Nightwatch Newspaper, 29 Rawdon Street, Freetown (2025)

02/10/2025

Motorbike Rider Behind Bars For Alleged Fraud
By Hannah Sanusie

Paul Koroma a motorbike rider made another appearance before Magistrate John Manso Fornah of Pademba Road Court No.2 in Freetown on a count charge to wit, fraudulent conversion contrary to Section 20 (1) (iv) (a) of the Larceny Act of 1916

According to the particulars of offence, on Sunday, 17th August, 2025 at Sumaila Town in the Western Area in Freetown, fraudulently converted to his own use or benefit certain properties including one blac- colour Bajaj motorbike with registration number AUR 560 valued at Twelve Thousand Leones (Le 12,000) entrusted to him by Nelson Bundu Bangura for the purpose of safe keeping, said property of Nelson Bundu Bangura.

When the charge was read and explained to the defendant no plea was taken.

Detective Police Constable 18235 Thoronka K.K. led in evidence Prosecution Witness 1, Nelson Bundu Bangura a commercial motorbike rider. He recalled the 17th August, 2025, that something transpired between himself and the defendant when the defendant met him at home and requested for assistance to get engaged into something meaningful. He recalled remembering that a neighbour by the name Mr. John has a motorbike and he was looking for a rider, and that he recommended the defendant to Mr. John and the motorbike was given to him. He recalled that the motorbike was a Bajaj Boxer model.

But according to the PW1, since the day the said motorbike was handed over to the defendant, he was not seen again. PW1 said he had an agreement with the defendant to be paying a daily ‘Master-Money” of Le 130.0). He emphasized the defendant’s disappearance went on for weeks and months without also paying to him on a daily basis the amount of Le 130.0) One Hundred and Thirty Leones they had agreed that should be paid by the defendant to PW1.

He explained that the defendant was apprehended by his younger brother and brought to him. He narrated that when he enquired from the defendant about the motorbike, he did not tell him anything substantial about the motorbike so, he went and reported the matter at the New England Police Station where statements were obtained from him and his witness.

The defendant was not at the moment represented by any legal Counsel, so he therefore cross-examined the witness himself.

Meanwhile, Magistrate John Manso Fornah refused to grant bail and sent the defendant on remand at the male correctional facility in Freetown and adjourned the matter to 9th October, 2025.

https://nightwatchnewspaper.com/motorbike-rider-behind-bars-for-alleged-fraud/?feed_id=1742&_unique_id=68debeda9785c

01/10/2025

Sorie Ibrahim Sesay: Port Loko’s Choice for APC 2026
The people of Port Loko District have unanimously endorsed Sorie Ibrahim Sesay as their political redeemer to contest in the upcoming flag bearer race of the All People’s Congress (APC) to contend the Presidential Election of 2028. The young aspirant is a dynamic, development oriented personality who has contributed immensely to the growth of Sierra Leone.

For many in Port Loko, Sesay is more than just a political aspirant—he is a symbol of youthful energy, development-driven leadership, and a promise of unity at a time when Sierra Leone needs it most.

The Gem has demonstrated his acumen in many projects supported by the World Bank for the development of Sierra Leone. His experience and positive outputs are footprints in many districts across Sierra Leone, especially on read rehabilitation and construction and agricultural transformation.

Many stakeholders and indigenes of Port Loko are currently making a clarion call on the APC political stalwarts to throw their weights behind Sorie Ibrahim Sesay for the development and unity Sierra Leone.

Investigation carried by our media team revealed that Sorie Ibrahim Sesay initiative through several donor projects implementations helps the current and past government. He emphasized that the citizens of Sierra Leone need basic amenities, including portable water supply, good roads, electricity medical facilities, and the empowerment of middle level manpower.

He urged the people of APC to be united, adding that unity is strength. He noted that as a party, they don't need deflection, so the party would come in 2028. According to him, he wants the APC to consider the goodwill of the people in their decision-making, especially for the selection of aspirants.

"My endorsement by the people of Port Loko is not a mistake," he said.

He recalled that during the struggle of the APC, Port Loko has played a significant role in ensuring the party's victory. He reflected on their sufferings and encouraged other districts to join hands with Port Loko and support his flagbearer aspirations.

He also called on the APC stakeholders to forget their suffering and intimidation and come forward to promote his positive intention in order to win the 2028 General Elections, urging others to support Port Loko District this time.

He said the sacrifices of the late Vice President Sorie Ibrahim (S.I.) Koroma were not mistakes but a payback to him.

Sesay’s name is not new in national development circles. Over the years, he has worked on several World Bank–supported projects, leaving tangible footprints in road rehabilitation, agricultural transformation, and community-based initiatives. From constructing vital road networks to introducing agricultural reforms that uplift rural communities, Sesay has quietly built a legacy of results-oriented leadership.

Stakeholders from his home district point to these accomplishments as proof of his readiness for higher office. “Sorie has shown that he understands the development needs of Sierra Leone. He has the skills, the connections, and the vision to deliver,” says Mohamed Kamara, a youth leader in Port Loko City.

One of the youth leaders of Port Loko City, Mohamed Kamara, informed that the issues of Sorie Ibrahim Sesay not new and went on to call on the people of Sierra Leone to support Sorie Ibrahim Sesay. He called on colleague youth and elders to support the aspirant. Many have also described Sorie Ibrahim Sesay as one of the best flagbearer aspirants for the 2028 General election.

The aspirant in his serial statements has always called upon compatriots to promote unity, peace, and freedom.

At every opportunity, Sesay emphasizes the value of unity within the APC.

He speaks of unity as strength for the APC party, and has also severally cautioned the party against division if the party is to reclaim power in 2028. For him and most of his supporters at home and in the Diaspora, his endorsement is not a mistake by the people of Port Loko; rather, it is a call for the party to listen to the voice and the clarion call of the people.

He has reminded supporters of Port Loko’s historic role in strengthening the APC, urging other districts to stand with them in this new political journey. For Sesay, the 2028 elections are not just about politics but about rebuilding a party and a nation on the foundations of peace, unity, and development.

Sorie Ibrahim Sesay has expressed dissatisfaction over the underdevelopment state of Port Loko, irrespective of its natural mining contributions to the State.

In a recent development from Washington DC, Sorie Ibrahim Sesay undoubtedly built the confidence of the Metropolitan APC Chapter. The Aspirant as Keynote speaker, demonstrated his competence to the well-attended face-to-face monthly conference held on August 31st, 2025, which marked the conclusion of the chapter's August engagements. Sorie Ibrahim Sesay, who was featured as the distinguished speaker, presented a powerful message.

As anticipation builds for his formal declaration of intent, the momentum behind Sorie Ibrahim Sesay is resonating mills and bounds in the hearts of APC supporters across the country. It is becoming an undeniable phenomenon. To these supporters, he represents not just the hope of Port Loko; but the promise of a stronger, united APC and a better Sierra Leone.

With the endorsement of his people and growing recognition both locally and internationally, Sorie Ibrahim Sesay stands as one of the most formidable contenders for the APC flagbearer Ticket in 2026.

https://nightwatchnewspaper.com/sorie-ibrahim-sesay-port-lokos-choice-for-apc-2026/?feed_id=1741&_unique_id=68dd4dd3d422c

30/09/2025

LAWYERS President Blasts Bio’s Young Appointees for Failing Sierra Leone
By Musa Paul Feika

In a hard hitting interview on Liberty Online TV, Legal Practitioner and President of the Lawyers’ Society, Augustine Sorie Sengbe Marrah, has launched a blistering critique of President Julius Maada Bio’s youthful appointees, accusing them of failing Sierra Leone through incompetence, poor performance, and lack of accountability.

Sengbe Marrah, one of the country’s most outspoken lawyers and social commentators, acknowledged the value of youth participation in governance but insisted that inclusion must be matched with competence and results. He lamented that many of the young leaders entrusted with critical state portfolios have performed “far below expectations.”

“It is commendable to have young people in positions of authority, but governance is about results, accountability, and vision not titles,” Sengbe Marrah declared.

Unfulfilled Promise of Youth Leadership:

Since assuming power in 2018, President Bio has prided himself on promoting youthful leaders into government, presenting them as the face of a new, dynamic Sierra Leone. Several ministries, agencies, and commissions are currently headed by young appointees, with the administration portraying them as symbols of innovation and inclusivity.

However, according to Sengbe Marrah, the reality has been disappointing. He argued that many of these appointees have failed to grasp the complexities of policy formulation and ex*****on, leaving significant gaps in governance and public service delivery.

“Leadership is not about slogans or being called ‘Honorable.’ Leadership is about measurable impact, sound decision making, and a legacy that uplifts institutions and communities,” he stressed.

Concerns over Competence and Accountability: The Lawyers’ President noted that the expectations placed on these young officials were high not only from the government but also from the public, who saw their appointments as a chance for renewal.

Unfortunately, he said, many have fallen into the trap of political patronage, neglecting their core responsibilities, pointing to failures in policy ex*****on, weak institutional reforms, and a lack of transparency as recurring issues that have tarnished the image of youthful governance.

“Youth is a resource, but without discipline, guidance, and accountability, it remains untapped potential,” Sengbe Marrah cautioned.

Despite his criticism, Sengbe Marrah did not dismiss the idea of youth leadership. Instead, he urged the government to invest more in mentorship, training, and capacity building programs that can prepare young leaders for the daunting challenges of public administration.

He argued that political appointments should not be used as rewards for loyalty or campaign support but should instead be anchored in merit, integrity, and a proven track record of service.

The Intensification of Public Debate:

Lawyer Sorie Sengbe Marrah’s remarks come at a time of growing public debate over the performance of young leaders in government. While some citizens applaud their energy and fresh perspectives, others complain that their tenure has been marked by arrogance, inexperience, and a lack of tangible progress.

Analysts say the performance of these youthful appointees could make or break the government’s broader agenda of inclusivity and innovation. A failure to deliver, they argue, risks not only eroding public trust but also undermining the very ideals of youth empowerment and political renewal that the administration has championed.

For Sengbe Marrah, the message is clear, young officials must rise above rhetoric and prove their worth by delivering results that directly benefit ordinary Sierra Leoneans.

“The people of Sierra Leone want leaders who can transform their lives through policies and actions not empty speeches,” he concluded.

As Sierra Leone continues its experiment with youthful leadership, Sengbe Marrah’s criticism stands as both a warning and a challenge unless young appointees rise to the occasion, their legacy may not be one of progress and innovation but of wasted opportunity.

https://nightwatchnewspaper.com/lawyers-president-blasts-bios-young-appointees-for-failing-sierra-leone/?feed_id=1740&_unique_id=68dbc1cf6569a

30/09/2025

Six Alleged Murderers of Bo Priest Continue in Remand
By Hassanatu I. Conteh

Martin Sellu, Gbassay Swarray, Foday Sallu, John Bangalie alias Boika, Joseph Gilamaja Kamara alias Shine, and Foday Alhassan Sesay made another appearance before Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah of Pademba Road Court No.1 in Freetown on five count charges to wit: conspiracy to commit robbery with aggravation, conspiracy to murder, robbery with aggravation, murder, and receiving stolen goods contrary to Section 33 (1) of the Larceny Act 1916.

According to the particulars of offence, between the 1st and 29th of August 2025 in Bo City, Southern Province, the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th defendants conspired together with other persons unknown to commit robbery with aggravation.

Count two stated that on the same date and place, the said defendants conspired together with others unknown to commit murder.

Count three furthered that on the 30th of August 2025 at Buma III Section, Kenema City in the Eastern Province, the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th defendants, being armed with a locally made single-barrel gun, robbed Reverend Father Augustine Dauda Amadu of one grey Lenovo laptop computer valued at three hundred and fifty United States dollars and physical cash of five thousand Leones. At the time, or immediately before or after the said robbery, they used personal violence against Reverend Father Augustine Dauda Amadu.

Count four alleged that on the 30th of August 2025, at Buma III Section, in Kenema City, the said defendants murdered Reverend Father Augustine Dauda Amadu.

Count five stated that on the 29th of August 2025, at Waterloo in the Western Area, the 6th defendant received one grey Lenovo laptop computer valued at three hundred and fifty United States dollars, property of Paul Allan Mose Jones, knowing same to have been stolen.

After the charges were read and explained, no plea was taken. The 6th defendant pleaded not guilty.

Inspector M. Tarawally led in evidence PW2, Reverend Father Michael Thomas Lamboi, who testified that he knew both the deceased and the defendants in the dock. He recalled that on the 30th of August 2025, after morning prayers at his church, he discovered several missed calls on his phone. Upon returning one of the calls, he was informed of the death of the deceased. Acting on this information, he immediately went to Kenema. On his way, he met an ambulance and some people heading to the mortuary. He proceeded to the deceased’s residence but found it closed, after which he went to the Kenema Police Station and made a statement. He added that the police informed him the deceased would be taken to Freetown for a post-mortem examination. He accompanied the police and the deceased to the 34 Military Hospitals, where the body was placed in the morgue. On the 18th of September, the body was handed over to him for burial.

PW3, Detective Police Officer Issa Kamara (8576 Kamara I), attached at the CID Headquarters, testified that on the 15th of September 2025, while on duty, Inspector Borbor Foday handed over to him one old Dell laptop computer, which he registered with serial number 115/2025. He confirmed that the laptop had been in police custody and further produced and tendered it in court, where it was marked as Exhibit Q.

Defense counsel applied for bail on behalf of the six accused persons. However, Magistrate Jah, considering the gravity of the offences, remanded all six defendants at the Male Correctional Center and adjourned the matter to the 6th of October 2025.

https://nightwatchnewspaper.com/six-alleged-murderers-of-bo-priest-continue-in-remand/?feed_id=1739&_unique_id=68dbc16a22101

30/09/2025

APC Report Claims Samura Kamara Won 2023 Presidential Election
The All People’s Congress (APC) has released a comprehensive report challenging the outcome of Sierra Leone’s June 24, 2023 presidential election, insisting that its candidate, Dr. Samura Mathew Wilson Kamara, was the rightful winner.

The party’s findings directly contradict the official results announced by the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), which declared incumbent President Julius Maada Bio of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) the victor.

According to the ECSL, President Bio secured a second term after surpassing the 55 percent threshold required for a first round victory.

However, the APC describes this outcome as an “electoral coup,” claiming that widespread irregularities and deliberate manipulation robbed the people of their democratic will.

Independent APC Tally:

At the heart of the APC’s case is its independent tallying of Results and Reconciliation Forms (RRFs). The party reported that it successfully collected and analyzed data from 8,303 polling stations, representing 70.17 percent of the total 11,832 polling stations nationwide.

The RRFs, signed by ECSL officials and party agents, including those from the SLPP, were collated by the APC’s technical team. Based on this analysis, the APC concluded that Dr. Samura Kamara won with 57.15 percent of the vote, while President Bio secured 39.8 percent.

“This clearly shows that our candidate won outright in the first round,” the report states, “and that the figures announced by ECSL do not reflect the true will of Sierra Leoneans.”

Allegations of Irregularities, the APC’s report accuses the ECSL of presiding over what it calls the most flawed election in Sierra Leone’s post war history. The alleged irregularities including over voting in multiple districts, where the number of ballots cast exceeded the number of registered voters, inflated turnout in SLPP strongholds, with suspiciously high voter participation compared to historical patterns.

Manipulation of invalid votes, reducing them to an implausibly low 0.39 percent, compared to between 4.5 and 7 percent in past elections and refusal to publish polling station level results, which the party argues is a violation of the Public Elections Act and a deliberate attempt to hide discrepancies.

The report also highlights what it describes as “mathematical improbabilities” in the official results. In some districts, voter averages exceeded 300 per polling station, the maximum allowed. In others, turnout figures dropped drastically between the ECSL’s partial (60 percent) announcement and the final tally, raising suspicions of manipulation.

Criticism of Census and Voter Registration:

Beyond election-day irregularities, the APC points to structural issues that it says tilted the playing field in favor of the ruling party.

The 2021 mid-term census, which the opposition boycotted, is described in the report as a “rogue census” designed to reduce political representation in APC strongholds in the North and West while boosting seats in the SLPP dominated South and East.

The census results, according to the APC, were later used to allocate parliamentary and council seats unfairly.

Similarly, the party alleges that the 2022 voter registration exercise was marred by obstruction, intimidation, and denial of registration in opposition areas.

Meanwhile, registration in SLPP strongholds was reportedly conducted smoothly, even extending across borders into Guinea and Liberia.

The APC also criticized the quality of voter identification cards issued in 2023, citing blurred photos, missing details, and incomplete information as part of what it described as a pattern of mismanagement by the ECSL.

Observer missions raised concerns; the APC’s claims are not made in isolation. Several international and domestic observer groups also questioned the credibility of the 2023 election results.

The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU-EOM), the Carter Center, and Sierra Leone’s own National Elections Watch (NEW) all cited serious transparency failures.

NEW’s Parallel Vote Tabulation (PVT), which independently projected results, revealed inconsistencies with the ECSL’s figures and placed invalid votes at around 5 percent far higher than the commission reported.

The Carter Center and EU missions also criticized the ECSL’s refusal to release disaggregated polling station results, warning that the credibility of the process was undermined.

Recommendations and demands, in light of what it describes as systemic electoral malpractice, the APC is calling for sweeping reforms. Key among its recommendations include: the immediate resignation or removal of the ECSL leadership, including the Chief Electoral Commissioner, regional commissioners, and senior staff responsible for the 2023 elections., a parliamentary process to strip ECSL commissioners of constitutional protection if they refuse to step down.

Establishment of a tribunal to investigate alleged wrongdoings, with prosecutions for those found culpable.

Appointment of an interim caretaker team, potentially with experts seconded from ECOWAS, to oversee electoral reforms and rebuild public confidence and ensure reforms to ensure greater transparency, including mandatory publication of polling station level results, strict tallying procedures at district and regional levels, and stronger penalties for noncompliance.

The report also calls for the removal of senior management at the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), the Political Parties Registration Commission (PPRC), and Statistics Sierra Leone (SSL), accusing them of undermining the credibility of the electoral process through mismanagement and political bias.

APC’s Final Position, the APC concludes that the 2023 election was not free, fair, or credible, insisting that Dr. Samura Kamara should be recognized as the rightful winner.

“The evidence from our Results and Reconciliation Forms is clear. The people of Sierra Leone voted for change. What happened instead was an electoral coup that robbed them of their democratic choice.” the report declares.

The party argues that without urgent reforms, Sierra Leone’s democracy faces a crisis of legitimacy, warning that continued mistrust in electoral institutions could destabilize the country and erode public faith in democratic governance.

Looking at political implications, the APC’s report is expected to further intensify political tensions in Sierra Leone. While the government maintains that the ECSL’s results are final, the opposition’s rejection of the outcome adds weight to ongoing calls for electoral reform.

The release of the report also comes amid a fragile climate, following the signing of the October 2023 Agreement for National Unity between the APC and the ruling SLPP. Critics argue that little progress has been made under that agreement, and the APC’s latest position could test the durability of the fragile political truce.

For many observers, the dispute underscores a recurring challenge in Sierra Leone’s democracy, ensuring that elections are not only peaceful but also credible, transparent, and trusted by all sides.

In a nutshell, the APC’s 2023 Presidential Election Report paints a damning picture of Sierra Leone’s electoral process, alleging systematic fraud, manipulation, and failure of institutions tasked with safeguarding democracy. While the ECSL has stood by its results, the opposition’s insistence that Samura Kamara won outright raises fundamental questions about legitimacy.

As the dust settles, Sierra Leone’s path forward may depend on whether its leaders can address the concerns raised, implement meaningful reforms, and rebuild trust in the nation’s electoral system. Without such steps, the risk of further political instability looms large.

https://nightwatchnewspaper.com/apc-report-claims-samura-kamara-won-2023-presidential-election/?feed_id=1738&_unique_id=68dbbe06b391f

29/09/2025

ECOWAS and GIZ Empower Sierra Leone Journalists Against Misinformation
By Janet A. Sesay

A resounding call for truth resonated through Freetown as the ECOWAS National Office, in partnership with GIZ and the Media Foundation for West Africa, inaugurated a transformative two-day training workshop aimed at fortifying journalists' abilities to combat the alarming rise of misinformation and disinformation in West Africa.

During the opening ceremony, Ambassador John Azuma representing ECOWAS delivered a passionate speech highlighting the pervasive threat that unchecked false information poses to peace, stability, and democratic governance across the sub-region. They underscored the pivotal role journalists play, stating that they serve not only as purveyors of news but as vital custodians of truth and public trust, armed with the responsibility to report accurately and ethically.

Designed as an interactive and engaging experience, the training seeks to elevate the skills of media professionals in verifying information, recognizing manipulation, and ensuring the credibility of their reports. Participants are encouraged to absorb the rich knowledge and practical tools provided, viewing them as essential components in nurturing peace, unity, and resilience within their communities.

A representative from GIZ, Johannes Behrens addressing the audience on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, affirmed Germany’s steadfast commitment to upholding information integrity in West Africa. They poignantly articulated that misinformation and disinformation transcend mere media challenges; they represent formidable national security threats that can spur instability, erode governance, and hinder economic development.

“Now, more than ever, there is a pressing need for independent, diverse, and professional media,” one GIZ official asserted. This statement resonated deeply in the context of a digitally-driven world, where social media can rapidly disseminate falsehoods, underscoring the urgent need for journalists to act as the frontline defenders against propaganda, manipulated content, and misleading narratives.

Barbara Kirscho from the GIZ-ECOWAS National Unit passionately emphasized that the Commission’s Vision 2050 focuses on fostering peace, ensuring security, and building resilient democratic institutions, with the integrity of information being central to these aspirations. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sierra Leonean government and its citizens for their warm hospitality and to the partners for their generous technical and financial support that made the workshop a reality.

Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in meticulous discussions of case studies, exchanged personal experiences, and developed pragmatic strategies aimed at enhancing the accuracy and reliability of their reporting. Facilitators drove home the point that professional journalism transcends mere reporting; it involves crafting narratives that promote stability and social cohesion.

As the first day of the event drew to a close, participants were reminded of their essential role as the “Fourth Estate,” a powerful entity capable of holding those in power accountable and shaping public opinion. “You are wielding the pen that has the potential to transform society,” an impassioned speaker told the gathering, urging them to harness their platforms to fortify democracy rather than undermine it.

The training will progress to include dynamic sessions focused on advanced fact-checking techniques, the cultivation of ethical standards, and fostering collaborative efforts among media organizations to combat disinformation collectively. ECOWAS and GIZ pledged to continue their support for similar initiatives across the region, driven by a shared long-term vision of peace, security, and regional integration.

https://nightwatchnewspaper.com/ecowas-and-giz-empower-sierra-leone-journalists-against-misinformation/?feed_id=1737&_unique_id=68da564ce23cc

29/09/2025

European Union Launches Third “EU for You” Bus Tour Across Sierra Leone
By Janet A. Sesay

The European Union (EU) has launched the 2025 edition of its flagship “EU for You” Bus Tour in Sierra Leone, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening partnerships and bringing development closer to the people.

The launch ceremony took place on Friday 26 September 2025, at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development car park, Tower Hill, Freetown.

EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Jacek Krzysztof Jankowski, officially flagged off the event, describing the initiative as a powerful demonstration of the EU’s solidarity and long-term commitment to Sierra Leone.

The “EU for You” Bus Tour is designed to showcase EU-funded projects and interventions across the country. These span multiple sectors, including agriculture, rural development, infrastructure, youth and women’s empowerment, vocational training, and local governance.

The initiative also aims to enhance visibility, create opportunities for engagement with beneficiaries, and strengthen public awareness of the EU’s support to local authorities and community services such as council halls, water supply, and other social amenities.

This year’s route will cover several districts including Freetown, Kono, Kenema, Kambia, Makeni, Bombali, Bo, Pujehun, Kailahun, and Moyamba, before concluding in Freetown.

Ambassador Jankowski explained that while this is the third edition of the bus tour, it is his first since assuming office.

The 2025 program will run for two weeks one in September and another in December, allowing participants to witness first-hand the results of EU–Sierra Leone cooperation.

“This is more than just a tour. It is testimony to our partnership with the Government and people of Sierra Leone. Our goal is to bring the European Union and its member states closer to the people,” he stated.

He emphasized that the initiative is anchored in the Global Gateway, the EU’s global investment strategy.

“What is the Global Gateway? Simply put, it is our promise to invest in people and the planet. It is about building strong, sustainable connections in transport, energy, and digital infrastructure, but also in education, health, and research,” Jankowski said.

He stressed that the EU prioritizes local needs, while ensuring projects are socially and environmentally responsible.

“Together, we are working to build a prosperous and green Sierra Leone,” he added.

Among the showcased projects are infrastructure initiatives such as the rehabilitation of roads and bridges to connect communities, enhance trade, and expand access to clean energy.

The Ambassador also pointed to EU support for food security and sustainable agriculture, in line with the Government’s Feed Salone priority.

“We are not only supporting food production and supply chains, but also empowering women, who are the main drivers of this sector. By investing in women, we are investing in the heart of Sierra Leone’s families and communities,” he said.

On education and youth empowerment, Jankowski highlighted the EU’s investments in vocational training and skills development, aimed at equipping young Sierra Leoneans with the tools to enter the job market and contribute to national growth.

“This tour will tell a story. Not about projects or donors, but about people—the farmers, students, workers, and women whose lives are being transformed through our partnership. That is the real meaning of the Global Gateway: a shared journey, a common future, and a promise that the European Union is truly ‘EU for You’,” he concluded.

Delivering a goodwill message, Dr. Titus Williams, Deputy Minister of Planning and Economic Development, hailed the EU for its steadfast support.

He described the Bus Tour as a valued tradition, symbolizing the trust, solidarity, and shared commitment that underpin our partnership.

According to Dr. Williams, the initiative is not just symbolic but a journey of engagement, bringing development closer to the people, raising awareness, and showcasing EU-supported projects that are transforming communities across Sierra Leone.

“As the Ministry charged with leading the national development agenda, we fully embrace this initiative. It demonstrates how effective partnerships translate into real impact,” he said.

Dr. Williams added that through collaboration with the EU, Sierra Leone continues to benefit from tangible support in education, health, governance, and livelihoods, directly impacting the everyday lives of citizens.

“Your steadfast support and genuine friendship continue to inspire confidence in our development journey. Sierra Leone deeply values this partnership, and we look forward to even greater collaboration in building a prosperous and inclusive future for all,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Alhaji Manika Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), urged the media to maximize the opportunities provided by the Bus Tour.

“Thank you very much, Mr. Ambassador, for giving journalists this opportunity to access information. As you know, the media survives on information without it, we cannot function,” Kamara said.

He stressed the importance of rural outreach in ensuring balanced reporting on Sierra Leone’s development.

“Too often, the focus is on Freetown, but Freetown is not Sierra Leone. By taking journalists to the rural areas where development is also happening, we can gather first-hand accounts that reflect the true realities of poverty, progress, and challenges faced by communities,” he explained.

Kamara encouraged journalists to engage directly with citizens, document their experiences, and bring their stories to government and development partners.

“That is all we can do, we have given ourselves to write and speak on behalf of the people of Sierra Leone. Please do not let us down. Go and represent SLAJ. Go and represent the media,” he urged.

https://nightwatchnewspaper.com/european-union-launches-third-eu-for-you-bus-tour-across-sierra-leone/?feed_id=1736&_unique_id=68da531eee172

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