adoptive mother quickly noticed her obsession with ballet and enrolled her in classes.

Her spokesperson wrote that her artistry "touched countless hearts," and her spirit had "inspired many, leaving an indelible mark on the world of ballet and beyond."

"She stood as a beacon of hope for many, showing that no matter the obstacles, beauty and greatness can rise from the darkest of places."

Source: BBC

13/09/2024

Today's headlines of Daily Scope Newspaper

13/09/2024

LEONE ROCK METAL- Abandoned Worker after Major Accident

By D.S

A disturbing incident has been reported at Leone Rock Metal, where an employee, Ousman Kamara, was involved in a severe work-related accident on September 10th.

According to sources, Kamara was struck on the neck by a cable while working at the Kingho Leone Rock 1B plant. He was rushed to the Holy Spirit Hospital in Makeni, where he received initial treatment.

However, Kamara alleges that he has not received further treatment since then, despite his critical condition. The hospital staff informed him that the initial payment made by Leone Rock Metal Group for his treatment has elapsed, and additional payment is required to continue his medical care.

As of press time, Kamara remains hospitalized, experiencing severe pain and difficulty swallowing and speaking. He claims to have received only one injection since his admission and is yet to receive proper medical attention. Despite pleas to continue his treatment, nothing has been done yet.

This medium reached out to Leone Rock Metal Group for their version of the incident, but it had not heard from them as of going to press. Despite texting the company, no feedback has been received.

13/09/2024

Sierra Leone on Track for Extended Credit Facility Approval

By Tommy Sidikie

Christian Saborowski, Deputy Division Chief of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), paid a courtesy visit to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio at State House. The meeting aimed to update the President on the progress of ongoing negotiations under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF).

Minister of Finance Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura reported that the IMF team had been in the country for two weeks, engaging in discussions with the government's economic team regarding a new arrangement under the ECF. He highlighted the productivity of the negotiations, commending the President and his economic team for their dedication to sound fiscal policy.

Saborowski expressed gratitude towards President Bio for his commitment to collaboration with the IMF. He praised the decline in inflation rates, reinforcing the IMF's commitment to building a stronger partnership with the Sierra Leonean government, particularly in enhancing the value of the mining sector.

President Bio welcomed Saborowski and his team, expressing appreciation for the IMF's continued support during the negotiation process and for the upcoming credit facility. He noted that with the completion of the current negotiations, approval of the ECF is expected in November 2024, emphasizing Sierra Leone's close relationship with the IMF.

The President attributed the financial gains achieved under his administration to prudent economic policies, pointing out the stability of the exchange rate. He emphasized the importance of consolidating these economic gains moving forward.

President Bio expressed optimism that the new ECF would further strengthen the country's economy and reiterated the government's commitment to effective fiscal policies and collaboration with the IMF.

13/09/2024

poem:

African Single Mother, Oh So Strong

Your resilience is a wonder to behold
A pillar of strength, your story untold
With every sunrise, you face the day
With courage and hope, you pave the way

Your children look up to you with eyes so wide
Their dependence on you, their sole guide
You work and you strive, through every strife
To give them a future, a better life

With every challenge, you find a way
To overcome, to rise above the fray
Your love and devotion, a beacon of light
Guiding your family, through the darkest night

Your sacrifices, a testament to your might
A true African queen, shining so bright
In a world that often seems unfair
You stand tall, with a mother's care

So here's to you, dear single mother
A hero unsung, a heart that's smothered
In love and kindness, you lead the way
A true inspiration, every single day.

By Elizabeth A Kaine

13/09/2024

_ Opinion

TOXIC TAP WATER: THE HIDDEN ENEMY BEHIND SIERRA LEONE'S LIVER AND KIDNEY DISEASES_

By Elizabeth A Kaine

A growing body of evidence suggests that contaminated drinking water is a leading cause of liver and kidney diseases in Sierra Leone. Despite this alarming reality, the country's water remains largely unregulated and untreated, putting thousands of lives at risk.

According to medical experts, prolonged consumption of contaminated water can lead to liver damage and disease, kidney failure and disease, and even increase the risk of cancer. The situation is dire, with many Sierra Leoneans already suffering from avoidable illnesses.

"The link between contaminated water and liver and kidney diseases is clear," said Dr. Mohamed Kamara, a leading nephrologist. "We see patients every day who are suffering from waterborne illnesses that could have been prevented with access to clean drinking water."

The problem is widespread, with contaminated water sources supplying homes, schools, and communities across the country. Chemicals, heavy metals, and pathogens lurk in every sip, slowly damaging livers and kidneys.

As I watch my fellow Sierra Leoneans suffer from avoidable liver and kidney diseases, I am compelled to speak out about the toxic tap water crisis that is ravaging our nation. It's a crisis that demands immediate attention from our government, and here's why:

Contaminated water is a leading cause of liver and kidney diseases, and it's also causing a range of other health problems, from diarrhea and cholera to cancer and even death. The economic burden of this crisis cannot be overstated, with healthcare costs skyrocketing and families forced to spend their hard-earned money on treatment for waterborne illnesses.

But it's not just a matter of economics - it's a matter of human rights. Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, and our government has a duty to protect it. Yet, our water companies are failing to deliver safe drinking water, with most of the water produced not fit for human consumption.

The government must take responsibility for ensuring that our water companies are up to task. This means regular inspections, rigorous testing, and strict enforcement of safety standards. Anything less is a dereliction of duty.

But it's not just the government's responsibility - the water companies themselves must also step up. They must invest in modern treatment facilities, train their staff, and prioritize safety above profits.

We need a mechanism to assess every water factory, to ensure that the water they produce is clean and safe for drinking. This could be an independent regulator, or a government agency with teeth.

Without these measures, we will continue to see Sierra Leoneans suffer from waterborne illnesses, and our nation will never reach its full potential. The time for action is now.

13/09/2024

_SIERRA LEONE'S HIDDEN CRISIS :91,494 INDUCED ABORTIONS IN 12 MONTHS_

By Elizabeth A Kaine

In a shocking revelation, a recent study has exposed a staggering 91,494 induced abortions in Sierra Leone within a span of just 12 months. The research, conducted by the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), paints a grim picture of a country grappling with a hidden crisis.

The study, supported by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, reveals that the majority of these abortions took place in primary health facilities (86%) and public health facilities (81%). The most common complications included infections, foreign bodies, and sepsis, with one reported death during the study period.

Regional variations in abortion incidence and post-abortion care treatment rates were significant, with the Northern Region recording the highest number of induced abortions at 23,973.

Experts say the high rate of induced abortions is a clear indication of the need for legal and policy reforms to address the causes of unsafe abortions and unintended pregnancies. "The sheer number of induced abortions is a wake-up call for our country," said Dr. Fatmata Hassan, a reproductive health expert. "We need to take immediate action to address the root causes of this crisis."

The study's findings highlight the need for increased access to quality family planning services, expanded post-abortion care, and community education and awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and prevent unintended pregnancies.

The government of Sierra Leone faces mounting pressure to act on these recommendations and protect the health and well-being of its citizens. As the country struggles to come to terms with this hidden crisis, one thing is clear - immediate action is needed to address the root causes of induced abortions and ensure access to quality reproductive healthcare for all.

13/09/2024

_business deal turns sour: woman charged with GBH

By Edrie Caleb John

Humunatu Agnes Gbla, a 33-year-old businesswoman, appeared before Magistrate Sahr Kekura at Pademba Road Court No. 1 yesterday, Thursday, September 12th, on three counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, wounding, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The prosecution, led by Assistant Superintendent of Police Ibrahim S. Mansaray, alleged that Gbla caused grievous bodily harm to Ibrahim Habib Tarawalie with intent on August 7, 2024. The prosecution also alleged that Gbla maliciously wounded Tarawalie and assaulted him, occasioning actual bodily harm.

Prosecution witness Raynatu Conteh, the complainant's wife, testified that she recognized the accused and knew the complainant as her husband. She stated that the accused sold goods for her husband and that she received information on August 7, 2024, about her husband's injury.

Conteh testified that she met the complainant at the Shell police station, bleeding seriously and unable to speak. She took snapshots of the complainant's injuries with her Samsung Galaxy phone, which was tendered as Exhibit A.

During cross-examination, defense counsel Anthony Freeman Earl Augustus Coker Esq questioned Conteh's whereabouts on the day of the incident and her relationship with the accused and the complainant. Conteh maintained that her testimony was true.

Magistrate Kekura refused bail based on the evidence presented and adjourned the matter to September 19, 2024.

13/09/2024

13/09/2024

OPPOSITION PARTY MAKES U-TURN ON CENSUS PARTICIPATION

By Elizabeth A Kaine

On 11 September 2024, the All Peoples Congress (APC) Party announced its full participation in the upcoming nationwide Population and Housing Census, scheduled for December 2025. This surprising move marks a significant shift in the party's stance, as it had previously distanced itself from the census process.

According to Sidi Yaya Tunis, National Publicity Secretary of the APC, the party is committed to supporting the census, citing its constitutional requirement. "We will fully participate, promote it, and mobilize our membership and supporters to participate," Tunis stated.

This sudden shift in stance comes after the APC had previously accused the government of using the census for political gain. However, the government has consistently maintained that the census is solely for development purposes.

The 2021 Mid-Term Population and Housing Census results revealed a total national population of 7,541,641, with the Eastern Region being the most populated. The APC's endorsement of the 2025 Census signals a collaborative approach towards ensuring accurate population data, crucial for national development and planning.

President Julius Maada Bio has emphasized the significance of the census in guiding development programs, including the 2024-2030 Medium Term National Development Plan and efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

The APC's U-turn on census participation is seen as a positive move towards national development, and it remains to be seen how this newfound cooperation will impact the country's future.