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City Road Community began their 1XBet ASSPA Inter-Community League 2026 campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Kissy Community in a Group D encounter at the Approved School Playing Field. Ibragim Bangoura opened the scoring in the 11th minute before Karim Kamara doubled the lead in the 52nd minute from a Santigie Koroma assist. Kissy Community enjoyed spells of possession but failed to break down City Road’s disciplined defence. Despite finishing the match with 10 men following Sheik Tejan Camara’s straight red card, City Road comfortably held on for all three points. Amidu Sesay of City Road and Mohamed Junior Camara of Kissy Community were also cautioned during the match. The victory gives City Road an ideal start to their Group D campaign, while Kissy Community will aim to bounce back in their next fixture as the 1XBet ASSPA Inter-Community League 2026 continues to gather momentum.

The prosecution of three men accused of maliciously damaging property valued at Le42,500 in Hill Station has been adjourned after the complainant failed to appear in court. Joseph Bunduka, alias Maada, Ibrahim Kanu, and Augustine Kamara appeared before Magistrate John Manso Fornah at Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 2 in Freetown to answer a charge of malicious damage. According to the prosecution, the alleged offence occurred on June 10, 2026, along Kia Kamara Drive, where the accused are alleged to have destroyed a retaining wall valued at Le40,000 and a makeshift structure worth Le2,500. The damaged properties reportedly belong to Santigie Sesay and Aminata Conteh. The charge was read and explained to the accused, who all pleaded not guilty. During the proceedings, Police Constable 18235 TKK informed the court that the complainant was absent, preventing the prosecution from presenting its case. The prosecutor therefore applied for a subpoena to compel the complainant’s attendance at the next hearing. Magistrate Fornah granted the application and adjourned the matter to July 29, 2026, for further proceedings. The case was postponed due to the complainant’s absence, underscoring the importance of witness attendance in the prosecution of property-related offences.

Jamaica Grants Visa-Free Access to Sierra Leonean Travellers Jamaica has lifted visa requirements for Sierra Leonean travellers, marking a significant development in diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations. The change, confirmed by Jamaica’s Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA), allows Sierra Leonean citizens to visit the Caribbean country without securing a visa prior to their journey and instead on entry. The visa upon arrival scheme is available in many countries for Sierra Leoneans and accessible to some foreign countries when also visiting Sierra Leone. This policy shift is anticipated to bolster tourism and foster cultural exchange. By facilitating easier movement for tourists, artists, business professionals, and cultural practitioners, both countries aim to deepen their longstanding historical connections. The move holds special significance given the shared history between West Africa and the Caribbean. Sites such as Sierra Leone’s Bunce Island, a former slave-trading outpost, remain focal points for members of the Caribbean diaspora seeking to reconnect with their ancestral heritage. Sierra Leone's Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has welcomed the development, viewing it as a catalyst for increased international partnership and destination promotion. Beyond tourism, officials expect the enhanced access to encourage further collaboration across the music, arts, and cultural industries, building upon the rich traditions of both nations.

The Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), Mr. James Bagie Bio, has joined United Nations Member States in adopting a landmark resolution aimed at reducing global road traffic deaths and injuries by at least 50 percent by 2030. Representing Sierra Leone at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on 20 July 2026, Mr. Bio voted in favour of the draft resolution titled “Political Declaration of the High-Level Meeting on Improving Global Road Safety.” The resolution was overwhelmingly adopted, with 162 Member States voting in support, one voting against, and no abstentions. The decision reflects Sierra Leone’s continued commitment to strengthening road safety measures and supporting global efforts to protect road users from preventable deaths and injuries. The adopted resolution calls on Member States to promote road safety education, strengthen safety culture, improve public awareness, and ensure that road and transport infrastructure projects financed through national and international resources meet minimum safety standards. It also highlights the importance of stronger accountability mechanisms to prevent the construction or upgrading of infrastructure that places road users at unacceptable risk, while ensuring that safety remains central to transport planning and development initiatives. Addressing the General Assembly, Mr. James Bagie Bio reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to implementing laws, policies, and regulations designed to improve road safety and security across the country. He said Sierra Leone remains committed to achieving the global target of reducing road traffic deaths and serious injuries by half by 2030, in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target 3.6 and the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021–2030, under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio. “Road safety is a shared responsibility. While we commend the efforts of all stakeholders, let me assure this House that Sierra Leone is unwavering in its commitment to halving road traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2030 and beyond. Together, let us honour the sacred promise of safer roads, safer vehicles, and safer road users for today and for future generations,” Mr. Bio stated. The adoption of the resolution represents another milestone in the global campaign to reduce road fatalities and reinforces Sierra Leone’s role in advancing international road safety initiatives.

Over 2,000 Jobs Created During Sierra Leone’s ECOWAS Hosting, Says Sengeh Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh has countered public skepticism regarding the financial impact of hosting the ECOWAS Mid-Year Statutory Meetings, asserting that the project provided significant economic opportunities for local citizens. Speaking at a government press conference at the Miatta Civic Centre on July 21, 2026, Dr. Sengeh, who served as National Coordinator for the event, reported that more than 2,000 Sierra Leoneans were employed during the six-month construction and preparation phase of the project. Addressing concerns about the long-term value of the new facilities in Lungi, the Chief Minister emphasized that the summit relied entirely on local talent. Local workers filled a wide range of roles, including event planning, translation, transportation, and hospitality. Dr. Sengeh also stressed that the recruitment process was non-partisan, stating that hiring was open to all citizens regardless of political affiliation or social identity. The government maintains that beyond the immediate economic boost, the investment in infrastructure will provide lasting benefits by enhancing Sierra Leone's capacity to host major international events in the future.

Two Businessmen Granted Bail in $130,000 Gold Fraud Case Two businessmen accused of orchestrating a $130,000 gold fraud scheme have been granted bail by the Pademba Road Court No. 1. The defendants, Isaac Jeptha Mamatta, 25, and Ibrahim Al-wahhab, appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah facing charges of conspiracy to defraud and obtaining money by false pretenses. The allegations stem from an incident in December 2025, in Metchem, Goderich, where the pair reportedly claimed they could sell three kilograms of gold to the complainant, Paul Joseph Francis, for shipment to Dubai. Prosecutors allege that the defendants knowingly misled Mr. Francis to secure $130,000 and Le 20,000 in cash. As this is a committal proceeding, no plea was taken when the charges were read. Prosecutor Inspector Kadie M. Taylor confirmed that the defense counsel has been served with the inquiry file. Magistrate Jah granted bail set at Le 500,000, requiring two sureties who must provide proof of employment and valid identification. The bail must be approved by the Deputy Assistant Registrar. The matter has been adjourned until July 27, 2026.

RSLAF Bids Farewell to Retired Brigadier General Modibo Leslie Lymon The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) recently honoured the late retired Brigadier General Modibo Leslie Lymon with a military burial, concluding a distinguished 33-year career of national service. The final farewell took place at the Armed Forces War Graves on Regent Road, Lumley, Freetown. The ceremony followed a formal Laying-Out at the Julius Maada Bio Parade Square and a Funeral and Requiem Mass at Saint Luke’s Parish Church, both located at the Wilberforce Barracks. Despite heavy rainfall, family members, military personnel, and dignitaries gathered to pay their respects to the officer. Born on February 27, 1945, in Jimmi, Bargbo Chiefdom, Bo District, General Lymon began his path to the military in 1961 at the Royal Sierra Leone Military Force Secondary School. He formally entered military service in 1965, later commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in 1970 after completing training at the Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot, England. General Lymon retired from active military duty on April 11, 1994, but remained active in national affairs. From 2010 to 2018, he served as Commissioner for the Sierra Leone National Commission on Small Arms—now the National Commission on Arms and Ammunition—where he played a key role in national efforts regarding arms control and regulation. The RSLAF described the burial as an opportunity to recognize an officer whose life exemplified discipline, commitment, and dedicated service to the nation.

Members of President Julius Maada Bio’s Cabinet and Front Office staff have celebrated his leadership following Sierra Leone’s successful hosting of the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Lungi. In a post shared on social media, President Bio described the occasion as “an exciting morning,” revealing that Cabinet members and his Front Office staff had recognised his leadership after what he described as a monumental achievement for the country. “What an exciting morning! Cabinet and my front office staff celebrated my leadership at the recently concluded ECOWAS Summit in Lungi,” the President wrote. President Bio said Sierra Leone’s successful hosting of the high-profile regional summit, which brought together Heads of State and Government from across West Africa, reflected the country’s growing capacity to organise major international events. He also highlighted the inauguration of the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre in Lungi, describing it as the most modern conference facility in the sub-region. “Together, we achieved a monumental milestone by successfully hosting Heads of State and Government. We inaugurated the state-of-the-art Julius Maada Bio Conference Centre, the most modern facility in our region,” he stated. The President attributed the success of the summit to teamwork and collective commitment, saying the achievement demonstrated what Sierra Leone could accomplish through unity. “This achievement proves that when we unite, we can accomplish anything,” he said. President Bio concluded his message by expressing appreciation to members of his Cabinet and Front Office staff for the confidence they had shown in his leadership.“Thank you for your trust in my leadership!” he added. Sierra Leone recently hosted the ECOWAS Mid-Year Statutory Meetings and the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Lungi. The summit brought together regional leaders to deliberate on economic integration, regional security, democratic governance, and investment, while also marking the official commissioning of the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre, which is expected to host future regional and international conferences.

The Network for Children’s Empowerment Sierra Leone (NCESL), in partnership with the Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC) East and Eastern Voice of Health Radio, has commenced a one-day capacity-building training for bloggers in Kenema aimed at promoting responsible blogging, ethical journalism, and peaceful digital communication. The training, currently underway at the SOMKEN Radio Conference Room in Dorwaila, Kenema City, seeks to strengthen the knowledge, ethical standards, and digital communication skills of bloggers and online content creators. Participants are receiving practical training on a range of key topics, including conflict-sensitive reporting, media laws and the Independent Media Commission (IMC) Code, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, digital branding, and opportunities in the digital media space, among others. According to the organizers, the training is designed to enhance bloggers’ understanding of journalism and their responsibilities as digital content creators. It also emphasizes the importance of fact-checking and verifying information before publication, maintaining high ethical standards in reporting, and protecting and safeguarding children through responsible media practices. The coordinators noted that the sessions have been structured to be highly interactive, allowing participants to engage in discussions, ask questions, and gain practical insights from facilitators. The programme also includes group presentations, evaluations, and discussions on the way forward in fostering a more professional and responsible blogging community that contributes to peace and national development. The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to promote ethical digital communication and strengthen the capacity of bloggers to produce credible, accurate, and socially responsible content in Sierra Leone.

Businesswoman Granted Bail in Alleged Overseas Traveling Scam Yei Mebor, a 28-year-old businesswoman, has been granted bail following her appearance at the Pademba Road Court No. 1, where she faces charges related to a reported overseas travel scam. Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah presided over the proceedings, which involved two counts: conspiracy to defraud and obtaining money under false pretenses. According to court documents, the alleged offenses occurred on November 17, 2025, in Koidu, Kono District. Prosecutors claim Mebor conspired with unidentified individuals to defraud Aiah Kposowa of Le 50,000. It is alleged that Mebor obtained this sum by falsely promising to facilitate an overseas travel program to the United Kingdom for Kposowa’s daughter, Sia. The second count alleges that on the same date, Mebor fraudulently caused Aiah Kposowa to pay an additional Le 50,000 to an individual named Madisson in Lungi Town, under the same false pretense of arranging travel for Sia Kposowa. As these are committal proceedings, the defendant did not enter a plea. Prosecutor Inspector Kadie M. Taylor confirmed that the defense counsel has been served with the relevant inquiry file. Magistrate Jah set bail at Le 100,000, requiring two sureties in the same amount. The court stipulated that both sureties must be Sierra Leonean residents in Freetown, with at least one providing proof of employment or a legitimate business. The matter has been adjourned until July 27, 2026.

Kuntorloh Community secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Blackhall Road Community in the second match of the 1XBet ASSPA Inter-Community League 2026, thanks to a first-half goal from Osman Koroma, popularly known as Ozil. The Group Stage encounter was played at the Approved School Playing Field, where both communities started with attacking intent as they looked to make a positive beginning to their campaign. Kuntorloh broke the deadlock in the 29th minute when Osman Koroma calmly converted a well-crafted team move after receiving a brilliant assist from Momoh Lapo Dumbuya. Trailing by a goal, Blackhall Road returned from the break with renewed determination and created several chances in search of an equaliser. However, Kuntorloh’s defence remained organised and disciplined, successfully holding on to their slim lead until the final whistle. The closely contested match saw the referee issue three yellow cards. Alie Sam Kargbo was booked for Kuntorloh Community, while Hassan Kamara and Alie Bangura received cautions for Blackhall Road Community. Koroma’s first-half strike was enough to secure maximum points for Kuntorloh Community, giving them a winning start to their 1XBet ASSPA Inter-Community League 2026 campaign. Blackhall Road Community will now look to recover in their next Group Stage fixture.

Sierra Leonean women’s football club Ram Kamara FC has announced the loan transfer of seven players to Guinean champions AS Bolonta ahead of the upcoming WAFU A CAF Women’s Champions League Qualifiers in The Gambia. The move forms part of the growing relationship between the two clubs and highlights the quality of talent developed by Ram Kamara FC. The players will strengthen AS Bolonta’s squad as the Guinean champions compete for a place in the CAF Women’s Champions League. The seven players joining AS Bolonta are: Salamatu Kamara Nency Kourouma Kumba Abu Fatoumata Yaya Samura Aminata I. Kamara Veronica Sambu Ishatu O. Kamara The loan agreement will remain valid for the duration of the WAFU A CAF Women’s Champions League Qualifiers, after which the players will return to their respective clubs. Ram Kamara FC has wished the players success as they take on the continental challenge, encouraging them to represent AS Bolonta with pride, professionalism, and commitment throughout the tournament.