Eagleville Blog SL

09/08/2026

Salone Awards of Excellence USA Celebrates Outstanding Sierra Leoneans in California

Sierra Leoneans from across the United States gathered in Tracy, California, for the Third Annual Salone Awards of Excellence USA, held under the theme “Wan Salone.”

The ceremony recognized individuals for their contributions to humanitarian service, entrepreneurship, entertainment, cultural preservation, leadership, and community development.

Among the distinguished honorees were Mrs. Kadijatu Rahman Kabba, Joseph Sahr Musa, Deejay Sen, AKD The Great, Dalo Smok, Shady Baby, Mohamed Tarawali (Shogan), and Mike Anthony, among others.

The event also paid tribute to the late DJ Samah and Mrs. Prosper Euphemia Davies with Lifetime Achievement Awards.

From California to Sierra Leone, the celebration highlighted the achievements and contributions of the Sierra Leonean diaspora.

Read the full story on Eagleville Media & Innovation’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/salone-awards-excellence-usa-celebrates-outstanding-vd4ge

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Outstanding Sierra Leoneans from across the United States have been recognized for their contributions to humanitarian service, entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, entertainment, leadership, and community development at the Third Annual Salone Awards of Excellence USA. Held in early July 2026 a

05/08/2026

Youth Farmers Say One Machine Could Transform Cassava Production in Kambia

For the youth of Khireh Anun Kinfeh ("Hoe and Cutlass") in Kukuna Town, Bramaia Chiefdom, Kambia District, cassava farming is more than agriculture, it is a source of livelihood, food security, and hope for a better future.

Every year, the group cultivates and harvests over 3 acres of cassava, but without a processing machine, they are unable to turn their harvest into gari, limiting their income and opportunities for growth.

"Our biggest challenge is that we do not have a gari processing machine. If we had one, we would process the cassava ourselves, package the gari, and sell it at better prices. That would greatly increase our income and create employment opportunities for women and young people in the community and beyond," says Abdul Karim Dumbuya, the group's Public Relations Officer.

Despite operating without external sponsorship, the organization continues to support its members, strengthen food security, and even contribute to community road maintenance through voluntary service.

Their story highlights the importance of investing in agricultural value addition. A single cassava processing machine could help create jobs, increase incomes, strengthen rural livelihoods, and empower young people to contribute even more to Sierra Leone's agricultural development.

Read the full story on Eagleville Media & Innovation.
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/eagleville-media-innovation_youth-cassava-farmers-in-kambia-appeal-for-activity-7490010087932026880-0CoI?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAAC7aimcBf58p16KS9FJrK2VMb6mDTfgU2yo
What role do you think government, development partners, and the private sector should play in supporting youth-led agricultural initiatives like this? Share your thoughts in the comments.

03/08/2026

Remembering July 26: Cuba Reflects on the Birth of a Revolution and Strengthening of Sierra Leone Ties
By Eagleville


The Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Sierra Leone commemorated Cuba's National Revolution Day, reaffirming the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Cuba and Sierra Leone.
Held recently at the Embassy’s Headquarters in Freetown, the event brought together diplomats, government officials, scholarship recipients, and invited guests who reflected on the significance of July 26 while celebrating more than five decades of bilateral relations built on solidarity, and international cooperation.

Addressing the gathering, the Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to Sierra Leone, Her Excellency Norma Sánchez Águila, described July 26 as one of the most significant dates in Cuba's history.
She explained that the day marks the July 26, 1953 attacks on the Moncada Barracks in Santiago de Cuba and the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Barracks in Bayamo, led by Fidel Castro and fellow revolutionaries seeking to overthrow the government of then-President Fulgencio Batista.
Although the attacks were unsuccessful, resulting in the deaths, imprisonment, and capture of many participants, Ambassador Sánchez said the event marked the beginning of the Cuban Revolution. After his imprisonment, Fidel Castro reorganized the revolutionary movement, which eventually overthrew Batista's government on January 1, 1959.
She said July 26 remains a powerful symbol of Cuba's resilience, determination, and revolutionary spirit and is commemorated through official ceremonies in Cuba and among Cuban communities worldwide. The uprising also inspired the formation of the 26th of July Movement, which became the driving force behind the revolution.
Beyond Cuba's revolutionary history, Ambassador Sánchez highlighted the country's longstanding partnership with Sierra Leone, particularly in education, healthcare, and human resource development.
For more than five decades, Cuba has supported Sierra Leone by training doctors, offering fully funded medical scholarships, deploying medical professionals, and strengthening the country's healthcare system. During the 2014–2016 Ebola outbreak, Cuba also deployed medical personnel to assist Sierra Leone in combating the disease, demonstrating its commitment to international solidarity.
As part of this cooperation, the Government of Cuba continues to award medical scholarships to Sierra Leoneans. This year, three young Sierra Leonean women received scholarships to pursue medical studies in Cuba.
Congratulating the beneficiaries, Ambassador Sánchez encouraged them to remain focused on their studies while embracing Cuban culture and values. "After your studies, you have to come home and serve your people because they need you. This is a good opportunity not only for you but for Sierra Leone," she said.
She also encouraged the students to remain united and support one another throughout their academic journey.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Executive Secretary and Personal Assistant to the Cuban Ambassador, Abubakarr Kamara, described the scholarships as another demonstration of the enduring friendship between the two countries.
He noted that Sierra Leone and Cuba have maintained strong relations for more than 54 years. "This is very important for both countries. It reflects the strong relationship that has existed between Sierra Leone and Cuba for 54 years. Sierra Leone has always supported Cuba, and Cuba has always supported Sierra Leone. These scholarships are further proof of the friendship, solidarity, and cooperation that continue to define our relations," he stated.
Kamara explained that the scholarship programme lasts approximately seven years. Students first spend one year studying Spanish, the language of instruction in Cuba, before undertaking pre-medical studies and subsequently enrolling in the General Medicine programme. He added that outstanding students may qualify for further scholarships to pursue specialist medical training after earning their medical degrees.
The July 26 commemoration in Freetown served not only as a tribute to a defining moment in Cuba's history but also as a celebration of the enduring partnership between Cuba and Sierra Leone—a relationship that continues to transform lives through education, healthcare, capacity building, and mutual solidarity.

24/07/2026

University of Memphis Professor Launches Book in Freetown
By Eagleville

Dr. Brian performing Africa rhythm on the harmonica before the book launch.
Dr. Brian Kwoba, Professor of History and Director of African and African American Studies at the University of Memphis, USA, has recently launched his latest book in Freetown, calling for renewed interest in Pan-African history, education, and African unity.
The book, Hubert Harrison: Forbidden Genius of Pan-African Liberation, was unveiled at the Sierra Leone Library Board during an event organized by the Pan African Coalition of Sierra Leone (PAC-SL). The programme attracted scholars, students, activists, and members of the public interested in African history and liberation movements.
An award-winning historian and recipient of the 2026 Frantz Fanon Outstanding Book Award from the Caribbean Philosophical Association, Dr. Kwoba presented his research on Hubert Harrison, a pioneering Pan-African thinker, writer, educator, and activist whose influence has often been overlooked.
He described Harrison as one of the most significant yet under-recognized figures in Black radical and Pan-African intellectual history, noting that his advocacy for racial justice, education, self-determination, and social transformation remains relevant today.
Explaining the book's title, Dr. Kwoba said Harrison was a "forbidden genius" because his bold criticism of colonialism, racism, injustice, and political leadership led to the marginalization of his ideas. "He was a genius whose contributions were ignored because he challenged systems of oppression and spoke uncomfortable truths," he said.
According to Dr. Kwoba, Harrison's teachings offer valuable lessons for African youth confronting unemployment, leadership failures, identity crises, and social inequality. He urged young Africans to embrace education, critical thinking, and collective action, stressing that understanding African history is essential to solving present-day challenges.
He explained that his motivation for writing the book was to restore Harrison's place in Pan-African history and encourage broader discussions about the intellectual foundations of African liberation movements. He added that genuine Pan-African unity depends on Africans strengthening knowledge of their own history, culture, and traditions while building stronger ties with the African diaspora.
Dr. Kwoba also expressed concern about what he described as Sierra Leone's weak reading culture, pointing to the limited number of bookstores and reading clubs. "How can we solve problems if we do not understand them? Education is the key," he remarked.
Delivering remarks at the event, Professor Ibrahim Abdallah, historian and lecturer at Fourah Bay College, underscored the importance of universities and public forums in promoting critical thinking and African intellectual traditions.
He observed that many young Africans have little exposure to the continent's liberation thinkers and stressed that educational institutions must help students appreciate African scholarship and its relevance to modern challenges. "Our young people need to understand these histories because they provide lessons on leadership, justice, self-reliance, and social transformation," Professor Abdallah said. He added that Pan-Africanism should be viewed not only as a historical movement but also as a practical framework for addressing unemployment, inequality, poor governance, and questions of African identity.
He commended PAC-SL for creating a platform that brought together academics, students, and the wider public, emphasizing the need for greater investment in reading, research, and intellectual engagement.
Speaking on behalf of the students, Theodora Sencil of Ansarul Islamic Secondary School said the lecture introduced her to Hubert Harrison for the first time. "We are not taught many of these great leaders in schools. I have gained so much knowledge today and learned the importance of love and unity," she said.
PAC-SL Secretary General Abdul Malik Kamara reaffirmed the organization's commitment to promoting Pan-African education and intellectual exchange across Sierra Leone.
He said the book launch forms part of ongoing efforts to reconnect Africans with their intellectual heritage and inspire collective action toward continental unity under the theme: "One People • One Destiny • One Africa."
#𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬

21/07/2026

FBC Unveils Official Bicentenary Anthem
By Eagleville

Fourah Bay College (FBC), University of Sierra Leone, has officially unveiled its Bicentenary Anthem on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, as part of activities marking the institution's forthcoming 200th anniversary celebrations..
The anthem, written, composed and performed by the Magical Podium Students, pays tribute to Fourah Bay College's rich history of academic excellence, leadership and service while inspiring pride, unity and a shared commitment to preserving the institution's enduring legacy.
The unveiling, held at the FBC Multipurpose Hall during an official listening session, brought together members of the university's leadership, academic and administrative staff, the Bicentenary Committee, students and alumni for the anthem's first public performance.
The programme also showcased the artistic talents of the Magical Podium Students. Hawanatu Bangura recited an original poem in honour of the bicentenary, while Ibrahim S. Bangura performed Homeland Wind, an original flute composition from his forthcoming flute EP, 'Footprint'.
The anthem project was fully sponsored by Paul Conteh, popularly known as "Octopus," a Fourah Bay College lecturer and pioneer member of the Magical Podium who now resides in the United States.
Established by the university to provide a platform for students with artistic talents, the Magical Podium has become an important outlet for promoting creativity, culture and the institution through music, poetry and other performing arts.
The anthem was produced by renowned music producer Solomon Fatoma, popularly known as Solo's Beat, who said he intentionally blended traditional Sierra Leonean musical elements with contemporary African sounds to create a composition that reflects both the institution's rich heritage and its vision for the future. "When I was approached by the university to produce this anthem, I asked myself how I could make it truly Sierra Leonean. I fused different Sierra Leonean musical styles, and the final product reflects our identity," he said with pride.
Chairman of the Sports and Entertainment Sub-Committee of the Bicentenary Committee, Rev. Harding, praised the Magical Podium Students for their dedication and creativity, describing the anthem as a meaningful contribution to one of the college's most historic celebrations. "Music is something special that we can embrace in our day-to-day lives," he said, adding that the Bible also highlights the significance of music in inspiring and bringing people together.
Deputy Registrar Brima Bah described the unveiling as a landmark moment in the college's history.
Although Fourah Bay College has long had its official college song, Bah said the Bicentenary Anthem provides a unique musical identity for the institution's 200th anniversary and is expected to become a lasting symbol of its heritage.
He also commended Paul Conteh for sponsoring the project. "This support demonstrates the commitment of our alumni to nurturing creativity and giving back to their alma mater. Paul Conteh has contributed immensely to the University of Sierra Leone, and his impact continues to grow even after leaving the institution," Bah said.
Chairperson of the Bicentenary Committee, Professor Isha Ibrahim Fornah, said the bicentenary celebrations are intended to showcase not only Fourah Bay College's academic excellence but also the remarkable talents of its students. "The university is not just about intellectual engagement; it is also about developing talent, creativity and responsible citizenship," she said.
She praised the Magical Podium Students for producing the anthem despite their academic commitments and examinations, describing their efforts as an example of leadership and service.
Professor Fornah urged students, staff and alumni to embrace the anthem and actively participate in the bicentenary activities. "This celebration will happen only once. It is the responsibility of each and every one of us to make it memorable. We have a full calendar of activities, and we want everyone to participate and encourage others to do the same."
She also acknowledged the continued support of the university leadership, noting that the Bicentenary Committee is working closely with the Vice-Chancellor and management to ensure a successful celebration.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Andrew C. M. Mbayo, commended the Magical Podium Students for their innovation and commitment to preserving the university's legacy.
He said the unveiling demonstrated the institution's readiness for its historic bicentenary and reflects the creativity and patriotism of its students. "I want to sincerely commend the Magical Podium Students for the ingenuity, creativity and dedication they have demonstrated in composing this anthem. On behalf of the university administration, I express our profound appreciation for this remarkable contribution."
Describing the anthem as more than just a song, Professor Mbayo said it represents both Fourah Bay College and Sierra Leone. "Sierra Leone belongs to all of us, and no one will build it for us except ourselves. Through your creativity and commitment, you have demonstrated the role young people can play in national development," he said.
He assured the students of the administration's continued support for creative initiatives and encouraged them to continue using music and innovation to promote the university.
To broaden public engagement, the Magical Podium Students launched a Bicentenary TikTok Challenge, inviting students, alumni and members of the public to create short videos using the anthem. Participants are encouraged to tag the Magical Podium platform, with prizes to be awarded to the most creative entries.
The unveiling marks the beginning of activities leading to Fourah Bay College's bicentenary celebrations, which will run from July 2026 to February 2027. The celebration will feature public lectures, academic conferences, cultural festivals, sporting events, alumni engagements, community outreach programmes and other commemorative activities before culminating on 18 February 2027, exactly 200 years after the founding of Fourah Bay College.
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20/07/2026

BAFTA-Nominated Sierra Leonean Performer Inspires Creatives at Ballanta Masterclass

By Eagleville

BAFTA-nominated performer, Gwyn Jay Allen, has inspired aspiring musicians, actors, and other creatives during The Art of Entertainment masterclass held in Freetown on Friday, July 10, 2026.
The event aimed to educate participants on the importance of the arts while equipping them with practical skills for successful careers in the creative industry.
Allen, an internationally acclaimed jazz musician, conducted the music masterclass, which featured live performances at the Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts (BAMPA).
Throughout the session, Allen explored key aspects of professional performance, including stagecraft, audience engagement, microphone technique, breath control, storytelling, and professional conduct. Through practical demonstrations, he showed participants how performers can establish stronger emotional connections with audiences while maintaining high artistic standards.
The free event attracted emerging performers, entertainment professionals, students, and arts enthusiasts eager to learn from Allen's decades of experience in the global entertainment industry. Hosted by lawyer and media personality Nicky Spencer-Coker, the interactive session combined discussions, practical demonstrations, and live performances designed to strengthen participants' artistic and professional skills.
Speaking during the question-and-answer session, Allen reflected on his journey in the creative industry, stressing that discipline, consistency, professionalism, and purpose are essential ingredients for a successful career. "You have to know your purpose. Above all, discipline is what can actually help us achieve what we are looking for. Even if you are naturally talented, without discipline you are going nowhere," Allen said.
He encouraged participants to continually study and refine their craft, noting that talent alone is not enough to sustain a successful career. "Let us not limit our artistic talents to Sierra Leone. Let us represent our country internationally through our creative arts. It will help grow and uplift our nation. We must continue improving our craft and strive for higher standards," he said.
Allen also called for greater investment in Sierra Leone's cultural heritage, arguing that preserving and promoting local artistic traditions would strengthen both the country's tourism sector and creative economy. "We need to shine more light on the arts and our unique Sierra Leonean culture. Sadly, interest has declined, and some traditions are gradually fading. For the arts to play a greater role in tourism and cultural development, dedicated investment and sustained support are essential," he added.
Spencer-Coker encouraged Sierra Leone's emerging artists to embrace mentorship and continuous learning while remaining grounded in their cultural identity. She noted that exposure to international best practices would enable local performers to compete globally without losing their authenticity.
During the interactive session, participants posed questions on career development and the future of Sierra Leone's entertainment industry. Dr. Julius Spencer asked how Sierra Leonean artists could distinguish themselves on the international stage. Allen repeated that discipline, professionalism, and commitment to excellence remain the foundation of success in any artistic field.
Renowned music producer Solomon Fatoma, popularly known as Solo's Beat, asked how musicians could remain consistent without relying heavily on social media attention. Allen advised artists to focus on mastering their craft, producing quality work, and maintaining passion for their profession rather than seeking online validation.
Participants described the masterclass as inspiring and informative, saying the practical advice provided valuable guidance for building careers in music, theatre, and other performing arts.
Fatu Sesay, a theatre prodigy who attended the event, described the masterclass as highly informative and worthwhile. “I was really impressed, not only by Allen's performances but also by the way he made the knowledge easy for us to understand. This is the kind of programme I would love to attend every month," she said.
There was a lot of humor in the event which was a quality and skill Allen said that performers should have to enhance and increase enjoyment in their performances.
Desmond Turay of Salone Leone Hidden Gems Tours and Travels congratulated BAMPA and thanked Allen for delivering an exceptional masterclass. "We were entertained and educated. We appreciate everything about the event," he said.
The programme concluded with a networking session that allowed participants to engage directly with Allen and fellow creatives, reinforcing the importance of collaboration, passion, discipline, and lifelong learning.
His mother, Mrs. Cecilia Allen is the proprietor of Tower Hill Kindergarten and Preparatory School.
Born in Loughborough, England, to Sierra Leonean parents, Allen began his musical journey by performing on trains while commuting to work. Although he is an architect by profession, in 1992, he made a decision to pursue music professionally, performing at London's prestigious Hilton and Dorchester hotels.
Allen gained international recognition in 1997 when he became a finalist on the popular British television talent show Stars in Their Eyes, performing as jazz legend Louis Armstrong. His career later expanded into theatre, international touring, and collaborations with renowned artists including Diana Ross, Herbie Hancock, Basement Jaxx, and Maxi Priest. Gwyn has been a board director of the Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts, and continues to inspire and impart knowledge and experiences to staff and students.
His recordings include the gospel album Land of Milk and Money, the internationally acclaimed I Love Louis–A Creole Tribute to Louis Armstrong, and his latest project, Freetown–The Return, which blends West African folk music with soul, blues, and jazz. Allen recently performed songs from the album during the opening ceremony of Freetown's 230th anniversary celebrations.

20/07/2026

11 Sierra Leoneans Honored at the 3rd Annual Salone Awards of Excellence USA in California!

20/07/2026

11 Sierra Leoneans Honored at the 3rd Annual Salone Awards of Excellence USA in California!

By Eagleville

Excellence knows no borders!

The Salone Awards of Excellence USA, an organization dedicated to celebrating achievement and preserving the legacy of Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora, has recently recognized 11 outstanding Sierra Leoneans for their remarkable contributions to leadership, humanitarian service, entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, entertainment, and community development during its Third Annual Awards Ceremony held at the Tracy Civic Center in California

Held under the inspiring theme 'Wan Salone', the event brought together Sierra Leoneans from across the United States to celebrate individuals whose dedication, sacrifice, and achievements continue to uplift the Sierra Leonean community around the world.

Award Recipients Include:

Kadijatu Rahman Kabba–Honorary Woman of the Year & People's Choice Award for her outstanding humanitarian service and community leadership.

Joseph Sahr Musa–Ultimate Icon & Global Impact Award for preserving Sierra Leone's cultural heritage and promoting community development.

Gerald S. Samah Jr. (Deejay Sen)–Legendary DJ in Entertainment Award for his immense contribution to Sierra Leone's entertainment industry.

Late Gerald Senesie Samah Sr. (DJ Samah)–Lifetime Achievement Award (Male)*, honored posthumously for his lasting impact on entertainment and community service.

Late Prosper Euphemia Davies–Lifetime Achievement Award (Female) for her enduring legacy of compassion, leadership, and service.

Abdulkarim Dumbuya (AKD The Great)–Most Excellent Personality of the Year* for combining scholarship, entertainment, and humanitarian work.

Dalo Smok –Ultimate Icon/Entertainment Manager of the Year for promoting Sierra Leonean music and artists in the diaspora.

Shady Baby– Legendary Musician of the Year for using music to promote peace, unity, and national cohesion.
Joseph Mustapha–Recognized for his outstanding commitment to community development.

Mohamed Tarawali (Shogan)–Best Humanitarian of the Year for his charitable work supporting vulnerable communities.

Mike Anthony–Best MC/Show Presenter of the Year for his professionalism and contribution to entertainment.

Speaking at the ceremony, Founder and CEO James Barack Kamara said the awards celebrate Sierra Leoneans whose dedication, integrity, and selfless service continue to inspire others and strengthen communities across the globe.
Congratulations to all the award recipients for making Sierra Leone proud!

Tag someone who deserves to be celebrated for making a difference!

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19/07/2026