http://convenantnewspapersl.com/

Covenant Newspaper, 40c Off Fannah Street, Lower Allentown, Freetown (2026)

30/09/2026

NRA and UNDP Deepen Business Engagement on Tax Compliance and Reform Sustainability

The National Revenue Authority (NRA), with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has engaged business stakeholders on tax compliance, the use of Electronic Cash Registers (ECR) and the Block Management System (BMS).

The engagement, held at The View, Freetown City Council Hall, brought together UNDP representatives, GST-registered businesses, the Sierra Leone Importers Association and senior NRA officials to discuss reforms, hear business concerns and strengthen cooperation.

Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner-General, Deputy Commissioner-General I, Mrs Ann-Marie Baby Harding, thanked the UNDP for supporting the NRA's capacity to serve taxpayers. She highlighted assistance with BMS offices, joint site visits, logistical resources and equipment, noting their contribution to bringing services closer to businesses. She encouraged businesses to share their concerns and urged NRA staff to listen and provide clear, practical guidance.

Deputy Commissioner-General II, Ing. Edmond B. Nonie, called on businesses to work with the NRA to address compliance challenges and promote a more transparent tax system. The Deputy Commissioner of Domestic Tax, Edwin E. Conteh, outlined the Authority's reforms and the responsibilities of businesses and other stakeholders. He noted the ongoing distribution of 5,000 ECR machines and encouraged GST-registered businesses to use the devices for accurate transaction reporting and enhanced compliance.

UNDP representative, Abu Turay, underscored the importance of strengthening domestic revenue mobilisation and highlighted the role of the NRA–UNDP partnership in supporting reforms and bringing tax services closer to businesses.

Business representatives emphasised the need for fair and consistent tax compliance across the business community. They called for stronger oversight, including warehouse checks to ensure that GST declarations reflect imported goods, and for the effective installation and monitoring of ECR machines.

The NRA reaffirmed its commitment to working with businesses and partners to strengthen compliance, improve taxpayer services and support national development.

29/09/2026

Join our Executive Director on Friday 2nd October 2026 as he discusses our work in restoring Freetown degraded ecosystem (wetland and watershed) and YARDO'S vision for a restored Freetown

29/09/2026

NRA Commissioner General Commences Internal Familiarisation Tour

The Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Mr Abu Martin Kanneh, on Monday 28th September 2026, commenced an internal familiarisation tour at the Customs Services Department, Customs House, Cline Town, Freetown. The exercise forms part of efforts to engage staff and strengthen collaboration towards the Authority's revenue mobilisation mandate.

Addressing staff, Mr Kanneh recalled his journey in Customs, starting as a Collector and rising through the ranks to Commissioner of Customs. He noted that he has an in-depth understanding of the Department's critical role in revenue mobilisation and that its overall success depends on firm collaboration.

"I was here as the Commissioner of Customs, so I know the work you are doing. I am here now as Commissioner General, and I want us to work together to achieve the mandate of the NRA," he said.

He disclosed that the Minister of Finance had emphasised Government's need for increased revenue, urging Customs staff to support the drive.

"The Government needs more revenue now than ever before. I am therefore calling on all of you at Customs to support us in that direction," he stated.

Deputy Commissioner General I, Mrs Ann-Marie Baby Harding, urged staff to support the Commissioner General, while stressing the importance of discipline, professionalism and adherence to the law.

"There is no hiding place for anyone who wants to do otherwise," she cautioned, urging staff to conduct themselves within the confines of the law.

Deputy Commissioner General II, Ing. Edmond Benjamin Nonie, challenged staff to focus on delivering results, emphasising his commitment to an open-door policy.

"I am particular about results. We must be able to demonstrate what we are achieving. My door is open," he said.

The Commissioner of Customs Services, Mr Tennyson Bio, called on staff to support Mr Kanneh in delivering on his mandate and assured him of the continued support and cooperation of the Customs Services Department.

The engagement provided an opportunity for the NRA's Senior Management to interact with staff, reinforce teamwork and underscore the importance of Customs in advancing the Authority's revenue mobilisation objectives.

29/09/2026

YARDO-SL Strengthens Community Action on Climate Change in Freetown

Youth Advocacy and Rehabilitation for Development Organisation Sierra Leone (YARDO-SL) has strengthened community action on climate change with a two-day Community Roundtable Engagement for Community Climate Action Ambassadors.

The engagement, held on 25th and 26th September 2026, brought together Ambassadors from Wellington and Allen Town communities in Freetown, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue, collaboration and community-led solutions to climate and environmental challenges.

The key objectives of the roundtable were to support the Ambassadors in developing their Community Climate Action Plans, strengthen community ownership and participation in climate action initiatives, facilitate the establishment of community executive structures across both communities, and encourage collective action and environmental stewardship at the grassroots level.

Through these engagements, YARDO-SL continues to empower communities to take ownership of climate solutions and build a more resilient and environmentally sustainable future.

The activity was supported by the Global Development Network (GDN) and the Japanese Social Development Fund (JSDF).

29/09/2026

NRA and SICPA Conclude Three-Day PTS Workshop for Excise Taxpayers in Freetown

The National Revenue Authority (NRA), in collaboration with SICPA, has concluded a three-day Product Tracing System (PTS) workshop for excise taxpayers in Freetown.

The workshop, held from Tuesday 4th to Thursday 6th August 2026 at Dove's Nest, Aberdeen, Freetown, brought together importers of alcoholic beverages, non-alcoholic beverages, to***co, cement, sugar, cooking oil and fertilisers to enhance compliance and strengthen revenue mobilisation.

According to the General Manager of SICPA, Maxwell Massaquoi, the refresher session was aimed at creating a platform for discussions on tax stamps, including issues and challenges previously encountered by taxpayers. He noted that it was an interactive programme in which participants were given the opportunity to ask questions and receive clarifications.

In his presentation, the Manager of the Excise Office in the Domestic Tax Department of the NRA, Mustapha Fofana, sensitised taxpayers to the changes in the Finance Act 2026 and outlined the key features of the PTS. He provided a detailed explanation of the process for ordering and activating the stamps and highlighted their unique security features. He emphasised the importance of marking all excisable products.

Meanwhile, the Service Centre Technician from SICPA, Alhaji Amadu Kondeh, took participants through the technical aspects of the tax stamp to ensure ease of day-to-day operations.

For further information, contact the NRA on +232-80-839-839 or via [email protected].

27/09/2026

NRA Seals Four Mining Operations Over Outstanding Annual Licence Fees

The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has sealed the operations of four mining companies in Moyamba and Bonthe Districts over reported unpaid annual licence fees totalling US$2,847,270.

The affected companies are Hongtai Mining Limited, with reported outstanding fees of US$147,270; Crystal Peak Mining Limited, with US$1,000,000; SH Mining Limited, with US$1,000,000; and Eldorado Resources Mining Company (SL) Limited, with US$700,000.

Hongtai Mining Limited and Crystal Peak Mining Limited operate in Kongbora Chiefdom, Moyamba District. SH Mining Limited operates in Gbengenor Section, Lower Banta Chiefdom, Moyamba District, while Eldorado Resources Mining Company (SL) Limited operates in Sogbeni Chiefdom, Bonthe District.

The enforcement action is intended to secure payment of the outstanding obligations and ensure compliance with the country's tax laws. The seals will be lifted upon full settlement of the liabilities.

The NRA has advised that enforcement operations are ongoing and that further action may be taken against other companies with outstanding annual licence fees, in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.

For further information, contact the NRA on +232-80-839-839 or via [email protected].

26/09/2026

Ministry of Communications Leads UNGA Roundtable on Energy, Digital Sovereignty and Regional Trade; Africell Highlights Investment Role

NEW YORK, USA — Sierra Leone's Ministry of Communications, Technology and Innovation has led a high-level cross-ministry and private-sector roundtable during the 2026 United Nations General Assembly week, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss energy security, digital sovereignty, connectivity and regional trade.

The roundtable was led by the Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation, Madam Salima Monorma Bah, and brought together the Ministries of Energy and Trade and Industry alongside leading private-sector and technology partners.

Africell Sierra Leone was among the key private-sector participants, contributing to discussions on the country's telecommunications operations, digital infrastructure and future investment opportunities. The company's participation underscored the important role of the private sector in supporting Sierra Leone's digital transformation and expanding connectivity.

The Minister of Energy, Cyril Grant, participated in person, while the Minister of Trade and Industry, Ibrahim Alpha Sesay, joined virtually, reflecting the Government's coordinated approach to addressing the infrastructure and policy requirements of a growing digital economy.

Discussions examined the link between reliable energy, telecommunications infrastructure, data centres, 5G deployment and regional trade, with participants exploring practical opportunities for investment across the digital value chain.

The International Data Center Authority highlighted Sierra Leone's efforts to develop data infrastructure aligned with international standards, while Africell Sierra Leone and Sierratel shared perspectives on current operations and future investment, including the recently approved partnership to relaunch Sierratel under an MVNO model.

Other participants, including Africa Climate and Energy Nexus, Aton Path and AEB, addressed the energy requirements needed to sustain digital infrastructure, while Bell Canada contributed to discussions on 5G deployment.

The roundtable builds on President Julius Maada Bio's UNGA engagements, where he called for greater African ownership and governance of digital infrastructure and encouraged international investors to explore opportunities on the continent.

The discussions also support Sierra Leone's broader ambition to position the country as a regional hub for digital infrastructure, investment and trade, ahead of the inaugural West Africa Integration and Investment Summit scheduled for November.

Africell's participation further reinforces the telecommunications sector's role in Sierra Leone's digital transformation agenda, as Government and private-sector stakeholders work together to build a more connected and investment-ready digital economy.

25/09/2026

NASSIT Strengthens Regional Collaboration with SSNIT Ghana to Enhance Service Delivery

In a strategic move to enhance regional social security cooperation, the Director General of the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), Mr Chernor Mamoud Jalloh, has concluded a productive two-day working visit to the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) of Ghana, aimed at improving service delivery and benefit access for Sierra Leoneans through stronger ties with sister social security institutions and key investment stakeholders.

The visit, which took place from 24th to 25th September 2026, afforded the Director General the opportunity to hold fruitful bilateral discussions with SSNIT's Executive Committee. During the engagement, a comprehensive presentation was delivered on the overview of the SSNIT Scheme, with particular reference to contribution collection, benefit payments and service delivery.

The presentation further highlighted SSNIT's operational reforms, particularly its technology-driven collection systems and improved compliance enforcement, demonstrating the Scheme's commitment to modernisation for the benefit of members and stakeholders.

The two social security institutions agreed to deepen collaboration, emphasising the vital role regional cooperation plays in strengthening social protection across West Africa and inspiring confidence and a sense of collective progress amongst stakeholders.

Beyond social security administration, the Director General also met with the leadership of Regimanuel Gray Ghana, including its Chairman, Mr Emmanuel Botchwey, and Managing Director, Mr Ibrahim Bah, to discuss the existing joint venture with Regimanuel Gray Sierra Leone and the way forward for the partnership.

Mr Jalloh also paid a courtesy visit to the International Social Security Association (ISSA) Liaison Office for West Africa in Accra, where he reaffirmed NASSIT's confidence in ISSA's ongoing support and capacity-building initiatives, which remain crucial for continuous improvement and for sustaining the confidence of its members.

25/09/2026

NASSIT Director General Concludes Operational Tour of Regional Offices

The Director General of the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), Mr Chernor Mamoud Jalloh, has concluded a comprehensive tour of the Trust's regional and district offices, as well as its investment facilities across the country.

Demonstrating his commitment to improving service delivery, strengthening compliance and ensuring prudent investment, the Director General visited Kono, Makeni, Port Loko, Moyamba, Bo and Kenema.

The tour provided an opportunity for the Director General to assess operations on the ground, engage directly with staff and management, review service delivery and inspect NASSIT's investments nationwide.

At each station, Mr Jalloh held open discussions with regional and district staff and emphasised the importance of the Pension Administration System (PAS), which he described as the backbone of NASSIT's operations, whilst encouraging staff to take ownership of the system and ensure its effective utilisation.

Describing service delivery as a vital tool for soft compliance, he stated: "When NASSIT treats members, employers and pensioners professionally, empathetically and promptly, compliance becomes voluntary, making the scheme more appealing."

He outlined his vision of making NASSIT a source of national pride, stating: "An institution that is financially healthy, well managed, transparent and trusted, with clear governance policies and regular reporting to stakeholders." Mr Jalloh reaffirmed his commitment to fairness, equity and the rewarding of performance, emphasising that discipline and integrity would be recognised.

During the tour, the Director General visited all NASSIT investment sites in the regions, including land banks, housing estates and plazas, and enquired about ongoing projects, occupancy rates and management systems. He promised a full review of current investment strategies to ensure that they are prudent, sustainable and profitable for contributors and inspire confidence in future growth.

"The goal," the Director General noted, "is to guarantee that all investments serve their purpose, are sustainable and aligned with the best interests of the Scheme."

Regional and District Managers briefed Mr Jalloh on progress, including successes in expanding membership, compliance activities and enhancing customer service.

Staff members identified challenges, suggested improvements and pledged their unwavering support, expressing confidence in teamwork to support the Director General's leadership and foster a spirit of collective resilience.

The tour concluded at the Eastern Regional Office in Kenema with renewed enthusiasm and a collective resolve to reposition NASSIT for increased efficiency in service delivery and national pride.

25/09/2026

IPAM Commissions New Banking Facilities and Renovated Postgraduate Lecture Rooms

The Management of the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM), University of Sierra Leone, has commissioned its newly constructed banking facilities and renovated state-of-the-art lecture rooms for postgraduate students, including a Students' Information Unit.

The ceremony, held at the IPAM campus, attracted distinguished personalities from the banking sector, the telecommunications industry, the IPAM Alumni Association, the hierarchy of the University of Sierra Leone, and a delegation from the Liberia Institute of Public Administration (LIPA).

Speaking at the event, the administration of IPAM acknowledged the tremendous contributions of its corporate partners and expressed delight at the successful implementation of the project, which is aimed at addressing the challenges students face in paying tuition fees and other related charges.

The College noted that its postgraduate students, given the calibre of professionals enrolled in its programmes, require improved lecture facilities, adding that the newly commissioned facilities represent only the beginning of further developments to come.

Appreciation was extended to the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Sierra Leone, Professor Aiah Lebbie, the Alumni Association, the Chief Executive Officer of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Sierra Leone, Mr Mohamed Alhajie Samoura, the Chief Executive Officer of A Call To Business Bank (ACTB), Mr Kamara, the management and staff of Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB), Rokel Commercial Bank (RCB), Commerce and Mortgage Bank (CMB), Africell, and JIT Capital Group for their continued support to IPAM.

The Dean of Postgraduate Studies at the University of Sierra Leone, Professor Ronnie Frazer-Williams, congratulated IPAM on the renovated lecture rooms and emphasised the importance of a conducive learning environment for master's students.

The newly commissioned banking facilities will host four banks, namely Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB), Rokel Commercial Bank (RCB), Commerce and Mortgage Bank (CMB), and United Bank for Africa (UBA).

Representatives of the banks and corporate partners commended IPAM for demonstrating value for money in the ex*****on of the project.

The ceremony also featured the official commencement of operations by A Call To Business Bank (ACTB) in partnership with IPAM, and the launch of the Student and Staff Computer Loan Scheme by JIT Capital Group, initiatives aimed at promoting financial inclusion and academic excellence.

Speaking on behalf of Africell Sierra Leone, Dr Fatmatta Fatou Taqi reaffirmed Africell's commitment to the implementation of its Memorandum of Understanding with IPAM, which she said had progressed successfully. She stated that the Point of Service established at IPAM is intended to support students and staff, particularly through the Africell Closed User Group (CUG), and to facilitate the payment of tuition fees using Afrimoney services. She added that Africell does not support development for its own sake, but development that complements national development.

The President of the IPAM Alumni Association, Mr Rahman Tom Farmar, applauded the continuous strides made by the IPAM Administration in its developmental drive and reaffirmed the Alumni's support for the growth of IPAM. He noted that the aspiration is for the College to be well positioned to compete globally. Mr Farmar encouraged all former students to join the Alumni Association and to contribute to the development of IPAM, whilst appreciating the trust bestowed upon him to lead the Association and pledging to steer it in the right direction for the benefit of the College.

The Management and Staff of IPAM unanimously extended sincere gratitude to all corporate partners, the University authorities, and well-wishers for their contributions towards the growth and development of the College.

Covenant Newspaper

30/09/2026

29/09/2026

29/09/2026

29/09/2026

29/09/2026

27/09/2026

26/09/2026

25/09/2026

25/09/2026

25/09/2026

Address

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Category

Listing takedown request