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City Hunter News Papper, Freetown (2025)

22/04/2025

Unity Through Sport: CRSG Hosts Intercultural Friendship Football Match in Freetown

On Saturday, April 19, 2025, the vibrant atmosphere of Freetown transformed into a bustling hub of athletic enthusiasm as the China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG) hosted an Intercultural Friendship Football Match. The event saw the CRSG Football Team, made up of both Chinese and local employees, face off against a spirited team representing its surrounding communities. This friendly match was more than just a display of sporting prowess; it was a testament to CRSG's commitment to integration, unity, and community development in Sierra Leone.

As the sun shone brightly, local residents flocked to the pitch, eager to witness a celebration of sportsmanship that transcends cultural boundaries. Xiang Wang, the Chief Supervisor of CRSG, opened the event with a heartfelt address emphasizing the significance of football within Sierra Leonean culture. "Football is very popular in Sierra Leone. Our company has always believed that true success lies in rooting ourselves in the local soil," said Wang. He elaborated on the company’s ongoing efforts to support various aspects of community development, including education, construction, and skill training, all while cultivating a bond with local residents.

The image of diverse teams donning jerseys in the colors of their respective communities illustrated Wang's point about the power of sport as a universal language. The match was a blend of energetic gameplay and mutual respect among participants, showcasing their shared passion for football. This initiative not only provided an opportunity for entertaining competition but also promoted understanding and harmony across cultures.

Wang continued, emphasizing the internal benefits of such events for CRSG employees, stating, “Internally, this event reinforces our company identity as a united family.” He spoke of the daily collaboration between Chinese and African employees in various projects, from construction engineering to trade. The teamwork required on the football field served as a reminder of their shared mission in the workplace. “By striving together in a team, we deepen bonds and inspire collective pride in our shared mission.” he said.

One of the highlights of the day came when local Member of Parliament, Hon. John Sattie Kargbo, addressed the crowd, praising CRSG for its contributions to community development. He noted that such friendly matches reflect the existing unity fostered by the company. “We are not surprised to see such a friendly match, as it spells out the existing unity.” he remarked. Hon. Kargbo acknowledged that CRSG has played a significant role in providing employment opportunities for local residents while supporting national development initiatives.

The MP highlighted the company’s Community Development Fund and reaffirmed the positive impacts of CRSG’s operations on both local and national levels. "They have been instrumental towards community and local development,” he asserted, echoing Wang's sentiments regarding the role of football in bringing people together. “We are happy with the operations of CRSG, and we assure you that the community will continue to protect your operations.”

After the speeches, the much-anticipated kick-off commenced, with enthusiastic cheers resonating from the sidelines. Players showcased their skills and finesse on the pitch, as friendly rivalries unfolded amid jovial banter. Both teams exhibited commendable sportsmanship, embodying the spirit of cooperation and camaraderie that CRSG aims to promote within its operational areas.

The sense of community extended beyond the match itself. Booths offering local foods and crafts filled the periphery of the event, allowing attendees to engage in cultural exchange beyond just football. Community members interacted, discussing not only the game but also the ongoing efforts by CRSG in improving local infrastructure and access to essential services.

Wang reflected on the broader implications of the event, noting that sporting events can act as catalysts for socio-economic development. “Just as CRSG created thousands of jobs and revitalized entire neighborhoods, we see football as another important part of community life,” he declared. By investing in sports and other engaging activities, CRSG hopes to foster a healthier lifestyle among local residents, ultimately contributing to enhanced overall well-being.

The unity displayed during the event was palpable, with smiles and laughter bridging any divides that may exist between Chinese employees and local friends. As the players embraced at the final whistle, regardless of who scored the most goals, it was evident that the day's true victory lay in the connections forged across cultures.

After a successful football match, it was clear that the Intercultural Friendship Football Match had succeeded in its objective of promoting unity and camaraderie. Wang's final words resonated with those in attendance: "Victory is measured not just by goals scored, but by the connections we forge."

CRSG actively integrates into the local society and participate in activities that are popular among the Sierra Leonean people. CRSG strongly supports various development activities in the community, including sports undertakings. The company demonstrate the sports spirit and cultural integration that transcend national boundaries. The construction of internal team cohesion within the enterprise CRSG.

During its long-term development, CRSG has always emphasized the capacity building and quality cultivation of its employees. It has established outstanding mechanisms in areas such as skill improvement, management efficiency, and medical and health care. By integrating sports, including football, into health management and corporate culture, CRSG has successfully shaped an organizational ecosystem that is "people-oriented and sustainable". Inject lasting impetus into long-term development.

08/03/2025

Freetown Terminal Commemorates International Women’s Day with Calls for Gender Equality

Freetown Terminal joined the global community in commemorating International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, with a series of events aimed at promoting gender equality and celebrating the contributions of women in the maritime and logistics sector.
This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” emphasized the need for swift and decisive measures to bridge gender gaps, especially in traditionally male-dominated industries such as shipping and port management. Freetown Terminal, a major gateway for trade and commerce in Sierra Leone, reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women in the workplace through various initiatives.
The event, attended by employees, industry leaders, and representatives from women’s organizations, featured motivational speeches, panel discussions, and workshops on professional development.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the occasion Yamba Mansaray commended women across the world and the women working at the port and emphasized the company’s ongoing efforts to create an inclusive and supportive work environment.

“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we must recognize that true progress requires action. Freetown Terminal is committed to ensuring equal opportunities for women, fostering leadership, and supporting policies that drive gender equality in the maritime industry,” he stated.

One of the highlights of the event was a video session featuring female professionals from the shipping and logistics industry.

They shared their experiences, challenges, and success stories, inspiring younger generations to pursue careers in the field. The session also provided an opportunity to discuss policies that could further empower women.

Employees and stakeholders expressed appreciation for the celebration and recognitionoftheir hard work at the terminal, noting that while progress has been made, there is still work to be done to achieve full gender parity.

As the world marks International Women’s Day, Freetown Terminal’s commitment to gender inclusion and equality stands as a beacon of progress, setting an example for other industries to follow.

Owner of JF Heritage, Fredricka Williams recognized the work done by the Terminal therefore calling on women to be policy makers, as they have come a long way in actualizing this change.

"Now we have a lot of bias towards women empowerment and gender equality. So it is our duty as women to take advantage
and to make the change.
We don't want to continue to be like this.

Founder of Women in Agriculture and Nyanda Local Market, Bintu Nyanda Jibao said she started operating with just few women after discovering her dream business in the province with some local women adding that they went on and on to work hard and keep pushing more.
She said their target was to secure a warehouse for the vegetable so that they will have what they eat and also left some for commercial purposes.
She urged that their produce be bought from their local shop, the proceed will go straight to women having a child on her back working.

Social Media Influencer, Mrs. Hannah Ogunade also known as (Waterloo T**i) admonished women that they as women they should be dedicated, honest and perseverance in whatever things they find themselves which will make them to succeed in the end.
"Women are strong as most times, when wrong things happen to us, we don't cone out to explain but only few are brave to come out. I urge you all to do something that will be of great benefit to you and the society. Make somethings with your hands"

04/10/2024

A boat carrying scores of passengers capsized on the Kivu Easter Congo On Thursday killing at least 50 people
23 bodies recovered 40 people were rescued and 64 missing

01/10/2024

Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara…says “I cannot mortgage my integrity
It is crystal clear that since APC lost 2018 elections to date, those who called themselves as bloggers for the party are the very blood that are responsible for the disunity within the party. All they care about is to please their paymasters to malign other comrades which is a very bad precedence for the elevation of the party.
To ascertain this, in the early hours of Thursday September 26th 2024, a baseless social media blogger that called himself- Mister Salone who resides in the Republic of Gambia maliciously blackmailed, Leader of Opposition, HON. Abdul Kargbo and Opposition Chief Whip, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara through his audio content. According to the content, Mister. Salone informed the people, especially his followers that the gentlemen's trip to the United United of America was sponsored by President Julius Maada BIO in order to help convince the international community to disburse the MCC money to the government.
In order to counteract this worthless information, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara made it explicit that if they had wanted to do anything cynical it could have been done prior to now. Based on his views, immediately after the 2023 general elections, Dr. Samura Kamara clandestinely called them to accompany President Maada Bio at the United Nations General Assembly. He maintained that as party loyalists they turned down the request of Dr. Samura Kamara as it was not in the best interest of the party as well the country.
Hon. Abdul Karima Kamara made it explicit that they have heard enough of malicious statements against their personalities but it's high time they started to take drastic actions against those senseless bloggers that are on the verge to divide the party.
"Politics is my career CAREER, I cannot mortgage myintegrity", he made this statement as he is ever ready to save guard his integrity. He reiterated that's he is not a sustainence politician and as a result he would continue to serve the APC party irrespective of the challenges along the journey.
Again, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara sends a message to Dr. Samura Kamara as he was being alleged that Mr. Salone is one of his social media advocates, if it is to caution the useless blogger to be mindful of his rantings against sober minded comrades that have been bestowed their efforts to alleviate the party for the common good. He emphasized that If he failed to act he will get himself blame for the aftermath of his alleged bloggers.
Conclusively, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara throws the challenge to Dr. Samura Kamara to refute his assertions as he has plethora evidence to justify all claims.

30/09/2024

Justice Mohamed Alhaji Momoh Jah Stevens, JA of the High Court, has issued a significant ruling that has put a halt to the ongoing election process for the Chairmanship of the Kenema District Council. The decision, made in an order dated 27th September 2024, cited the Ex-parte Originating Summons and Affidavit In Support presented by R.B Kowa Esq., the Learned Solicitor-General, as the basis for the court's intervention.
Justice Stevens, acting under the inherent jurisdiction of the High Court of Justice of the Republic of Sierra Leone, granted Order 1 of the application despite the short notice provided, emphasizing the urgency of the matter. The court's ruling included a stay on all election processes related to the election of the Chairman of the Kenema District Council by the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) pending further hearings and determinations of the application.
The High Court's decision has thrown a wrench into the previously scheduled by-election set by ECSL for November 16, 2024. This development has added a new layer of complexity to the already tense political atmosphere surrounding the succession process following the untimely death of Chairman Mohamed Sesay on August 6, 2024.
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice had previously weighed in on the succession issue by advising against the holding of a by-election and recommending Deputy Chairperson Madam Franciss Jambawai as the legitimate successor to assume the Chairmanship. This legal advice was delivered to the Local Government Ministry and ECSL, setting the stage for a potential smooth transition of leadership.
The Attorney General's opinion, based on the provisions of the Local Government Act of 2002, highlighted the role of the Deputy District Council Chairman in assisting and acting in the absence of the District Council Chairman. Given that Madam Jambawai and Chairman Sesay ran on the same ticket and were jointly elected into office, the Attorney General argued that she possessed the legal capacity and authority to step into the role of Chairman following the demise of the substantive Chairman.
The legal clarity provided by the Attorney General's office seemed to align with constitutional provisions and was intended to prevent any governance vacuum within the Kenema District Council. However, Justice Stevens' recent ruling has introduced a new layer of uncertainty and complexity into the succession process, raising questions about the legality and implications of his decision on the ongoing political landscape.
The stay ordered by the High Court puts a temporary pause on the electoral activities related to the Chairmanship position, throwing into disarray the timelines set by ECSL for the upcoming by-election. With the case adjourned for an inter-parte hearing on September 28, 2024, stakeholders are left in limbo as they await further judicial directions on the matter.
As the legal drama unfolds, all eyes will be on the High Court proceedings and the eventual outcome of the case.
The stay on the election process has added a new layer of complexity to what was already a contentious issue, further underscoring the importance of legal clarity, adherence to due process, and respect for the rule of law in matters of governance and leadership transitions. The fate of the Kenema District Council Chairmanship hangs in the balance as the legal battle plays out in the courts, shaping the future trajectory of leadership in the district.
As stakeholders brace for the upcoming hearings and await further developments, the High Court's intervention has thrown the political landscape into turmoil and set the stage for a potentially protracted legal battle over the rightful succession to the Chairmanship of the Kenema District Council. The outcome of this legal saga will have far-reaching implications for the governance, stability, and democratic processes in Sierra Leone, underscoring the crucial role of the judiciary in upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law.

27/09/2024

The story

26/09/2024

IGP Sellu Unveils New Police Health Centre in North West Region

In a significant step towards enhancing the welfare of police officers and their families, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. William Fayia Sellu, has officially opened a new Police Health Centre in Lungi. This facility is designed to serve as a medical hub for the North West Region, ensuring that law enforcement personnel receive quality medical treatment.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including the Honourable Member of Parliament Alhaji Sheik Ibrahim Santigie Kargbo, the Chiefdom Speaker of Kaffu Bullom, representatives from the 15th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. EM Jones, and Mr. Gibril Bosco Kamara from Lungi Government Hospital, along with various stakeholders and representatives from the police community.
In his address, Dr. John Mumuneh Konteh, Deputy Director and Medical Superintendent, expressed gratitude to the IGP for this vital extension of medical services. He highlighted that the Health Centre is fully operational, staffed with qualified medical personnel and equipped with necessary supplies and laboratory equipment. The facility includes wards for both male and female patients, allowing for short-term admissions of up to one week.
Dr. Konteh urged police officers and their families to utilize the facility responsibly, emphasizing the IGP's genuine concern for personnel welfare and his intentions to expand medical services further across the country. He also mentioned an upcoming initiative where a team of medical expatriates will assist with free surgical operations in November 2024.
Regional Commander Mr. Joseph Ibrahim Lahai, on behalf of the IGP, praised the effort put forth to bring this medical facility to life. He affirmed that this initiative aligns with the IGP's vision of prioritizing the health and welfare of police personnel nationwide. Furthermore, he reiterated the IGP's commitment to equitable access to resources across all regions.
The Regional Commander encouraged collaboration among medical teams from the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), and Lungi Government Hospital to achieve shared health objectives.
Other speakers echoed the sentiment of gratitude towards the IGP and his wife for their dedication to improving police welfare. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks from the Lungi Mamy Queen, followed by a ceremonial tape-cutting and inspection of the new health facility by the Regional Commander on behalf of the IGP.
The establishment of the Police Health Centre represents a crucial investment in the health and well-being of police officers and their families in the North West Region, reflecting the broader commitment of the Sierra Leone Police to prioritize personnel welfare.

26/09/2024

Mayor of Freetown and C40 Cities Co-Chair, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, has arrived in New York for the 79th United Nations General Assembly Summit of the Future.
Throughout the week, on the sidelines of the 79th UNGA, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr will participate in a series of bilateral and multilateral engagements. She will meet with the Rockefeller Foundation and Goals House to share critical insights on the urgent actions required to safeguard public health in the face of climate change. In addition, she will serve as a High-Level Keynote Speaker at the World Biodiversity Summit, organized by the World Climate Foundation. Her keynote will focus on the linked crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, highlighting biodiversity initiatives led by Freetown City Council.
As the climate crisis relates to fossil fuel dependency—threatening the planet, and polluting the air, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr will also take part in the Global Renewables Summit organised by the Global Renewables Alliance, International Labor Organisation, IRENA, Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University. The Summit will discuss the benefits of an inclusive renewable energy transition, pinpointing how cities can ensure the transition is both equitable and inclusive.
Additionally, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr will participate in a panel discussion on Growing Local Solutions, hosted by the United Nations, where she will deep dive into the role of local governments in driving the transformation needed to deliver sustainable solutions for both people and the planet.
While there have been efforts to engage and empower people living in informal settlements in climate action, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr will also participate in a panel on Empowering People in Informality. During this session, she will highlight ongoing initiatives led by organizations to support those in informal settlements, as well as explore opportunities to further enhance these actions for greater empowerment and climate resilience.

25/09/2024

The unauthorized landing of the fourteen-seater aircraft at Freetown International Airport on September 20, 2024, raised concerns due to the nature of its flight and the suspicious behavior of the crew. The aircraft, which was flying from Liberia to Mexico, landed without a proper permit and was discovered to be operating under a fake registration number. The crew falsely claimed a radio failure as the reason for the landing. According to the Sierra Leonean authorities, the flight's captain later revealed that he was paid $20,000 for the trip.
Sierra Leone's Ministry of Information and Civic Education confirmed that a thorough search of the aircraft yielded no illegal items such as drugs or contraband. However, the suspicious circumstances surrounding the flight raised alarms, especially given Sierra Leone’s position on international drug trafficking routes. The aircraft is currently being held by the Office of National Security, and six people are in custody, including four foreign nationals—three Mexicans and a Spaniard—as well as two Sierra Leonean air traffic controllers.
Sierra Leone has been identified as a transshipment point for drug trafficking and money laundering operations. These activities often involve routes between South America or Asia to Europe, with West African nations like Sierra Leone being used as waypoints. Despite no drugs being found on the plane, the involvement of Sierra Leone in the broader context of international trafficking is a concern. The U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs continues to monitor such developments closely.
This incident is likely to prompt further investigations, especially around the roles played by the detained Sierra Leonean air traffic controllers and any potential links to organized crime, despite the absence of contraband on the aircraft.

25/09/2024

China-Africa Agricultural Cooperation:
Boosting Value Addition in Africa
By Yi Xin

During the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held earlier this month, Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina hailed the success of hybrid rice in his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. In fact, hybrid rice has been such a game-changer in Madagasgar’s grain production that it is celebrated on the 20,000 ariary banknote.

Since 2007, China has been working with Madagascar on hybrid rice technology. Now this high-yielding crop has outperformed traditional varieties by two to three times and its cultivation has expanded to 50,000 hectares in Madagascar.

The China-Africa relationship is a deep and multifaceted one. The collaboration on hybrid rice between China and Madagascar epitomizes the extensive agricultural partnership that has been developing since the 1950s. In recent years, China-Africa agricultural collaboration has become more solid, with notable progress in technology transfer, agricultural industrialization and capacity building.

The agricultural sector is among the ten partnership actions for cooperation with Africa announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the 2024 FOCAC Summit. What is especially noteworthy about this initiative, officially known as the Partnership Action for Agriculture and Livelihoods, is that China will encourage two-way investment for joint ventures and create at least one million jobs for Africa by helping the continent retain added value from its agricultural products. As a matter of fact, cooperation to bolster local value chains is already yielding fruits in many African countries.

Cassava Cultivation in Nigeria

Cassava cultivation in many African nations has been hindered by challenges such as low productivity and underdeveloped processing capability.

The Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, a global leader in cassava research, has extended its expertise to Nigeria by working with Nigeria National Root Crops Research Institute and sharing sophisticated breeding and cultivation technologies. The collaboration focuses on research, training and the dissemination of best practices.

In Abuja, a modern agricultural demonstration base was established to enhance local cassava production capabilities. It also serves as a hub for regular training workshops on cassava cultivation and processing. As a result, locals have expanded their product range to include cassava-based biscuits, cakes and noodles, which are higher-value products compared to traditional cassava outputs. This initiative is a significant step towards transforming Nigeria’s cassava industry and aligns with the broader goals of China-Africa agricultural cooperation to boost food security and economic development in Africa

Rubber Industry in Côte d’Ivoire

Côte d’Ivoire, a nation rich in natural resources, is the third-largest producer of natural rubber globally.

Historically, Côte d’Ivoire faced limitations in rubber processing, constraining exports to raw rubber, which offers little added value to the farmers. By joining efforts with China’s Mainland Group in 2020, the country has made a pivotal shift toward value addition in the industry.

The Mainland Group put into operation three rubber processing plants in Dabou, Duekoue and San-Pedro of Côte d’Ivoire, which have together generated over 1,600 local jobs and a combined annual processing capacity of approximately 400,000 tons—accounting for one-third of the nation’s rubber output. According to Mr. Dosso Adama, the Côte d’Ivoire Ambassador to China, these facilities have significantly bolstered the country’s rubber production capabilities. They have added substantial value to the industry, spurred local economic growth and brought tangible benefits to the populace.

These are just two examples of how agricultural cooperation helps to retain added value in Africa. The Beijing Action Plan (2025-2027) adopted at the FOCAC Summit aligns with these efforts. It articulates China’s commitment to incentivizing enterprises to engage in comprehensive industrial chain cooperation with Africa, spanning from agricultural and aquaculture production to processing, machinery manufacturing, and logistics. This is designed to assist Africa in extending its industrial chains and amplifying its value creation, and dovetails well with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

As the world grapples with destructive impacts of climate change and a challenging economic outlook, China-Africa agricultural partnership can be a big boost to food security and economic growth in Africa, and bring lasting benefits to peace, stability and prosperity of the world.

The author is a Beijing-based observer of international affairs.

25/09/2024

EDSA Director General, Joe-Lahai Sormana… why?

25/09/2024

Freetown Terminal Limited Celebrates Solidarity Day with Annual Marathon Race

The Freetown Terminal Limited (FTL), a subsidiary of African Global Logistics (AGL) Limited, held its annual marathon race on Wednesday, 25th September 2024, in a vibrant display of unity and appreciation. The event, which marked the company's 'Solidarity Day,' was a testament to their commitment to recognizing and celebrating the contributions of their workers and the communities in which they operate around the world.
The day-long celebration saw employees from various departments of the company come together to participate in a range of activities, including sporting events, music performances, dance competitions, and even a spirited game of tug of peace. The festive atmosphere resonated with joy and camaraderie as staff members engaged in friendly competition and shared moments of laughter and bonding.
Maroun Abi Aad, the General Manager of Freetown Terminal Limited, highlighted the significance of the annual Solidarity Day and its broader purpose of fostering goodwill and appreciation among the company's workforce and the communities they serve. Speaking at the event, he emphasized that 25th September holds special significance as a day dedicated to celebrating solidarity and building stronger ties with employees and local residents.
"Solidarity Day serves as a cornerstone of our corporate social responsibility efforts, allowing us to express gratitude not only to our hardworking staff but also to the countries and communities that have welcomed us with open arms," stated Maroun Abi Aad. He underscored the importance of giving back to the community and investing in initiatives that promote education and social well-being.
As part of their commitment to supporting education, FTL announced a generous donation of 120 benches to a local school, aimed at providing students with a comfortable and conducive learning environment. This gesture symbolized the company's ongoing dedication to enriching the lives of young learners and ensuring that they have access to essential educational resources.
Maroun Abi Aad reiterated FTL's pledge to continue championing educational causes and extending support to communities in need. He emphasized that investing in education is a key pillar of their corporate social responsibility strategy, reflecting their belief in the transformative power of knowledge and learning.
Beyond the festivities and sporting activities, Solidarity Day served as a platform for Freetown Terminal Limited to reaffirm its commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. Through initiatives such as the annual marathon race and educational donations, the company aims to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and contribute to the overall development of the regions in which they operate.
The spirit of togetherness and collective effort demonstrated during Solidarity Day encapsulated the ethos of Freetown Terminal Limited as a responsible corporate citizen and an advocate for sustainable community development. By fostering a culture of appreciation, collaboration, and social consciousness, the company sets a precedent for meaningful corporate involvement in societal issues and underscores the importance of giving back to those in need.
As FTL continues its journey of growth and expansion, events like the annual Solidarity Day serve as a reminder of the intrinsic value of unity, empathy, and mutual respect in fostering strong relationships and creating a more inclusive and equitable society. Through their actions and initiatives, Freetown Terminal Limited sets a commendable example of corporate leadership and social responsibility, inspiring others to follow suit in making a positive difference in the world.

City Hunter News Papper

22/04/2025

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