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Luawa FC Secures Hard-Fought Draw Against League Leaders Bo Rangers In a resilient display of defensive discipline, Luawa FC held the Leone Rock Premier League frontrunners, Bo Rangers, to a goalless stalemate on Friday, May 29, 2026, at the Approved School Field. The first half was characterized by high-intensity exchanges and several definitive goal-scoring opportunities. While Bo Rangers forward Musa Kamara remained a persistent offensive threat, Luawa FC goalkeeper Seydou Sankouba Toure produced an exemplary performance, executing a series of critical saves to maintain the deadlock. Luawa FC demonstrated significant attacking intent throughout the match, yet they were consistently thwarted by the experienced defensive partnership of Lamin Conteh and Lamin Kargbo, who ensured the visitors remained unscathed. The intensity escalated following the interval, with Bo Rangers mounting significant pressure around the 65-minute mark. However, Luawa FC’s defensive unit remained steadfast. Conversely, Luawa striker Alhajie S. Sondoh found himself with late opportunities to secure a victory but was unable to convert. Despite persistent efforts from both sides to break the impasse, the contest concluded without a goal. The result sees Luawa FC earn a commendable point against the league leaders, reflecting their competitive growth in the top flight.

VP Jalloh Unveils Modernized Government Printing Department in Freetown Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has officially commissioned the modernized Government Printing Department, marking a transformative shift for the historic institution into a high-capacity industrial printing hub. The relaunch ceremony, held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at the department’s New England Ville headquarters, brought together senior government officials and development partners to celebrate what authorities characterized as a pivotal milestone in institutional renewal and economic self-sufficiency. Executed through a strategic partnership with the DeMing Group, the modernization project introduced advanced digital and offset technology, comprehensive post-processing systems, and upgraded administrative facilities, including a modern exhibition showroom. Addressing the assembly, Vice President Jalloh emphasized that the initiative represents a broader commitment to restoring national prestige and state efficiency. “Today, we are not simply reopening a department; we are restoring national pride,” Dr. Jalloh remarked. “By modernizing state capacity, we demonstrate our resolve to transform legacy institutions into dynamic engines for development.” The Vice President revealed that the project has already secured over $2 million in initial investment, with an additional $5 million projected over the next two years. The upgraded infrastructure is expected to mitigate Sierra Leone’s reliance on overseas printing, enhance the security of state documents, and bolster the “Made in Sierra Leone” initiative through revenue generation and job creation. “This institution is now a vivid realization that our public bodies can rise again,” Dr. Jalloh added, expressing confidence that the department will achieve financial autonomy by the conclusion of 2026. He further expressed optimism that the Government Printing Department would become financially self-sustaining by the end of 2026. “Moving forward, the Government Printing Department will transition from a consumer of public resources to a contributor to the national treasury, supporting broader economic activity.” Government Printer Salifu Suma hailed the relaunch as a “new dawn” for one of the nation’s oldest institutions. Established in 1794, the department was a pioneer in West African government printing. Suma noted that while the department had faced decades of technological stagnation, the new partnership positions the agency to meet rigorous international standards. He further assured that staff welfare would remain central to the transition, with programs in place to upgrade the skills of existing personnel to match the new technology. “Our ambition is to transform this department into a competitive enterprise capable of serving not just Sierra Leone, but the entire sub-region,” Suma concluded.

Spencer-Coker Announces Candidacy for SLBA Vice Presidency Veteran legal practitioner Nicky Spencer-Coker has officially declared her candidacy for the Vice Presidency of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) for the 2026/2027 term. In a formal statement to the Bar, Spencer-Coker characterized her decision as one rooted in “humility, conviction, and a deep sense of professional responsibility,” signaling her readiness to serve at a pivotal juncture for both the legal profession and the nation. Her platform is anchored on a vision for institutional renewal, focusing specifically on the need for unity and strengthened professional solidarity within the Association. “Leadership is service,” Spencer-Coker emphasized, noting that the role requires a combination of courage, integrity, and the competence necessary to foster a more inclusive and progressive institution. With nearly 14 years of experience as a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of Sierra Leone, Spencer-Coker brings a diverse background in both national and international legal service. Her career includes roles as State Counsel at the Law Officers Department, Defence Counsel at the Legal Aid Board, and an international diplomatic posting as First Secretary and Spokesperson of Sierra Leone’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations. Additionally, she has held significant leadership positions as Vice-President of L.A.W.Y.E.R.S and as the first female Secretary of the General Legal Council. “These experiences have strengthened my belief that the legal profession must remain a fearless guardian of constitutionalism, human rights, and democratic governance,” she stated. As the SLBA prepares for its upcoming election cycle later this year, Spencer-Coker has called upon her colleagues for their support in her bid to lead the Association toward a more united and impactful future.

DG Bio Honoured with Africa-UK Diaspora Trade Award for Leadership The Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), Yankuba Askia Bio, was reportedly conferred with the prestigious Africa-UK Diaspora Trade Award on Friday, May 29, 2026, at the annual Africa-UK Diaspora Trade and Investment Summit and Awards in London. The recognition was granted for his exemplary leadership and considerable contributions to national development. The award’s citation recognized Mr. Bio for his "outstanding leadership in port operations and management." It was further stated that the honour cited his commitment to improving efficiency, driving innovation, and advancing Sierra Leone’s maritime sector. This most recent honour was said to complement the existing domestic and international recognitions received by Mr. Bio for his transformative impact on the maritime industry and to underscore his sustained commitment to efficiency, innovation, and sector development. The Africa-UK Diaspora Trade and Investment Summit and Awards was described as an annual forum intended to convene entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and business leaders to strengthen trade and investment links between Africa and the United Kingdom.

Mayor Warns Against "Clean Salone Boys" Illegal Waste Disposal The Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, has issued a formal advisory to residents regarding the engagement of unauthorized waste collectors, commonly known as "Clean Salone boys." Investigations have confirmed that these informal operators frequently engage in the illegal disposal of refuse in public thoroughfares and communal spaces across the municipality. Mayor Aki-Sawyerr emphasized the necessity of utilizing Freetown City Council (FCC) certified waste service providers. The continued reliance on unverified collectors significantly exacerbates the capital's sanitation challenges and undermines public health initiatives. "We urge all citizens to cease the delegation of waste disposal to unauthorized street collectors, as this practice leads directly to the accumulation of litter on our streets. For professional and regulated waste management services, please contact the municipal hotline at 8244 to reach a certified provider," stated the Mayor. Reports indicate that many informal collectors fail to utilize designated disposal sites, opting instead to abandon refuse at road junctions and within drainage systems. This conduct directly conflicts with the FCC’s strategic objectives to maintain a clean and sustainable urban environment. The Mayor noted that these practices hinder the council's ongoing efforts to enhance sanitation standards and preserve the aesthetic and environmental integrity of Freetown’s communities. This directive is a core component of the FCC’s broader regulatory enforcement campaign. The Council mandates that all household and commercial waste disposal must be managed exclusively through licensed operators integrated into the municipal waste management infrastructure. Under the "Dorti Mus Go" reform framework and existing sanitation bylaws, the dumping of waste in public spaces, including waterways and gutters, is strictly prohibited. Individuals found in violation of these regulations will be subject to significant fines and legal penalties. The FCC has established several resources to facilitate compliance, including professional service providers, organized tricycle collection units, and dedicated transfer stations, all accessible via the 8244 sanitation hotline. The Council maintains a rigorous schedule of street cleansing and community sanitation exercises to address the ongoing logistical requirements of urban waste management. In conclusion, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr called for full public cooperation with these measures, warning that non-compliance poses substantial environmental risks and threatens the collective well-being of all Freetown residents.

The case involving Mohamed Moriba, a politician, former military officer, and Southern Province Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the All People’s Congress (APC) in Bo, has advanced at the Pademba Road Court No. 2 in Freetown. Moriba appeared before Magistrate John Manso Fornah on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, facing a charge of incitement contrary to law. According to court documents, the alleged offence occurred on 27 December 2025 in Kamalo Village, Karina Judicial District in the North-East Province, where Moriba is said to have created and circulated audio and video content containing inciting messages intended to cause unrest, disorder, and chaos in the country. The material was reportedly shared on a TikTok account identified as “Salone Gossip Hub.” During proceedings, no plea was taken as the matter is at committal stage. The prosecution, led by Assistant Superintendent of Police Dillia Wellington Esq., called and closed its case after presenting witnesses. The matter was subsequently withdrawn for a ruling. However, defence counsel C. Kamara Esq. informed the court that the defence team intends to file a no-case submission, arguing that the prosecution has not established sufficient evidence to warrant the matter proceeding to trial. The defence requested a short adjournment to prepare the submission. Magistrate Fornah refused bail and ordered that Moriba be remanded at the male correctional facility in Freetown. The case has been adjourned to 3 June 2026 for further proceedings.

Accused Santigie Conteh admits killing Fatmata Conteh in court Proceedings in the murder case of Fatmata Conteh commenced on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at the Masiaka Magistrate Court. The accused, Santigie Conteh, known by the alias "P.Z.," is charged with the fatal stabbing of Ms. Conteh, which occurred on April 27, 2026, in Masiaka Town, Koya Chiefdom, Port Loko Judicial District. During the preliminary investigation, prosecutors presented details of the incident, including a statement attributed to the victim, "Aunty... Aunty... PZ has killed me!". In a development during the session, Santigie Conteh reportedly displayed visible emotion, wept before the magistrate, requested leniency, and offered a public admission, stating, "Please forgive me... I killed her". The Masiaka community is closely monitoring the ongoing legal proceedings.

DSTI's Connectivity Ambitions Clash With Societal Realities The Government of Sierra Leone says it is accelerating efforts to close the country’s digital divide through an ambitious national connectivity drive targeting thousands of schools, universities, and underserved communities. But while officials describe the initiative as evidence of major technological progress, questions remain over whether the country’s digital infrastructure realities fully match the government’s bold claims. Speaking on Truth Media Live on Tuesday, the Head of the Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Jasper Sembie, said Sierra Leone is positioning itself as one of Africa’s emerging digital connectivity success stories through the implementation of the global Giga project. The Giga initiative, a partnership between United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) aims to connect schools worldwide to the internet and improve digital access for millions of children globally. According to Sembie, Sierra Leone’s version of the project seeks to connect 5,000 schools across the country including remote and underserved communities with solar-powered internet access. “This year, we are connecting 403 schools,” Sembie stated during the live broadcast. “As I speak, we have connected over 70 schools in Freetown, both in the Western Area Urban and Western Area Rural, while the remaining connections are ongoing in the provinces.” He explained that the project goes beyond classroom learning, arguing that connected schools are also expected to serve surrounding communities with broader digital access. “This is not just for schools from 9am to 5pm; it will also reach communities,” he said. “Before connection, we will engage the community.” In one of the strongest parts of his interview, Sembie claimed Sierra Leone now enjoys “100% 3G connectivity,” “over 92% 4G coverage,” “100% standalone 5G coverage in the city,” and “100% satellite access across the country.” “So, when it comes to connectivity, Sierra Leone is a leader in the world and we should be impressed by our progress,” he said. However, independent online assessments and consumer experiences present a more complicated picture regarding nationwide digital access and network quality. While Sierra Leone has recorded significant improvements in telecommunications expansion over recent years, particularly in urban centers, publicly available connectivity reports suggest that rural internet access and network reliability remain inconsistent outside major cities. Industry observers note that although mobile operators such as Africell, Orange Sierra Leone, and Qcell have expanded mobile coverage nationwide, internet speed, affordability, electricity supply challenges, and rural network stability continue to affect digital accessibility for many Sierra Leoneans. Publicly available connectivity guides indicate that while parts of Freetown experience relatively stronger 4G services, several rural communities still rely heavily on slower 3G or unstable network connections. Additionally, independent sources reviewing Sierra Leone’s telecom infrastructure have suggested that large-scale standalone 5G deployment remains limited and concentrated within specific urban locations rather than nationwide commercial accessibility. Despite these concerns, Sierra Leone’s partnership with the Giga initiative reflects one of the country’s most ambitious attempts at digital education transformation since the expansion of free quality education policies under President Julius Maada Bio. DSTI previously announced Sierra Leone’s formal participation in Giga through collaboration with UNICEF and ITU as part of broader efforts to advance “Digitization for All.” The initiative focuses on mapping schools, expanding internet infrastructure, mobilizing financing, and supporting governments with digital procurement and connectivity planning. Interestingly, previous DSTI publications referenced ambitions to connect as many as 11,000 schools nationwide under broader digital infrastructure planning involving the Islamic Development Bank and UNICEF partnerships. Sembie also disclosed during the interview that government has already connected over 26 campuses across 13 universities, describing “inclusion” as the central philosophy driving Sierra Leone’s digital agenda. While the government presents digital connectivity as a transformative national achievement, education advocates say internet access alone may not automatically solve deeper structural problems affecting schools in Sierra Leone. Across many rural communities, schools continue to struggle with shortages of trained teachers, electricity supply, learning materials, furniture, and safe infrastructure challenges that could affect the long-term sustainability of internet-based learning systems. Analysts also say maintaining digital infrastructure in remote communities may prove as difficult as deploying it, particularly in areas with weak electricity networks and limited technical support systems. Still, supporters of the initiative argue that expanding internet access into schools could significantly improve educational opportunities, digital literacy, research access, and community development in underserved regions. For many students in remote districts who have never experienced stable internet access, the promise of a connected classroom represents more than technology. It represents access to information, opportunity, and a digital world that much of rural Sierra Leone has historically remained excluded from.

Wurrie's Wardrobe Wins Best Dressed at Met Gala Wurrie’s Wardrobe achieved significant acclaim at the Salone's Met Gala, epitomizing luxury, confidence, and award-winning elegance. Wurrie’s Wardrobe made a striking fashion statement at the Met Gala, delivering a blend of luxury, confidence, and refined class that captured global attention. The brand’s presence on the prestigious red carpet reflected not only bold creativity but also its growing influence in high-end fashion circles, where design, identity, and storytelling intersect. The moment was sealed with recognition as Wurrie’s Wardrobe earned the Best Dressed award alongside a cash prize, reinforcing its rising status in the fashion industry. From the applause to the spotlight, the brand’s Met Gala appearance marked a defining moment in its journey, signaling a clear message that excellence in fashion does not go unnoticed.

Musicians Union Condemns Violence, Supports Singer Vida The Union of Musicians ALL-STARS Sierra Leone issued an official statement on 27 May 2026, expressing profound solidarity with singer Vida following her public disclosure concerning sexual assault. The Union commended her courage, acknowledging the significant emotional fortitude required to share such personal testimony publicly in the face of potential stigma and scrutiny. The organization issued a rigorous condemnation of all forms of sexual and gender-based violence, asserting that no individual should be subjected to abuse or forced intimacy. The Union further urged the public to approach such matters with dignity and empathy, advocating for an end to the harmful attitudes that frequently silence survivors. Reaffirming its dedication to safety and professional integrity, the Union emphasized its commitment to fostering environments within the entertainment industry and broader society where women can operate without fear of exploitation. The statement concluded with a direct message of support to Vida, validating her testimony and ensuring she has the Union's full institutional backing.

A 21-year-old student, Abu Bakarr Kallay, appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah at Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, on a charge of murder. Kallay is alleged to have unlawfully killed Mohamed Bangura on 6 April 2026 at Moeba Kissy in the Western Area of Freetown. According to the particulars of offence, the accused is charged with murder contrary to Section 1 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861, as repealed and replaced by Section 1(a) of the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act 2021 (Act No. 6 of 2022). During court proceedings, the charge was read and explained to the accused, but no plea was taken as the matter is at committal stage. The prosecutor, Chief Superintendent of Police Tommy B. Zizer Esq., informed the court that a copy of his witness statement had been served on the defence, which was acknowledged. Magistrate Jah refused bail, noting that murder is not a bailable offence at the Magistrate Court level. The accused has been remanded in custody, and the case has been adjourned to 2 June 2026 for further hearing.

Daniel Kamara’s 85th-minute free kick earned Abacha City FC a dramatic 2-2 draw against Kamboi Eagles on Thursday, 28 May 2026, at the Approved Schools Field in a tightly contested Leone Rock Premier League encounter. Abacha City started the brighter of the two sides, applying early pressure in the opening 10 minutes. However, Kamboi Eagles gradually settled into the game and came close in the 15th minute when Joseph Cole found space inside the box, only to be denied by a crucial save from goalkeeper Benson Fewrg. The hosts eventually broke the deadlock in the 17th minute through James Kargbo (#9), who calmly finished from a well-delivered cross to give Abacha City a 1-0 lead. Kamboi Eagles responded strongly and restored parity just before the break when Ibrahim Boza Kamara converted a Joseph Cole assist to make it 1-1 at halftime. After the restart, the visitors took control and their pressure paid off when Bockarie Saffa produced a stunning solo effort to put Kamboi Eagles 2-1 ahead. Abacha City, however, refused to back down. Abdul Rahman Kamara tested the goalkeeper twice from distance before Daniel Kamara emerged as the hero late on, curling in a superb free kick in the 85th minute to level the match. The encounter took another twist in the 84th minute when Kamboi Eagles were reduced to ten men after Mohamed Lamin was shown a red card, but the visitors still managed to secure a valuable away point. The result leaves Abacha City FC bottom of the table with 29 points from 29 matches, still deep in the relegation zone, while Kamboi Eagles move up to 39 points.