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Sierra Leone’s national preparedness to respond to a potential outbreak of Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease (BVD) currently stands at 51%, falling significantly below the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended threshold of 80%, according to a recent health sector assessment. The findings were presented by Dr. Squire during a high-level stakeholder engagement convened by the National Public Health Agency (NPHA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. The assessment revealed a mixed picture of the country’s outbreak preparedness, highlighting both strengths and critical gaps within the health system. Sierra Leone recorded strong performance in laboratory readiness, scoring 84%, indicating improved capacity for disease detection and diagnostic response. Surveillance systems also showed moderate capacity at 68%, while points of entry preparedness stood at 63%. Despite these encouraging indicators, the report warned that significant weaknesses remain in key areas essential for effective outbreak control. Dr. Squire stressed that urgent improvements are required in infection prevention and control, logistics management, risk communication, and safe and dignified burial processes in order to close the gap and meet the WHO’s 80% preparedness benchmark. The assessment underscores the need for strengthened coordination and resource allocation across health response systems to ensure the country is better equipped to prevent and contain any potential resurgence of Ebola BVD. Health authorities and stakeholders are now expected to intensify efforts to reinforce the identified weak areas as part of ongoing national preparedness and response planning.

A 46-year-old man, Alpha Sorbah, has been sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to a charge of obtaining money by false pretences before Magistrate John Manso Fornah of Pademba Road Court No. 2 in Freetown. Sorbah was convicted on one count of obtaining money by false pretences, contrary to Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916. According to the particulars of the offence, on 5 December 2022 at No.24 Pademba Road, Western Area, Freetown, the accused falsely claimed ownership of a plot of land which he allegedly offered for sale. In the process, he obtained the sum of Thirty-Seven Thousand Leones (Le37,000) from the complainant, Victoria Kebbie, with intent to defraud her. When the charge was read and explained in court, Sorbah pleaded guilty. Prosecutor Sergeant Florence Wilson informed the court that the convict was a first-time offender and had no previous criminal record. The accused, who was not represented by legal counsel, pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy. In delivering his judgment, Magistrate Fornah noted the seriousness of the offence but also considered the defendant’s guilty plea, expression of remorse, and status as a first-time offender. The Magistrate subsequently sentenced Sorbah to 24 months’ imprisonment or, alternatively, to repay the sum of Le37,000 to the complainant. The atmosphere in the courtroom was reportedly solemn as the sentence was handed down, reflecting the gravity of the offence and the court’s commitment to accountability and justice.

A 37-year-old electrician, Mohamed Kamara, has been remanded at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown after appearing before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah of Pademba Road Court No. 1 on a charge of larceny involving electrical cables. Kamara was ordered into detention on one count of larceny, contrary to Section 2 of the Larceny Act of 1916. According to the particulars of the offence, on Sunday, 3 May 2026, at Waterloo in the Western Area of Freetown, the accused allegedly stole 25 meters of electrical cable belonging to the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority. The cables are valued at 150 Leones per meter, bringing the total alleged loss to Le37,500. When the charge was read and explained in court, Kamara pleaded not guilty. Prosecutor Tommy B. Zizer Esq. informed the court that the prosecution had served the defendant with a copy of his witness statement and indicated readiness to proceed with trial. He added that witnesses are expected to testify in the coming days. Magistrate Jah refused bail, citing the seriousness of the offence, and ordered that the accused be remanded pending further hearing. The matter was adjourned to 1 June 2026 for continuation of proceedings.

Sierra Leone Rises as EU's Third Largest Organic Cocoa Supplier Ambassador Jacek Jankowski, the EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone, confirmed the nation's emergence as the third-largest supplier of organic cocoa to the European Union market. This achievement, disclosed during an interview with AYV's Wake Up Sierra Leone, signifies Sierra Leone's increasing relevance in EU trade relations and solidifies its recognition as a key player in the global organic cocoa market. Ambassador Jankowski emphasized that despite this success, Sierra Leone's status as a small economy with limited purchasing power underscores the necessity for more robust partnerships and increased investment from the European Union. Furthermore, he detailed ongoing bilateral discussions focused on enhancing Sierra Leone's capacity for port protection and management. These efforts are designed to improve trade security and economic cooperation, ultimately aiming to boost trade flow efficiency and further strengthen economic ties between Sierra Leone and the European Union. The EU views Sierra Leone’s ascent in the organic cocoa market as indicative of its expanding role in global trade, simultaneously stressing the requirement for continuous investment and reinforced economic partnerships.

President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, Tuma Adama Jabbi, has formally declared her intention to seek re-election, pledging to consolidate the gains made during her first term and continue strengthening the Association. Running under the campaign theme, “Raising the Bar, Securing the Gains,” Jabbi said her administration has recorded significant achievements over the past two years in the areas of welfare, professionalism, and institutional development within the Bar Association. In her declaration, she highlighted key accomplishments including the introduction of a Private Pension Scheme through National Social Security and Insurance Trust, securing international scholarships and professional development opportunities for members, and improving the Association’s financial stability. She also pointed to the acquisition of land for the construction of a permanent SLBA Secretariat, describing it as a major milestone for the institution. According to Jabbi, her leadership further strengthened collaboration between the Bar Association and key national institutions, while also improving relations with the Judiciary and international partners. “We moved from promises to action, from pensions to scholarships, from financial stability to securing land for our Secretariat,” she stated. The SLBA President noted that despite the progress achieved, more work remains to be done in advancing the legal profession and expanding opportunities for members. She pledged that a second term would focus on consolidation, continuity, and transformation, with increased attention on welfare, professionalism, and institutional growth. “This is not the time to slow down. This is the time to build on progress, to move higher, and to move together,” Jabbi said while appealing for renewed support from members of the Association. The upcoming SLBA elections are expected to attract significant attention within Sierra Leone’s legal community as Jabbi seeks another mandate to continue leading the Association.

The Chairman of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) Holland Chapter, Vandi Alieu Mansaray, has alleged that the ruling SLPP is facing growing internal divisions between what he described as the “Ebema” and “Radical Inclusion” camps. Speaking during an interview on Liberty Online TV, Mansaray claimed that tensions remain unresolved within the party despite public displays of unity. “Peace is not within the SLPP party, but we are behaving like there is peace,” he stated. Mansaray further alleged that First Lady Fatima Maada Bio has not maintained political neutrality, a situation he believes has contributed to divisions within the party. According to him, the women’s wing of the SLPP is now deeply divided. “The women group is completely torn apart,” he claimed, while also accusing the First Lady and the party’s National Women’s Leader, Hawa Foray, of taking positions that have intensified tensions within the party. He further alleged that the actions and political alignments of key figures have negatively affected cohesion among party supporters and structures. Mansaray also extended similar criticism to Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh, claiming that political divisions associated with his influence are becoming increasingly visible within the SLPP. “Now the party is turned between Ebema and Radical Inclusion Movement,” Mansaray stated, referring to what he described as growing factional alignments linked to the First Lady’s Ebema Movement and the Chief Minister’s Radical Inclusion agenda. He maintained that although efforts are being made to project unity publicly, underlying disagreements and political camps continue to shape the internal dynamics of the ruling party. The remarks come amid ongoing political discussions and speculation surrounding influence, succession politics, and emerging factions within the SLPP ahead of future internal party elections and contests. Mansaray’s comments have further fueled public debate about unity within the ruling party, as conversations continue regarding the influence of political movements and key figures in the SLPP.

Mansaray Remanded for Nle 50,000 Bank Cheque Fraud Ibrahim Mansaray, 35, a businessman, has been formally remanded to the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown by Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah of Pademba Road Court No. 1, pending trial on two counts related to financial impropriety. The defendant faces charges of issuing a cheque against insufficient funds, violating Section 42(1)(3) of the Payment System Act of 2009, and fraudulent conversion, contravening Section 20(1)(iv)(a) of the Larceny Act of 1916. The particulars of the first count specify that on Monday, 20th April 2026, at No. 26 Siaka Steven Street, Western Area, Freetown, Mr. Mansaray allegedly issued a Sierra Leone Commercial Bank Limited cheque (Serial No. 04730442), valued at fifty thousand Leones (LSL 50,000), to Alusine A. Jalloh from account number 003013168547112109, despite possessing knowledge of inadequate account balances. The second count alleges that on 17th March 2026, at the same location, Mr. Mansaray fraudulently converted forty units of toner ink, each valued at two thousand Leones (LSL 2,000), resulting in a total value of eighty thousand Leones (LSL 80,000). These goods were reportedly entrusted to him by Alhaji Alusine Jalloh specifically for sale purposes. No plea was entered upon the reading and explanation of the charges, consistent with the nature of a committal proceeding. The prosecution, represented by Tommy B. Zizer Esq., submitted a copy of the witness statement to the defense counsel. E.J. Aruna Esq., counsel for the defendant, formally requested a brief adjournment to thoroughly review the documentation provided by the prosecution. Magistrate Jah declined the application for bail and ordered the remand of Mr. Mansaray to the Male Correctional Facility. The matter has been adjourned until 1st June 2026.

SLBA Presidential Candidate Martina Egbenda Pledges Unity and Professional Excellence Distinguished legal practitioner Martina Baindu Egbenda has formally announced her candidacy for the presidency of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) in anticipation of the forthcoming Annual General Meeting. With an extensive background in public service and legal administration, Ms. Egbenda has articulated a strategic vision predicated upon the pillars of institutional unity, professional excellence, and the robust advancement of the collective interests of the Sierra Leonean legal fraternity. In her official declaration, Ms. Egbenda advocated for a cohesive and progressive Association dedicated to the promotion of the rule of law and the substantive development of its membership. She emphasized the necessity of an integrated Bar capable of operating with singular purpose and restored institutional gravity. The candidate further asserted that her leadership would be characterized by a commitment to service, inter-professional collaboration, and inclusive governance. She underscored that the strength of the Association is derived from collective action and invited the membership to join in a collaborative effort to fortify the institution. Ms. Egbenda presently serves as the Administrator and Registrar General of Sierra Leone. Her prior professional tenure includes significant senior roles, notably as the Director of Legal and Corporate Affairs at the National Revenue Authority (NRA). Her career is further distinguished by contributions to judicial reform and legal development through her work with the Sierra Leone Legal Information Institute (SierraLII) and the Constitutional Review Committee. As a premier professional body, the Sierra Leone Bar Association continues to serve as a vital arbiter of legal ethics and constitutionalism. The upcoming elections represent a pivotal moment for the legal community to determine the future trajectory and standards of the profession.

Benin defeats Sierra Leone 3-0 in U-17 Women's World Cup Qualifier Sierra Leone’s Under-17 Women’s National Team was defeated 3–0 by Benin in the first leg of their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup second-round qualifier on Monday, 25 May 2026, at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo. This aggregate deficit presents a significant challenge for Sierra Leone heading into the return fixture scheduled for 29 May, which is also expected to be hosted in Lomé under CAF’s designated neutral venue policy. Benin established control early in the contest. Romaine Gandonou capitalized on a defensive error to secure the opening goal in the 16th minute, granting the Amazons U17 a deserved lead. Sierra Leone struggled to develop organized possession, as Benin maintained superior pressing intensity and tactical control throughout the opening half. Upon resumption, Sierra Leone displayed renewed offensive intent but conceded shortly after the hour mark. Diane Dogbé extended Benin’s advantage in the 57th minute, concluding a coordinated offensive movement that exploited structural vulnerabilities in Sierra Leone’s defensive alignment. Gandonou subsequently completed her brace in the 67th minute with a composed finish, establishing the final 3–0 scoreline. From a tactical perspective, Sierra Leone exhibited deficiencies in several critical areas: Defensive Structure: The back line was repeatedly compromised by Benin’s wide attacking rotations and diagonal runs. Midfield Transition: Limited control in the central midfield zone hindered effective ball progression under pressure. Game Management: Following the second conceded goal, Sierra Leone’s tactical shape deteriorated, enabling Benin to dominate spatial control between the lines. In contrast, Benin executed a disciplined strategic plan, characterized by high pressing, successful retrieval of second balls, and efficient exploitation of half-spaces. Romaine Gandonou was the most influential performer for Benin, registering two goals and dictating the attacking tempo. Diane Dogbé also demonstrated effective movement and clinical execution. For Sierra Leone, the goalkeeper and defensive units were heavily engaged under continuous pressure, lacking sufficient protective cover from the midfield during prolonged Benin attacks. The three-goal deficit creates a challenging qualification scenario requiring significant tactical improvement and near-perfect defensive discipline in the return leg. While the tie remains mathematically viable, progression necessitates a strong tactical response, early goal impact, and improved structural compactness from Sierra Leone. Despite this setback, the fixture underscores Sierra Leone’s ongoing engagement in elite youth women’s football, reflecting gradual progress in domestic talent cultivation. Players such as Memunatu Bangura, originating from the domestic league system, represent a viable pipeline for future senior national teams, although competitive exposure and depth remain key areas for development. 🇧🇯 Benin 3–0 Sierra Leone 🇸🇱 Goals: Gandonou (16’, 67’); Dogbé (57’) Venue: Stade de Kégué, Lomé Date: 25 May 2026 (First Leg) Sierra Leone must now focus on strategic adjustments for the return fixture to address the deficit and maintain qualification viability.

Wilberforce Strikers 1-0 Victory Over FC Kallon Bolsters Campaign Wilberforce Strikers FC achieved a critical 1-0 victory against FC Kallon in a tightly contested fixture during Week 28 of the Leone Rock Premier League on May 25, 2026, played at the Approved Schools playing field. The result awards Wilberforce Strikers three vital points, significantly bolstering their position in the relegation avoidance campaign. FC Kallon initiated the encounter with significant attacking intent, demonstrating fluid ball movement and effective penetration into the final third. Despite generating several promising sequences, forward Ishmael Baba Sheriff was unable to convert key opportunities early in the game. Wilberforce Strikers FC subsequently stabilized their performance, establishing control after the initial ten minutes and applying sustained pressure on the FC Kallon defense. The decisive moment arrived in the 19th minute when Bai Mansaray successfully capitalized on a chance, registering the only goal of the match. Following the goal, FC Kallon attempted to restore equilibrium and momentum, but the half concluded with the Strikers maintaining their 1-0 lead, as confirmed by Central Referee Umu Marrah. The second half saw both sides return with palpable determination. FC Kallon displayed greater structural cohesion and returned to their characteristic possession-based style of play. However, they continued to struggle with finishing, as Nathalie Jalloh failed to convert two distinct opportunities within the first ten minutes of the restart. Wilberforce Strikers' offensive attempts were limited, including two long-range efforts by Randy M. George. Despite failing to extend their advantage, Wilberforce Strikers FC executed a disciplined defensive performance to preserve the single-goal margin, securing the victory. FC Kallon now prepares for their forthcoming fixture against Port Authority FC on Sunday at the same venue, where they will seek to register their first win.

AGL’s $60M Port Expansion: Freetown's Trade Gateway Potential? At the busy Queen Elizabeth II Quay in Freetown, giant cargo containers move slowly across ageing port infrastructure that has for years struggled under the pressure of growing trade demands, limited modernization, and mounting regional competition. For decades, Sierra Leone’s main seaport has remained both a strategic national asset and a symbol of unrealized economic potential plagued by infrastructure gaps, operational inefficiencies, and recurring concerns over logistics capacity. Now, Africa Global Logistics, commonly known as AGL, says it intends to change that narrative through a sweeping $60 million investment package aimed at transforming the Port of Freetown into a modern regional trade and logistics hub. But beyond the headlines and investment figures, the ambitious announcement raises a deeper question increasingly being asked by economists, port observers, and ordinary Sierra Leoneans alike: Will this finally mark the beginning of sustainable maritime transformation for Sierra Leone — or simply another cycle of infrastructure promises without long-term structural impact? Speaking during a media engagement at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay on May 25, AGL Regional Managing Director Fabjanko Kokan outlined an aggressive modernization agenda that includes major equipment upgrades, quay rehabilitation, renewable energy investment, expanded logistics capacity, and workforce development. The investment comes at a critical moment for Sierra Leone’s economy, where policymakers have increasingly identified maritime trade and logistics as central to future economic diversification efforts. Despite Sierra Leone’s strategic Atlantic coastline and proximity to major shipping routes, analysts say the Port of Freetown has historically operated below its full regional potential compared to larger and more technologically advanced West African ports in countries such as Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal. Trade experts have long argued that inadequate port infrastructure, cargo handling limitations, congestion risks, and inconsistent modernization have weakened Sierra Leone’s competitiveness in regional maritime commerce. The latest AGL announcement appears designed to directly address some of those concerns. According to the company, over $5 million worth of equipment has already been delivered and is currently being operated by Sierra Leonean personnel following technical training conducted by experts from Côte d’Ivoire. Additional machinery worth more than $24 million has reportedly been ordered, including a ship-to-shore crane valued at $13.6 million, two rubber-tyred gantry cranes worth $6.5 million, electric terminal tractors, forklifts, reach stackers, and empty handlers. The company also plans to invest approximately $25 million in the rehabilitation of quays 3 to 6 sections considered critical to operational safety and cargo efficiency at the port. Other infrastructure projects include a new power plant upgrade, solar energy installation, administrative complex, documentation building, and paving works covering 13,000 square metres. Combined, the projects amount to one of the largest recent private-sector logistics investments publicly announced in Sierra Leone. For Sierra Leone, the implications extend beyond port operations alone. Economists note that efficient ports are often directly linked to national trade competitiveness, investment attraction, customs efficiency, and overall economic productivity. The Port of Freetown serves as a critical gateway for imports and exports tied to key sectors including mining, agriculture, construction, telecommunications, oil and gas, and manufacturing. Any major improvement in cargo handling efficiency or logistics turnaround time could significantly affect the cost of doing business in Sierra Leone. However, infrastructure specialists caution that physical expansion alone may not fully resolve deeper systemic challenges affecting trade facilitation. Issues surrounding customs processes, regulatory coordination, energy reliability, maritime governance, and broader transport connectivity remain equally important if Sierra Leone hopes to compete regionally. “There is no doubt the infrastructure investment is significant,” one maritime analyst noted. “But the true test will be operational efficiency, maintenance culture, transparency, and how these improvements integrate into wider national trade systems.” Captain Kokan emphasized that over 99 percent of AGL’s workforce consists of Sierra Leoneans, while also highlighting efforts to improve female participation and technical capacity development within port operations. He further stated that Sierra Leoneans and the government collectively hold 20 percent shares in the company a detail likely intended to reinforce national participation in the project’s economic benefits. “This port belongs to Sierra Leone,” Kokan declared. “The people and the government hold 20 percent of the company’s shares, and we will continue to ensure that Sierra Leoneans reap maximum benefits from this investment.” The company also announced parallel social investment initiatives, including the construction of a school in Northern Sierra Leone expected to increase enrolment capacity from 305 to 605 pupils, alongside scholarship support, food assistance, and agricultural programs. Furthermore, economic and labor analysts contend that the enduring success of this capital injection hinges on the substantive integration of Sierra Leonean professionals across the organizational hierarchy—extending beyond frontline operations into senior management, technical oversight, procurement, and the broader maritime value chain. This modernization initiative coincides with a period of intense regional activity, as several West African nations aggressively expand their port infrastructure to secure international shipping routes and establish themselves as premier logistics hubs. Significant upgrades in Tema, Abidjan, Dakar, and Lomé have heightened regional competition for maritime dominance, compelling Sierra Leone to not only revitalize its physical assets but also to enhance operational efficiency, ensure policy consistency, and bolster investor confidence. At the Queen Elizabeth II Quay, the juxtaposition of modern machinery and legacy infrastructure serves as a poignant reminder of the port's transition. For the local workforce, these developments represent more than mere trade metrics; they symbolize a pathway toward sustainable employment, national advancement, and the realization of Sierra Leone’s strategic maritime potential. Ultimately, the discourse surrounding the Port of Freetown has shifted from a narrative of deficiency to one of immense potential, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s economic trajectory.

IPAM Transforms Education: Partnerships Bridge Skill Gap, Empowering Graduates The contemporary labor market in Sierra Leone is characterized by a significant discrepancy between academic attainment and industrial requirements. Higher education graduates frequently encounter structural unemployment due to a lack of technical proficiency and entrepreneurial experience, necessitating a shift in pedagogical focus toward practical skill acquisition. In response to these socio-economic challenges, the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) has initiated a comprehensive institutional transformation. Under the leadership of Deputy Vice Chancellor Ezekiel Kalvin Duramany-Lakkoh, the institution has formalized several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with vocational training centers and entrepreneurship-focused organizations to embed practical learning frameworks within the academic curriculum. These agreements constitute a core component of the Strategic Repositioning, Rebranding, and Transformation Agenda. This policy framework aims to synchronize higher education outputs with current labor market demands and national youth empowerment strategies. The partnership network includes REAPS Technical and Vocational Institute and the SLEEK Entrepreneurship Academy. Additional strategic collaborators include Stay Okay Enterprise, Vision Investment and Digital Tech Hub, Environmental Youth Empowerment, and the Thimzy Empowerment Initiative. The primary objective of this framework is the cultivation of dually-qualified graduates possessing both theoretical knowledge and specialized technical competencies. Such a dual-track approach is hypothesized to enhance graduate employability and facilitate sustainable self-reliance. The initiative addresses the historical disconnect between traditional classroom instruction and the complex expectations of the private and public sectors. By mitigating this gap, the institution seeks to remove substantial barriers to entry for new professionals. Sector stakeholders emphasize that contemporary human capital requirements favor candidates capable of autonomous problem-solving and institutional innovation. Consequently, the reliance on certification alone is insufficient for long-term career stability in a dynamic economic landscape. Persistent levels of graduate underemployment remain a critical variable in Sierra Leone's macroeconomic discourse. The difficulty of transitioning from tertiary education to established professional tracks suggests a systemic need for reform. Education policy analysts argue for a transition from theory-centric models to market-responsive, skills-oriented learning. The current initiatives at IPAM represent an institutional alignment with these broader academic and economic recommendations. The collaborative framework provides students with concurrent exposure to vocational training and entrepreneurship mentorship during their degree programs. This integrated model is designed to facilitate immediate industry relevance. Proponents suggest that such partnerships improve labor market outcomes and stimulate innovation-driven self-employment. Furthermore, for students from marginalized economic backgrounds, the acquisition of income-generating competencies serves as a vital safeguard against post-graduation instability. Following the formalization of these partnerships, the administration acknowledged the contributions of all supporting entities involved in the execution of this strategic initiative. This development signifies a paradigmatic shift within the Sierra Leonean higher education sector, necessitated by the imperative for institutional relevance and global competitiveness. The evolving student demographic prioritizes the acquisition of resilient skill sets that enable navigation of challenging economic environments and the creation of new market opportunities. In conclusion, the strategic measures adopted by IPAM redefine the traditional scope of higher education, transitioning toward a comprehensive model that integrates academic excellence with practical professional utility.