Search Results

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has called on Guinea to fully withdraw its troops from the disputed Yenga border enclave, bringing renewed regional attention to one of Sierra Leone’s longest-standing territorial disputes. The appeal was contained in the final communiqué issued at the conclusion of the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, held at the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre in Lungi. During the summit, regional leaders reviewed major political, security and governance issues affecting member states. While welcoming the recent partial reopening of the Yenga border crossing by Sierra Leone and Guinea, the Authority stressed that further action is required to fully implement commitments previously agreed by both countries. “The Authority commends the authorities of Sierra Leone and Guinea for the partial reopening of the Yenga border, and further urges Guinean authorities to fully withdraw their troops from Yenga and Lofa in accordance with the Tripartite Communiqué of March 2026 and continue to pursue diplomatic solutions,” the communiqué stated. To facilitate a lasting resolution, ECOWAS directed its Commission to expedite technical assessments of border friction points and collaborate with the Mano River Union (MRU), the African Union (AU), and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) in developing sustainable solutions. Beyond the border dispute, the regional bloc welcomed progress under Sierra Leone’s Agreement for National Unity between the Government and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC), describing recent reconciliation efforts as encouraging developments ahead of the country’s 2028 general elections. ECOWAS also commended President Julius Maada Bio’s decision to discontinue legal proceedings against former President Ernest Bai Koroma, describing the move as a significant contribution to national reconciliation and political stability. The Authority further encouraged political parties and other national stakeholders to sustain dialogue while ensuring that constitutional and electoral reforms are implemented in an inclusive, transparent and peaceful manner. On regional security, ECOWAS reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism and violent extremism across the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin, reiterating plans to operationalise the ECOWAS Counterterrorism Brigade by 2027. The summit also saw Sierra Leone secure a strategic position within the ECOWAS Commission, with Francess Piagie Alghali appointed Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, further strengthening the country’s role in advancing the bloc’s peace, security and governance agenda. The resolutions adopted at the summit underscore ECOWAS’ continued commitment to promoting peaceful resolution of the Yenga border dispute, strengthening democratic governance, and supporting political stability in Sierra Leone and across the West African region.

A bench warrant has been issued for the arrest of Komba Kaminty, a laborer accused of visa fraud, along with his surety, following their failure to appear at the Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 2. Magistrate John Manso Fornah ordered the warrants after both parties missed the scheduled hearing. Kaminty faces two counts of obtaining money by false pretenses under the Larceny Act 1916. Prosecutors allege that between February and April 2024, Kaminty defrauded two individuals by promising to secure travel visas to Brazil. The charges include: US$5,000: Allegedly received from Isatu Bangura (via Mamoud Jalloh) under the false pretense of securing visas for Yusif, Fatmata, and Bai Bangura. US$2,000: Allegedly taken from Agnes Wotto (via Christiana Niccol) for promised visa procurement. The case has been adjourned until July 27, 2026, pending further proceedings.

Mogbwemo Queens FC have bolstered their squad ahead of the WAFU A CAF Women’s Champions League Qualifiers by securing the services of FC Kallon Female winger Adama Jalloh on a short-term loan deal. The reigning 2025/2026 Marampa Women’s Premier League champions are preparing to represent Sierra Leone in the regional competition and have moved to strengthen their attacking options with the addition of the talented winger. Jalloh is expected to bring pace, creativity, and attacking flair to the team as Mogbwemo Queens aim to make a strong impression in the WAFU A qualifiers and compete for a place in the CAF Women’s Champions League. The loan move is seen as a significant boost for the champions, who continue to reinforce their squad ahead of the highly anticipated regional tournament. Mogbwemo Queens and their supporters have expressed confidence that Jalloh’s quality and experience will contribute positively to the team’s campaign, while extending best wishes to the winger as she embarks on the new challenge.

Forty-five instructors from the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), including female personnel, have departed Sierra Leone for Ghana to participate in a seven-week capacity-building programme aimed at enhancing their professional skills and strengthening the country’s military training system. The instructors left the country on Friday, 17th July 2026, as part of ongoing efforts by the RSLAF to improve the quality of instruction and ensure its training programmes align with international standards and operational requirements. Speaking about the initiative, Assistant Chief of Defence Staff for Training, Doctrine and Education, Brig. Gen. Kwame Francis Kanu, said the programme forms part of broader efforts by the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura, to enhance the capacity and professionalism of RSLAF personnel. Brig. Gen. Kanu explained that the programme is designed to strengthen the knowledge, techniques and instructional abilities of RSLAF trainers, who play a critical role in preparing and developing other members of the armed forces. He noted that building the capacity of instructors remains essential to maintaining a professional military force capable of effectively responding to national and international responsibilities. The inclusion of female instructors in the programme reflects the RSLAF’s commitment to promoting equal opportunities for professional growth and development within the armed forces. The seven-week course in Ghana is expected to expose participants to modern instructional methods and best practices that will contribute to improving the overall standard of military education and training in Sierra Leone. The RSLAF said the initiative supports its broader objective of promoting professionalism, competence and operational readiness among its personnel.

Presidential Spokesman Alpha Kanu has dismissed claims circulating on social media that former President Ernest Bai Koroma snubbed him during the recent ECOWAS Summit, insisting that the two exchanged greetings, shook hands and had a brief conversation. Speaking on Radio Democracy 98.1 FM, Kanu responded to online speculation suggesting that the former President ignored him when he approached him during the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government held at the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre in Lungi. Rejecting the claims, Kanu said the encounter was cordial and reflected the long-standing relationship between him and the former President. “Ein say, ‘Hi Mr. Khan,’ ar reply, ‘Hello Nesto.’ Ein kin call me Mr. Khan, ar call am Nesto,” Kanu recalled, describing his interaction with Koroma. Kanu explained that “Mr. Khan” was a familiar name Koroma used to call him, highlighting the personal relationship they developed over the years. He added that during Koroma’s presidency, the former Head of State usually addressed him as “Alpha” or “Mr. Minister” rather than “Mr. Khan.” “When he was President, he didn’t call me Mr. Khan; rather Alpha or Mr. Minister,” Kanu said, explaining that their exchange at the summit demonstrated that their relationship remained cordial despite political differences. Kanu further expressed happiness over Koroma’s return to Sierra Leone, describing the former President’s presence in the country as a positive development that could contribute to stability and national cohesion. “I am happy he has returned home,” he said, describing Koroma as “my friend and brother.” According to Kanu, Koroma’s return means he can now visit him in Makeni instead of travelling to Nigeria to meet him. The Presidential Spokesman also addressed discussions surrounding his decision to leave the opposition All People’s Congress (APC), saying the move did not come as a surprise to Koroma. Kanu explained that the former President was aware of his decision before he officially left the party in 2023. His comments followed widespread social media discussions about the interaction between the two political figures during the ECOWAS Summit, with some users alleging that Koroma had ignored him during the event. However, Kanu rejected that narrative, maintaining that the two men shared a respectful and friendly encounter.

Statistics SL Launches Mock Census in Dodo Chiefdom Statistics Sierra Leone (STATS SL) officially inaugurated the 2026 Mock Census in Dodo Chiefdom, Kenema District, on Sunday, July 19, 2026, with a ceremony held in the sectional headquarters of Bowohun. The launch event featured a series of community engagement activities, including stakeholder meetings, loudspeaker announcements, and door-to-door reminders. A parade consisting of branded vehicles and motorbikes toured local villages, accompanied by public address systems, cultural displays, and announcements delivered in local languages to raise awareness for the exercise. Vandy Saawah, the Mock Census Field Coordinator for Dodo Chiefdom, noted that the exercise is designed to test operational procedures and identify potential challenges, ensuring a stronger strategy ahead of the national Population and Housing Census set for December 2026. Traditional authorities reaffirmed their commitment to the process. Chief Brima Momodu Kuteh, Senior Section Chief, promised the full cooperation of residents, while Chief Mohamed Kallon of Gaulah expressed appreciation for the selection of Mbowohun for the pilot exercise. District Census Officer (DCO) for Kenema, Bockarie Luwama, urged households to prepare for the enumeration phase, which commenced on July 20, 2026. He further instructed supervisors and enumerators to proceed to their assigned areas to conduct accurate and timely data collection. The mock exercise in Dodo Chiefdom will span three sections, simulating the complete processes required for the national census later this year.

Six Countries Gear Up for ICC U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifiers Sierra Leone is set to compete in the upcoming ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Division 2 Africa Qualifier, taking place in Kigali, Rwanda, from August 9 to 15, 2026. The tournament will feature a field of six nations, including Uganda, Mozambique, Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and the hosts, Rwanda. Teams are competing for one of three coveted spots in the next stage of the ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup qualification pathway. Sierra Leone opens its campaign on August 9 with a high-stakes match against regional rivals Ghana, followed by a fixture against host nation Rwanda. These opening games are critical as the team seeks a strong start to the tournament. This upcoming competition carries significant weight, evoking memories of Sierra Leone’s historic 2009 achievement when the team qualified for the global ICC Under-19 World Cup following a dominant performance at the Africa Championships in Zambia. Despite earning a spot in the Toronto tournament, the team was ultimately unable to participate due to visa challenges. As the Kigali tournament approaches, Sierra Leone’s young cricketers are focused on a new chapter, aiming to secure qualification and keep their dreams of reaching the global stage alive.

AYV Miss University 2026 Launched with Focus on Leadership and "Beauty With Brains" The African Young Voices (AYV) Media Empire, in collaboration with the National Union of Sierra Leone Students (NUSS) and sponsored by Africell, launched the AYV Miss University 2026 pageant on Thursday, July 16, at the Freetown City Council Building. Under the theme “Redefining Beauty Through Purpose and Leadership,” the competition aims to pivot away from traditional beauty standards, placing a stronger emphasis on intellectual capacity, leadership abilities, and community impact. AYV's Consultant Managing Director Umaru Fofana described the launch as a deliberate effort to evolve the perception of pageantry. “We’re looking for women that are beautiful and brainy for Miss University 2026,” Fofana stated, noting that the organization is committed to creating platforms that allow young women to demonstrate their full potential beyond physical appearance. NUSS President Fiona Ngima highlighted that the initiative is designed to rewrite the script on how society evaluates women. “For too long, beauty has been defined by the surface... but here today we’re rewriting that script,” Ngima said, explaining that the pageant seeks to develop leaders who view the crown as a responsibility to inspire others. The launch drew support from key government figures, including the Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, who praised the pageant as a tool for youth empowerment and community service. Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Dr. Khadijatu Grace Kamara, who officiated the ceremony, pledged her support for mentoring contestants, emphasizing the potential for Sierra Leonean women to excel as national ambassadors. Fatima Kamara, the reigning AYV Miss University, encouraged prospective applicants to participate, citing personal growth and networking opportunities as key benefits of the journey. The launch also featured musical performances by Trice and Lil Trump. Applications are now open nationwide for female university students interested in the platform, which organizers say will offer mentorship, leadership development, and networking opportunities alongside the competition.

Tongo Residents Urgently Appeal for Operational Police Vehicle to Bolster Security Residents of Tongo have issued an urgent appeal to the Government of Sierra Leone and the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) for the provision of an operational vehicle for the Tongo Police Division. Community members argue that the current lack of transport is severely undermining law enforcement efforts and public safety in the township and its surrounding areas. According to local representatives, the absence of a functional vehicle makes it difficult for officers to respond to emergencies in a timely manner. The issue is particularly acute in remote communities that rely heavily on the Tongo division for routine patrols and incident response. Residents expressed concern that these logistical gaps hinder the police’s ability to conduct investigations and maintain a consistent presence in the area. "Investing in police logistics is an investment in public safety and local development," community members stated. They emphasized that a reliable vehicle would enable officers to reach crime scenes faster, improve collaboration with neighboring divisions, and strengthen the overall effectiveness of community policing. Community leaders and youth representatives are calling on the government, the SLP, and development partners to treat the request with urgency. They believe that providing the necessary resources is essential to protecting lives and property, as well as maintaining the trust and confidence of the public in law enforcement.

Bo Rangers Withdrawal Puts CAF Champions League Participation in Jeopardy Bo Rangers FC, the reigning Premier League champions, are reportedly poised to withdraw from the upcoming CAF Champions League amid severe financial challenges. The club faces a funding shortfall of approximately US$250,000 required to sustain their continental campaign, and attempts to bridge this gap have so far proven unsuccessful. While financial constraints have been widely cited, emerging reports suggest a strategic shift for the club. A reliable source indicates that the organization views the competition primarily as a showcase for young talent, noting that approximately 85 percent of the current squad consists of veteran players. The club appears to be prioritizing a long-term rebuilding phase, opting to invest resources into securing younger talent rather than proceeding with a campaign they view as having limited prospects. This decision reportedly influenced the club's choice not to complete the necessary licensing requirements for the tournament. If the withdrawal is confirmed, it will represent a significant setback for the team’s staff and their supporters following a triumphant domestic season. While there is speculation that Star Sport Academy may be considered as a replacement to represent Sierra Leone, football authorities have not yet issued an official confirmation, pending formal verification of the situation. This development has prompted wider discussions regarding the financial sustainability of professional football in Sierra Leone and the significant hurdles clubs face when attempting to move from domestic success to continental participation.

Police Appeal for Information After Unidentified Body Found in Kenema Authorities in Kenema are seeking the public's assistance in identifying a man whose body was discovered early Saturday morning, July 18, 2026, in the Longo Town community. Local chiefs Shiaka Ngombulango and Mohamed Moseray Mohabia alerted the Kenema Division of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) to the scene at approximately 06:00 hours. Upon arrival, officers confirmed the deceased was a male, though his identity and residence remain unknown. Despite an initial investigation, authorities have yet to uncover details regarding the circumstances surrounding the death or locate any next of kin. Local Unit Commander (LUC) Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Emmanuel Kpulun is urging anyone with information about the individual or the incident to come forward to the nearest police station. In response to the discovery, the SLP has issued a stern warning against mob justice, reminding the public that all grievances and suspicions must be addressed through established legal channels. The body has been transported to the Kenema Government Hospital mortuary, where a postmortem examination will be conducted to determine the cause of death. The Divisional Criminal Investigation Department (DCID) is currently leading an active investigation into the matter.

Witness Testifies in $7,000 Infiniti Jeep Theft Case A theft trial regarding a bottle green Infiniti QX4 valued at US$7,000 continued this week, as the complainant, Abubakarr Barrie, provided testimony at the Pademba Road Magistrate Court. The accused, Amadu Jalloh, remains remanded as proceedings move forward. According to testimony, the case originated in June 2023, when Barrie entrusted his vehicle, registration number ATY 897, to Jalloh for repairs, providing NLe8,000 for shock absorbers and engine oil. Barrie testified that after a week-long delay, he returned to the garage to find the vehicle missing. The accused allegedly claimed the Jeep had been parked in a secure compound, but the vehicle was nowhere to be found upon inspection. Barrie recounted his efforts to locate the Jeep, alleging that Jalloh initially evaded capture before being apprehended by the complainant at Texaco. During a subsequent confrontation, a third party identified as Pa Beh reportedly confirmed that Jalloh had the vehicle and had pledged to repay the owner. Police Constable 18235 T.K. presented evidence, including the arrest warrant issued for Jalloh, which was executed in Kabala and tendered to the court as Exhibit A. The matter has been adjourned until July 27, 2026, for further hearings.