Daniel Amara, Station Manager, Choice FM 93.3 In an exclusive interview, Daniel Amara, Station Manager of Choice FM 93.3, revealed the remarkable journey of the Learning Chinese Program since its launch in 2018. Designed with the aim of promoting cultural diversity and language education within the community, the initiative has been met with resounding success and enthusiastic engagement from listeners. Amara highlighted that the Learning Chinese Program was introduced to provide listeners with a unique platform to explore the Chinese language and gain valuable insights into one of the world’s most widely spoken languages. Since its inception, the program has not only attracted significant interest but has also fostered a sense of community among individuals interested in learning Chinese. The Station Manager shared that the program’s impact on participants has been profound, with many sharing success stories of how it has enriched their understanding of Chinese culture and language. Feedback from program participants has been overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the effectiveness of the program in promoting cross-cultural communication and fostering a deeper appreciation for linguistic diversity. Amara expressed his excitement for the future of the Learning Chinese Program, revealing plans for upcoming events and initiatives aimed at further immersing participants in the Chinese language and culture. These initiatives include cultural events that will provide participants with hands-on experiences and opportunities to engage with various aspects of Chinese heritage. Furthermore, Choice FM Radio is actively seeking collaborations and partnerships with local cultural organizations, educational institutions, and language experts to enhance the program’s offerings. By leveraging these relationships, the station aims to expand the program’s reach and provide participants with a diverse range of learning opportunities tailored to their interests and needs. To ensure the program’s continued effectiveness and relevance, Amara outlined strategies to incorporate interactive learning tools and organize community-led initiatives. By evolving and adapting to the evolving needs of its audience, Choice FM Radio is committed to establishing the Learning Chinese Program as a cornerstone of language education and cultural exploration within the community. As Choice FM Radio continues to empower listeners with the tools and resources needed to explore new languages and cultures, the Learning Chinese Program stands as a shining example of the station’s dedication to promoting diversity, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and enriching the lives of its audience members through engaging and educational programming.
In Sia Alleged Murder Trial: Doctor says effect of CPR may Lead to “Fractured Ribs”
By Feima Sesay Dr. Herbert Kallon who happens to be the 7th Prosecution Witness in the ongoing murder trail of Sia Fatu Kamara has revealed that some of the effect of Cardoe Preliminary Resuscitation (CPR) can lead to ribs Fractured if done by inexperienced medical worker. He said these during his testimony on Friday, 1st November 2024 , before Justice Alhaji Momoh Jah Stevens presiding over the matter. Led in evidence by state Lawyer Yusuf Issac Sesay, he said he is a surgeon medical doctor and has worked for about 11 years now. He said he is currently attached to the Connaught hospital but previously worked at the Emergency Government Hospital Goderich.” I worked at the emergency hospital from the 1st July to 1st October 2024, i was there for additional post graduate surgical training for a period of 3 months and my duties then includes, treating patient at the outpatient department, treating patient admitted at the hospital, performed sugercal operations with my supervisor and conduct procedures on patient admitted and also outpatient”, he explained. Dr Kallon further recalled 13th August 2024, that on that day while on duty at the Emergency hospital , at around 8:am, one of their nurses called him and informed him about an emergency case around 8:25 am. Upon receipt of that information, the witness said he rushed into the critical area at the emergency room where the patient was and while there he noticed one international doctor and a team of nurses performing CPR on the deceased (Sia Fatu Kamara). The Cardoe Preliminary Resuscitation he said involves application of chest compressions by a health care worker to move blood around the body, breathing of air into the mouth . He said this is done using instrument into the mouth through an air bag, and monitoring of the patient and the monitor. He said the procedure also involved giving some drugs to the patient, adding that the CPR procedure involves a lot of healthcare workers. He said they conduct CPR to save the life of patients who are brought to the hospital unconscious without the heart functioning well and they immediately conduct CPR to save that patient. He explained further that, when he entered the critical area at the emergency hospital where the patient (deceased) was, he went to where the CPR was conducted to observe the procedure and also took notes of what was going on. According to him, one of his supervisors Dr Claudio was already in charge of leading the process, noting that on his arrival the CPR continued for about 15 to 20 minutes. He said he observed the deceased lying on the bed unconscious without responding to any stimuli; meaning she was motionless and not responding to any voice, neither the force applied to her chest. He continued that when he checked the monitor , the deceased blood pressure was zero, and there was no pulse. According to him, the respiratory rate was zero, and the Electro Cardeo Gram(ECG) which was to measure the electrical activity of the heart shows nothing . During the procedure, he said , two medications were applied on the deceased, namely ; Adrenaline medicine which they give during resuscitation to restart the heart and Naloxone medicine which they give to nuetrilized drugs. The team that was performing the procedure according to the witness concluded that the patient did not show any sign of improvement throughout the whole procedure . That means , the patient was brought unconscious with no sign of life.Throughout the procedure, the witness said the deceased remain unconscious with no sign of life and at the end the deceased was confirmed dead. Dr Claudio and some of the nurses he said went to inform the relatives of the deceased . He mentioned that he summarized his findings on the outpatient chart and ended with a diagnosis that the patient was clinically dead and asked the nurses to wrapped the deceased and transferred her to the Connaught hospital mortuary since the emergency hospital does not have a mortuary. According to Dr Kallon, clinically dead is a term used by medical doctors to state that the patient is dead . That there were no heart sound, no breath sound, the pupils(black spot on the eyes )was fixed dilated and unreactive to light. The patient (deceased) he said was never admitted at the Emergency hospital because she was confirmed dead and didn’t meet the emergency hospital criteria . The diagnosis chart of Sia Fatu Kamara (now deceased) was shown to the witness which he identified. It was produced and tendered marked as exhibit H respectively to form part of the court records. In further evidence, the witness said the CPR has some effects especially when it is being done by someone inexperienced person but when done by a team of expirence health care workers, the side effects of the procedure he said , is very minimal. The effects of CPR according to him includes, vomiting, the belly project because of the air that is breath in the patient and it also leads to ribs fractures. During cross examination of the witness by lawyer Emmanuel Teddy Koroma lead defense lawyer for Abdul Kpaka, he confirmed that he has been a medical doctor for 11 years and has wealth of expirence when it comes to the medical field. The witness said he needs to examined a patient before confirming him or her dead and the deceased was no exceptions. When asked that upon examination conducted on Sia, if she was confirmed dead, the witness said yes she was. When he was further questions that the examination was conducted to ascertain whether the vital signs were present, the witness in response said yes that was some of the examination conducted on Sia. The witness continued that the team did a general observation on her, to check for her vital signs and the electrical activity of the heart which is not part of the vital signs, ECG and
Bai Mamoud Acquitted of Failed Coup Charges
By Feima Sesay In a major victory for justice and democracy, Bai Mamoud Bangura has been officially acquitted of all charges related to the November 26th, 2023 failed coup allegations.This decision, came after a rigorous legal battle, marking a significant turning point in his political career and reaffirms his commitment to serving the the main opposition All Peoples Congress party and by extension the people of this country with integrity. Throughout this challenging period, the National Organizing Secretary of the APC Bai Mamoud Bangura has demonstrated remarkable resilience and an unwavering dedication to the principles of democracy. Even in the face of intense scrutiny and adversity, he remained steadfast, defending his innocence and working tirelessly to clear his name. His resilience throughout this ordeal serves as an inspiration, not only to the young people of this country but to all who believe in justice, transparency, and the rule of law. The National Organising Secretary of the APC Bai Mamoud Bangura in his thank you statement after his acquittal saidhe endured an intense eleven months of investigation and legal scrutinyregarding the November 26th, 2023, failed coup deta.The High Court of Sierra Leone presided over by theHonourable Justice Komba Kamanda he said vindicated him of all charges against him, reaffirming theirfundamental belief in justice and the rule of law.“I extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to you all for your staunch support during my ordeal, and I doso with immense gratitude”, he stated.This experience he said has not only tested his resolve but also illuminated the strength of the party. It hasunderscored the importance of their unity, resilience, and solidarity.“With that, I encourage everyone to reflecton the values that bind us as members of the APC: peace, unity, reconciliation, and respect for one another,these principles are not mere words; but the foundation upon which we must build our future”In the spirit of moving forward, I want to assure everyone that I bear no grudge against anyone, as I havesincerely accepted the will of the Almighty Allah, and I urge you all to do the same. As we move forward, letus rekindle the spirit of oneness that has always defined our party. The challenges we face are significant, butwe can transform adversity into opportunity together. We must remain committed to our core values and worktirelessly to uplift our party, ensuring that the voices of our supporters and sympathisers are heard andrespected.My special thanks and appreciation to our National Chairman, Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray, Deputy NationalChairman Amb. Alhaji Osman Foday Yansaneh, all other party officials from National to Ward Executives, myLawyers, Africanus Sorie Sesay Esq and other members of our indomitable Legal Team, Members ofParliament, Councillors, Mayors and Chairpersons of councils, the media team and all party organs andaffiliate groups, my family and other notable patriotic citizens for your leadership, prayers, support andunalloyed belief in my innocence. Your patience and persistent belief in justice and truth have vindicated meand further reinforced our collective mission. Let us harness this momentum to foster a culture of hope andcourage within our ranks.As we look to the future, let us resolve to win as a family. We are stronger together, and it is through ourcollective efforts that we will achieve the greatness we aspire to. I encourage you all to stand firm in yourcommitment to the APC and each other. Together, we can forge a path of progress and prosperity for ournation. With deepest gratitude and optimism,Comrade Bai Mahmoud Bangura.
Maritime Administration on a Two-Day Management talks to Develop Five-Year Strategic Plan
The Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA) has commenced a two-day management workshop aimed at developing a comprehensive five-year Strategic Plan. The retreat is taking place at Fabulous Resort from October 30-31, 2024, and brings together key management personnel to chart the course for the Administration’s growth and service delivery. Under the theme “Strengthening Our Maritime Sector Through Strategic Vision and Leadership,” the workshop will focus on setting clear objectives and actionable initiatives that will enable the SLMA to enhance regulatory compliance, improve maritime safety and security, and foster sustainable economic growth within the maritime sector. In his opening remarks, the Executive Director of SLMA expressed optimism about the retreat’s outcomes, stating, “This workshop offers us an invaluable opportunity to reflect on our achievements, address the challenges within our sector, and design a robust roadmap that will guide our efforts over the next five years. Our goal is to ensure that Sierra Leone’s maritime sector remains safe, efficient, and capable of supporting national development.” The Strategic Plan, which will be formulated during this workshop, will align SLMA’s priorities with national and international maritime standards, with a focus on key areas such as vessel registration, maritime safety enforcement, environmental sustainability, and capacity building. As the workshop continues, participants will engage in collaborative sessions designed to foster innovation, optimize resources, and establish key performance indicators. The plan resulting from this workshop is expected to serve as a foundation for long-term impact, reinforcing SLMA’s commitment to excellence in maritime administration. The SLMA remains dedicated to ensuring that the outcomes from this workshop will positively impact Sierra Leone’s maritime sector and contribute to the Administration’s mandate of creating a secure and sustainable maritime environment.
ACC REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO MONITORING PSSNYE PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION
In a Regional Stakeholders Engagement held at the Kenema District Council, marking the conclusion of a two-day training workshop from the 30th – 31st October 2024, on Green Public Works (GPW) which is a sub-component of Component 2B involving cleaning and tree planting, under the Productive Social Safety Net and Youth Employment (PSSNYE) project, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has reiterated its commitment to rigorous monitoring and oversight. This effort is aimed at ensuring that the resources allocated to this project reach the citizens as intended. In his address, Deputy Commissioner of ACC, Augustine Foday Ngobie underscored the importance of hands-on supervision, stressing his dedication to traveling to remote areas to validate that project implementation aligns with the intended goals. “We are the gatekeepers and moral guarantors,” he affirmed. He further emphasized that the Commission relies on direct supervision rather than secondary sources like photographs or reports to verify progress. In continuation, Mr. Ngobie disclosed that recent monitoring efforts have led to the arrest and ongoing investigation of individuals involved in irregularities within one of the project components. “The Commission will remain vigilant and uncompromising in its commitment to holding offenders accountable, regardless of the amount involved,” he averred. He encouraged stakeholders to communicate to their communities the Government’s commitment to protecting these resources, stressing that His Excellency the President Brigadier (Rtd.) Dr. Julius Maada Bio has mandated stringent measures to safeguard the project’s integrity and global partners including the World Bank, bank on the ACC’s robust oversight, and the Commission remains resolute in regard this role. “We are here to support you in upholding the project’s requirements and assure you of our protection against any potential reprisals, provided your work aligns with the established guidelines,” Mr. Ngobie assured. Ambassador Ernest Ndomahina, Commissioner of the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), expressed his commendation for the ACC’s strategic approach. He emphasized the importance of extending the GPW program’s benefits to regions beyond Freetown, thus creating valuable job opportunities for youth and women across the country. “The Stakeholders’ Engagement serves as a crucial reminder of the principles guiding seamless project implementation,” he remarked. Additional statements were delivered by various stakeholders, including His Worship, the Mayor of Kenema City, Thomas Baio, Mohamed Robinson, Mayor, of Bonthe Municipal Council, and Hawa Campbell, Deputy Mayor of Bo City Council, all of whom reiterated their commitment to supporting the PSSNYE project. The primary objective of this engagement is to introduce the GPW sub-component of the PSSNYE project, gather feedback on temporary job creation, and discuss the initiative’s role in fostering inclusive and sustainable community-led solutions for climate mitigation and adaptation challenges in urban areas. Similar engagements were simultaneously held in Port Loko City for the North West Region, Pujehun and Falaba Towns, for Pujehun and Falaba Districts, with participants drawn from Municipal Council Leaders, local representatives, and other relevant stakeholders.
Standards Bureau to Introduce Standardized Market Measurements
Deputy Executive Director of the Standards Bureau, Jogor Bah, has announced the rollout of standardized market measuring tools for essential commodities such as rice, palm oil, sugar, and pepper. This initiative, launched at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s weekly press briefing on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, aims to ensure consistency in pricing and fair trade practices throughout Sierra Leone’s markets. Jogor Bah told pressmen that following extensive consultations with petty traders across the country, the Standards Bureau will begin implementing the new measuring cups in November, with an initial focus on the Western Area. The plan will then extend to all regions nationwide, unifying market measurements and enhancing consumer protection. Deputy Executive Director Bah highlighted the Standards Bureau’s commitment to quality assurance, noting that the bureau is responsible for establishing criteria that products must meet before they can be traded or exported. He explained that the new measuring cups are designed to replace the various bottles and containers currently used to measure commodities like cooking oil, palm oil, and palm kernel oil. Other staple goods, such as rice, sugar, salt, and groundnuts, will also see standardized measurements introduced. Bah demonstrated the new measuring tools, emphasizing the active role of market associations and the Traders Union in facilitating this transition. Speaking on behalf of market women, Chairlady of Congo Market Chief, Ya Alimamy T. Fofanah, expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts to incorporate informal sectors into standardized trade practices. “We are the government, and the government is us. We should go side by side,” she remarked, underscoring the importance of equitable measures for all stakeholders. Chief Ya Alimamy also praised the improved foreign exchange rate, which has eased the burden on traders who source goods internationally. Previously, due to high exchange rates, market women had to combine resources in large groups to purchase goods, making independent business travel challenging. “With the help of the foreign exchange rate, it is a relief for us as business people,” she stated, noting that they now feel empowered to manage their businesses independently. In addition, Ya Alimamy advocated for government support in upgrading local market infrastructure and authorities to consider rehabilitating existing facilities and constructing new, quality-standard structures to improve the market environment for traders and consumers alike. This rollout of standardized measurement tools marks a significant step forward in promoting fair trade and enhancing consumer confidence across Sierra Leone’s markets.
IMF talks on sustained reform momentum & efforts to improve macroeconomic conditions in Sierra Leone
In a letter dated 31st October 2024 addressed to the Minister of Finance Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, the executive board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) informed him of the decision on the concluded 2024 Article IV and approval of the new $253 million 38-month Extended Credit Programme. The Directors commended the authorities for the sustained reform momentum and efforts to improve macroeconomic conditions despite the fragile socio-economic environment, compounded by pandemics and security spillovers. They welcomed their Medium-Term Revenue Strategy (MTRS), designed to help strengthen compliance and tax administration while supporting efforts to enhance mining revenues. Further, they emphasised the need for sustained expenditure restraint while cushioning the most vulnerable households against rising food and energy prices. The ECF Programme would support restoring stability through a continued macroeconomic adjustment to address debt vulnerabilities, reduce inflation, and rebuild international reserves; bolster inclusive growth and poverty reduction through structural reforms and targeted social spending; and revitalise the reform agenda to strengthen governance and institutions in advancing the poverty reduction and growth aspirations outlined in the Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) 2024-30. Minister of Finance Mr. Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, expressed appreciation to the Executive Board of the IMF, stating that the reforms are in the best interest of the country and, therefore, reiterates the government’s commitments to a transparent and accountable public financial management that will help reduce poverty and provide social services to the people of Sierra Leone. He commits to strong program ownership and steadfast implementation under the new ECF arrangement, including contingency measures that would be vital to restore macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability and foster inclusive growth. Financial Secretary Matthew Dingie stated that this approval comes after months of negotiation led by the Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bnagura, the Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, the Commissioner General of NRA, and other actors in the country’s economic management. He further stated that in the last two months, the government has successfully negotiated and secured approval for the MCC’s $480 million and the IMF’s $253 million under the new ECF programme. According to the Financial Secretary, this demonstrates the confidence of international and development partners in the economic reforms the government is implementing.
ECOWAS National Office Takes on Wai Community in Pujehun on Cross-Border Project Implementation
A delegation from the ECOWAS National Office within Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), led by Development Secretary Peter Sam-Kpakra, engaged residents of Wai in Soro Gbeima Chiefdom, Pujehun District, to discuss the ECOWAS Cross-Border Cooperation Support Programme (ECBCSP) 2023-2027. The delegation, which included representatives from key ministries such as Local Government, Education, and Internal Affairs, as well as the ECOWAS Resident Ambassador, sought the community’s insights and consent for the project, aiming to foster regional peace, development, and economic collaboration. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), founded on May 28, 1975, was established to foster economic integration and cooperation among member states, with the primary objective of improving living standards for citizens in the region. The ECBCSP, officially launched on May 2, 2024, in Freetown by MoPED leadership and the Directorate of Free Movement and Migration of the ECOWAS Commission, is designed to promote regional stability, manage migration, and support cross-border socio-economic development. By encouraging cooperation and integration across borders, the program aims to empower local communities and enhance development across Sierra Leone and Liberia. During the meeting in Wai, Paramount Chief Mustapha J. Massaquoi welcomed the delegation and expressed gratitude for MoPED’s efforts to extend ECOWAS-supported development to the district. Acknowledging the ongoing ECOWAS initiatives in the region, including the cross-border post between Sierra Leone and Liberia, he emphasized how the new project would facilitate trade and free movement of people, further strengthening regional ties. Development Secretary Peter Sam-Kpakra commended the community for their openness and enthusiasm, reiterating the government’s commitment to ECOWAS initiatives and acknowledging the pivotal role ECOWAS played during Sierra Leone’s civil war. He assured the community that their input was heard and pledged that the steering committee would review the feedback before initiating the project. In line with community feedback, the delegation visited the proposed site for the project. After discussions, residents expressed unanimous support for the establishment of a local market to enhance trade opportunities and economic activities in the area. The site visit allowed committee members, including Komba Momoh, Head of the ECOWAS National Office, and Desk Officer Madam Laygbay Lilian Amadu, to assess the land allocated for the market. The ECBCSP steering committee will now review the findings from Wai and present their recommendations to ensure the project aligns with both community needs and ECOWAS objectives of fostering peace, security, and regional development. This outreach marks another milestone in Sierra Leone’s commitment to regional cooperation, as the nation continues to strengthen its bonds with ECOWAS and bolster economic growth and stability across West Africa.
NSA Certifies 10 Law Graduates
The National Sports Authority (NSA), through its Chief Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, on Friday certified ten law graduates who helped the agency develop statutory instruments to guide sports development. In a certification ceremony held at NSA’s Signal Hill Road office in Freetown, Dr. Abdulai said the five regulations developed by the graduate volunteers will benefit Sierra Leoneans, especially the sports sector, whose success hinges on statutes. He called the contribution of the volunteers a huge national sacrifice that cannot be forgotten in a hurry. “Apart from the certificates, your reward for this work is tangible and everlasting,” Dr. Abdulai said. Representing the NSA Technical Committee, Director Steven Keifala congratulated the volunteers for their unique contribution to the sports sector. “Your level of research for these regulations is top-notch. The outcome will serve as a blueprint for sports development,” Keifala added. On behalf of the volunteers, Margaret Sesay thanked Dr. Abdulai for the opportunity. “Indeed, our three-month internship exposed us to immeasurable opportunities,” she said. The Sports Development Fund, the Anti-doping Authority, the Position of Trust Regulations, and the Court of Arbitration are among the regulations developed by the student volunteers.
Sierra Leone”s new Ambassador to Morocco resumes duty
Sierra Leone’s Ambassador-designate to Morocco, His Excellency Alhaji Momodu Koroma, arrived in Morocco on Sunday, 3rd November 2024, to officially begin his diplomatic duties. Ambassador Koroma was warmly received by the Embassy staff in Rabat, led by the Head of Chancery (HOC), Mr. James Sylvanus Lebbie. H.E. Alhaji Momodu Koroma expressed his appreciation for the reception extended to him by the Embassy staff. With a wealth of experience, Ambassador Koroma is expected to strengthen Sierra Leone’s strategic relationship with Morocco for mutual benefit. He brings significant expertise, having held various roles within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the government of the late President Ahmed Tejan Kabbah. As Sierra Leone’s second Ambassador to Morocco, following the tenure of H.E. Atumanni Dainkeh, Ambassador Koroma’s focus on economic diplomacy will be invaluable in enhancing bilateral relations, especially following recent trade agreements between Sierra Leone and Morocco. The Sierra Leone Embassy in Rabat was established by President Julius Maada Bio on 27th August 2021 to deepen bilateral relations and boost investment in Sierra Leone. Ambassador Koroma’s extensive experience is anticipated to further solidify these ties and open new avenues for collaboration.