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The Intern Newspaper, Saint John, NB (2025)

06/27/2025

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06/18/2025

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06/05/2025

Today, Thursday 5th June, 2025 publication on the Intern.

06/01/2025

Read the Intern Newspaper for more breaking news and human interest stories

04/25/2025

JSCO, Carter Center lead GEWE Act progress review

The Justice Sector Coordination Office (JSCO), in partnership with The Carter Center, convened a high-level review meeting with justice sector stakeholders to assess the progress of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, 2022, within the justice sector. The meeting, held at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, reaffirmed the sector’s commitment to building a gender-responsive and inclusive justice system in Sierra Leone.

Senior representatives from the Sierra Leone Judiciary, the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, the Office of the Ombudsman, the Human Rights Commission, the Law Reform Commission, the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Office of the Administrator and Registrar General, L.A.W.Y.E.R.S, and Advocaid were in attendance. The platform provided an opportunity to reflect on key achievements, identify emerging challenges, and chart actionable steps to advance gender equality across the justice sector.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Shahid M. Korjie, Coordinator of JSCO, highlighted the strategic importance of the GEWE Act within the Justice Sector Reform Strategy (2024–2030), particularly under Strategic Objective 3: “Enhanced Adherence to Human Rights and the Rule of Law.” He emphasized ongoing efforts across 17 justice institutions, including implementing the Act, strengthening responses to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), and building capacity for gender-sensitive practices.

Mr. Jalloh, Project Coordinator at The Carter Center, presented findings from the Gender Diagnostic Study conducted under the Center’s Gender Equality and Rights (GEAR) Project. Originally focused on magistrate courts, the study drew calls from participants for broader surveys to reflect the realities across all levels of the judiciary and related institutions.

Representing the Hon. Chief Justice, Hon. Justice Alusine Sesay (JSC), joined by Justice Bintu Alhadi (JA), Justice Tonia Barnette (JA), and Justice Simeone Alieu (J), underscored the Judiciary’s longstanding commitment to gender parity. Justice Sesay noted that Sierra Leone had appointed a female Chief Justice even as other jurisdictions struggled to do the same. Justices Alhadi and Barnette raised concerns about the study’s narrow scope and reaffirmed that judicial appointments and promotions are based on merit and fairness, with gender never being a barrier.

Stakeholders acknowledged that while institutional policies appear equitable, challenges remain around awareness, training, and public confidence in justice delivery. The Ombudsman, Tejan Ahmed Israel Jah Esq., noted that many gender-related complaints originate from administrative lapses rather than overt discrimination, calling for a deeper review of HR practices and workplace culture.

Despite resource constraints, notable progress was highlighted. The Judiciary has established a Communications Directorate and incorporated GEWE-related content into its official website to enhance public awareness. The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs confirmed that regulations for the GEWE Act have been laid before Parliament and await a Certificate of Maturity. Additionally, the Sierra Leone Police, Fire Force, and the Military have developed gender policies aligned with the Act’s provisions.

Civil society organizations, including AVOCAID, continue to support CSO capacity-building for effective gender mainstreaming. Cross-sector collaboration has also strengthened, with JSCO coordinating efforts to develop a national work plan and monitoring framework.

Nonetheless, stakeholders identified critical challenges, including limited financial and technical resources for gender training and reforms, inadequate data systems for tracking progress, and institutional silos hindering cross-sector coordination.

Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, stressed the urgency of moving from policy to action: “For every law passed, it is the justice sector that breathes life into it. Lack of resources cannot be an excuse for inaction.”

Key recommendations from the review included revising institutional policies for gender sensitivity, expanding public sensitization using existing platforms, and conducting regular GEWE Act review meetings with wider stakeholder participation.

Ms. Kari Machey, Associate Director at The Carter Center, reaffirmed the Center’s support: “The GEWE Act is not just about representation—it is about institutionalizing gender equality and transforming judicial culture.”

The meeting concluded with a shared vision: to build a justice system that is inclusive, equitable, and truly representative of all Sierra Leoneans. JSCO and its partners remain committed to transforming policy into tangible outcomes for women and girls across the country.

11/17/2024

Major International Financial Fraud Uncovered

Fraudsters are exploiting Sierra Leone's mineral resources in elaborate schemes designed to defraud investors. One such company, Qommodity, registered in Sierra Leone as Tandem Liber Holding, claimed to engage in gold mining while soliciting large sums of money from investors. The company's founders, Edward Meijers and Henri Lechner, are also associated with Qommodity, a cryptocurrency firm operating internationally.

Edward Meijers, the CEO who was previously conducting business in the Netherlands, is now reportedly on the run and believed to be hiding in Lesotho. Tandem Liber Holding initially obtained mining licenses in Sierra Leone to attract investors; however, the Sierra Leone National Mineral Agency has since canceled all their licenses after determining that no mining activities had taken place in the three years since the licenses were issued.

Hundreds of investors, including a group of former professional footballers, now fear they have been deceived by Qommodity. According to an investigation by the Dutch newspaper Financieele Dagblad (FD), the athletes claim they are collectively owed €10 million. Research by the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) has uncovered that funds collected by Qommodity were likely misappropriated for personal use rather than legitimate business purposes. Evidence suggests that Henri Lechner and Edward Meijers may have diverted the funds toward private expenses.

The severity of this case has raised concerns among fraud investigation authorities in the Netherlands and across Europe due to the large sums of money involved and the devastating impact on investors, some of whom have faced financial ruin and, tragically, even loss of life.

Victims of this fraud are now calling for public support to bring these alleged perpetrators to justice. More updates on this investigation will follow in the next publication.

The Qommodity Team

08/26/2024

Joseph M. Conteh: S/Leonean scholar to Peking University speaks on behalf of MOFCOM scholarship recipients

By: Mustapha Momoh

In a poignant speech that resonated deeply with the audience, Mr. Joseph Momoh Conteh, the sole recipient from Sierra Leone admitted to Peking University’s doctoral program in National Development, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of all MOFCOM scholarship awardees. His words underscored the significance of the scholarship, not just as financial aid, but as a symbol of China’s commitment to global education and the strengthening of ties between Sierra Leone and China.

Mr. Conteh's speech highlighted the profound impact of the MOFCOM scholarship, describing it as a *"beacon of hope"* and a testament to China's dedication to fostering global education and cultural exchange. He praised the Chinese government and the staff of the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone for their unwavering support throughout the application process, ensuring the success of the scholarship program.

He went on to emphasize the broader implications of the scholarship, viewing it as a critical element in strengthening the bilateral relationship between Sierra Leone and China. *"As we prepare to begin our studies in China," Mr. Conteh said, "we understand that we must strengthen these ties further. We are committed to being ambassadors of this relationship and fostering mutual understanding and respect."*

Mr. Conteh also spoke of the potential impact their education in China would have on Sierra Leone, expressing a vision where their newly acquired knowledge and skills would be harnessed to address the nation's pressing challenges. He envisioned a future where innovative agricultural techniques, infrastructure development, healthcare improvements, entrepreneurial growth, educational enhancement, and environmental conservation would all benefit from the expertise they bring back to their homeland.

In closing, Mr. Conteh made a series of commitments on behalf of the awardees, pledging to excel academically, engage in cultural exchange, and return to Sierra Leone equipped with the knowledge needed to drive the country's development *"We are not just students; we are ambassadors, catalysts for change, and torchbearers for a brighter future for Sierra Leone,"* he concluded, leaving a lasting impression on all who heard his speech.

In his address, Ambassador Wang Qing congratulated the scholarship recipients on their academic achievements and emphasised the strategic importance of the scholarships in supporting Sierra Leone’s development goals. "These scholarships reflect the Sierra Leonean government's commitment to transformational development under President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership," Ambassador Qing remarked. He urged the students to embrace their roles as cultural ambassadors, reminding them that their responsibilities extend beyond academic excellence. "You are not just students; you are ambassadors of Sierra Leone. Represent your country with pride and dignity while immersing yourself in Chinese culture and academia."

Ambassador Qing also highlighted the long-standing educational cooperation between the two countries, noting that over the past 20 years, more than 1,300 Sierra Leonean students have benefited from Chinese scholarships. He encouraged the new batch of scholars to build on this legacy, working hard to achieve their personal goals and contributing to Sierra Leone’s progress upon their return.

Haja Ramatulai Wurie, the Minister of Technical and Higher Education, echoed these sentiments, praising the students for their dedication and hard work, which led to their selection for the MOFCOM scholarships. "Today marks an important milestone in your academic journeys," she said. As you embark on this new chapter, remember that you carry with you the hopes and aspirations of Sierra Leone. We expect you to return home with knowledge and skills that will contribute to the development of our nation."

Ambassador Victoria Sulaimani, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also took to the podium to commend the students and to emphasise the significance of Sierra Leone's relationship with China. She pointed out that this partnership, which has flourished over the past five decades, is a testament to the enduring mutual respect and cooperation between the two nations. "This scholarship program is a shining example of what can be achieved through international cooperation," she stated, adding that the students' success would further solidify the bond between Sierra Leone and China.
The farewell reception ended on a high note, with the students visibly inspired and eager to embark on their academic journey in China. The event was a powerful reminder of the transformative power of education and the enduring friendship between Sierra Leone and China. As the 189 scholars prepare to leave for China, they carry with them the hopes of their nation and the promise of a future where international cooperation leads to shared success.

"May the friendship between Sierra Leone and China strengthen, and may our shared commitment to education and understanding light the path to a brighter future," Mr Conteh concluded, his words a fitting end to an event that celebrated both the students' individual achievements and the collective bond between two great nations.

06/21/2024

ILO trains 200 women on Gender Entrepreneurship Together (GET) Ahead Program

By: Mustapha Momoh

The International Labour Organization (ILO), with funding from the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund, under the Gender Promotion Initiative, has trained 200 young women identified to operate and manage the project-constructed 25 water kiosk on Gender Entrepreneurship Together (GET) Ahead training program. This initiative is part of the "Women for Water and Peace" (W4WP) project jointly implemented with the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), aiming to mitigate water-based community conflicts by promoting equitable access to water in the five communities of Mayinkineh, Rokupa, Dworzark, Lumley, and Crab Town.

GET Ahead is a gender-sensitive entrepreneurship training programme designed for women and men with basic numeracy or literacy skills. It aims to address some of the barriers women face in starting and running a business, including lack of entrepreneurial knowledge and skills, low confidence, and gendered norms and roles that increase the burden of household and care responsibilities. GET Ahead bridges the gender gap in entrepreneurship support by offering women and men both the business management and the key soft skills they need to start a business.

The intensive five-day training, held at the Vanilla Complex in Aberdeen for Water Kiosk Operators in the West, and Negus Nagas ( Culture Radio Compound) at Grafton for Water Kiosk Operators in the East, was facilitated by the local consultancy “Farm Tok”, who are local trainers who benefitted from the ILO’s GET Ahead TOT, which was organised by the ILO’s Opportunity Salone Programme.

At the conclusion of the training, a graduation ceremony marked the culmination of the comprehensive program. Trainees received certificates, symbolizing their readiness to contribute to community and sustainable development.

The ceremony began with a poignant drama skit depicting the daily challenges women and children face in accessing clean water, including issues of sexual harassment and violence. This dramatization set the stage for a day focused on practical solutions and empowerment.
Abubakar Yankuba from “Farm Tok” moderated a group discussion, emphasizing the tangible outcomes of the project. “This is not the usual workshop with lip service and glamour. It represents practical sustainable development and human capital development,” Yankuba stated. The discussion featured trainees Juliet, Hawa, and Lucinda, who shared their experiences. Juliet highlighted the importance of maintaining friendly relationships between traders and customers. Hawa stressed the necessity of strategic business planning, securing capital, and selecting suitable locations. She expressed her gratitude for the new water kiosks at the Dwarzark community and called for further investment as the community grew.

Sia Lajaku-Williams, the ILO’s W4WP National Project Coordinator, emphasized the project's sustainability efforts. “We are partnering with the Sierra Leone Labour Congress, the Employees Federation, and West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP). The funding may not be constant, but we should be able to move forward on our own. This training on financial management and gender empowerment is a very expensive training which we have provided free of cost for all participants,” she noted.

Mary Alpha, the lead consultant from “Farm Tok Consultancy”, thanked the development partners, including UNCDF and ILO. She highlighted the inclusivity of the training, catering for both educated and uneducated women from the West and East ends of Freetown. “We are working with youths, women, and people with disabilities. Team cooperation will enhance women's economic empowerment and help alleviate poverty,” Alpha stated.

The representative of the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr. Robert Banamwa congratulated the women and encouraged them to harness their innovative capabilities. He affirmed that the project aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 to 7 and has the potential to foster substantial community growth.

Her worship, the Mayor of Freetown, Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, delivered the keynote address, expressing her delight at seeing a dream realized. “This project, which started in 2019, is a testament to growth and empowerment. The 25 boreholes will be managed by women, addressing the crucial need for water in our communities,” she said. The mayor confirmed that 200 women trainees from 25 water kiosks across the five communities of including Dwarzark, Lumley, Mayenkineh, Crab Town, and Rokupa are significant progress. She encouraged the women to apply their training practically and to persevere despite challenges.

The event ended with the presentation of certificates to the trainees by the mayor, the representative of the UN Resident Coordinator, some project community councillors, and other project implementation partners. to the beneficiaries who expressed their readiness to implement their newfound skills and knowledge for the betterment of their communities.

06/06/2024

Statement on the Celebration of 180 Years of the World YMCA and 112 Years of the YMCA in Sierra Leone

Today, we celebrate a remarkable milestone: 180 years since the founding of the World YMCA by George Williams and 112 years of dedicated service by the YMCA in Sierra Leone. This dual anniversary marks not only the passage of time but also the enduring impact and relevance of the YMCA’s mission globally and locally.

Since its inception in 1844, the YMCA has steadfastly committed to fostering youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Across the globe and in Sierra Leone, the YMCA has been a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change, touching the lives of millions through its diverse programs and initiatives. The World YMCA has grown into a dynamic network of national movements, each tailored to meet the unique needs of their communities while upholding the core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
In Sierra Leone, the YMCA has been an integral part of the community for 112 years. Through periods of peace and times of challenge, the YMCA of Sierra Leone has consistently provided vital support and opportunities for personal growth, education, and community development. From youth empowerment projects to vocational training, health initiatives, and social advocacy, the YMCA in Sierra Leone has been at the forefront of nurturing resilient and empowered individuals who contribute positively to society.

The impact of the YMCA’s work in Sierra Leone is profound. It has provided safe spaces for young people to learn and grow, supported families in need, and played a crucial role in rebuilding communities. The YMCA’s commitment to inclusivity and social justice has helped to bridge divides and foster a sense of unity and shared purpose.

As we celebrate these anniversaries, we honor the legacy of those who have come before us and look forward to the future with optimism and determination. The YMCA’s mission is as relevant today as it was 180 years ago, and perhaps even more so in a world that continues to grapple with complex social issues and unprecedented challenges.

As a youth serving organisation, the Sierra Leone YMCA will continue to invest in education, Mobile Health Services, Governance and Peace Building, Civic Engagement through our S2C philosophy ,Sports, Climate Change, Livelihood and Entrepreneurship and Agriculture programmes.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers, staff, donors, and partners who have contributed to the YMCA’s journey. Your unwavering support and dedication have been the backbone of our success.
Together, we will continue to build strong youths, strong families, and strong communities. Here’s to many more years of service, growth, and positive impact.

Thank you.

05/30/2024

JSCO concludes workshop on validating justice sector reform strategy

By: Mustapha Momoh

The Justice Sector Coordinating Office (JSCO), with support from the UNDP, concluded a two-day validation workshop on the new justice sector strategy and investment plan on Monday, May 27th, and Tuesday, May 28th, 2024, at Sierra Palms in Freetown.

The workshop brought together a diverse group of professionals, including judges, lawyers, law enforcement officers, and representatives from various organizations within the justice sector. Their collective expertise was harnessed during the event.

In his statement, Mr. Shahid Korjie, the coordinator of JSCO, noted that the new Justice Sector Reform Strategy was developed by a consultant with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This strategy outlines the reform priorities within the justice sector for the next five years and reflects on the successes and challenges of the fourth-generation strategy that ended in 2023. Mr. Korjie emphasized that the new strategic plan (2024-2028) builds on the achievements of the Justice Sector Reforms Strategy and Investment Plan (JSRSIP 2018-2023). He stated that the new strategy provides directives aimed at supporting the country's aspirations of enhancing justice and safeguarding the rule of law.

Deputy Minister of Justice Mr. Alpha Sesay called for collective collaboration within the justice system. He assured participants that the government, through the Ministry of Justice, will maintain a system where no one is above the law. He also mentioned that the ministry will organize separate engagements in various communities to discuss the rollout of the new strategy.
The plan is comprehensively designed to enhance justice delivery and improve access to justice, especially in local communities. One of the central themes of the workshop was enhancing access to justice for local communities. The strategy includes initiatives to improve legal aid services, increase the availability of legal information, and streamline court processes to reduce delays.

If finalized, the strategy will serve as a blueprint for all ongoing reforms in the country's justice system. Inputs on the new strategic plan were carefully recorded by the JSCO for further consideration ahead of finalizing the strategy and investment plan.

02/07/2024

YMCA SL donates essentials to Network for Children Orphanage home

Young Men’s Christian Association Sierra Leone (YMCA SL) donated food items and personal care products to Network For Children Orphanage Home on Friday 2nd February, 2024. The handing over of the items took place at the orphanage’s residence in Allentown. The kids were heartily happy about the food items and welcomed YMCA SL’s staff for their visit. 53 total children, benefited from this kind gesture, 33 girls and 20 boys.

More importantly, YMCA SL Regional Coordinator for the West inspired the kids with a well-tailored address. He noted that YMCA is a Christian organization. “We work for and work with youths, including children. That is why we have schools wherever YMCA is established. Because we believe that to help the youths, we need to target them at tender age. You will be able to help them grow up to be responsible people. That is why we have schools in Bo, Kenema and Freetown,’ YMCA SL RC West said.

Moreover, Mr. Jim Bapie appreciated YMCA SL for its kind gesture. He noted that the food items and personal care products arrived at the right time. He further stated, “We pray that God multiply for you wherever you obtain the funds to support us with these items. We are struggling to offer shelter and basic needs for the children. We pray that the relationship continue, and hope that you think of us in consequent occasions.” On a talk with YMCA SL’s Communication team, Mr. Jim Bapie called on the government and other well-wishers to help them take care of the kids. He highlighted that the orphanage home has lot of needs to take care of, including to pay teachers’ salaries and to handle food and shelter issues.

The Intern Newspaper

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