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Standard Times Newspaper, Freetown (2025)

12/09/2025

“WOMEN ARE CATALYSTS FOR POSITIVE CHANGE”
…Former Presidents’ Wives Speak
Continuing her mission to empower young girls and women across the subregion, Fatmata Nippe Sow Momoh, wife of Sierra Leone’s late President Joseph Saidu Momoh, is actively networking with prominent women leaders to advance the cause of gender equality and sustainable development.
Recently, Madam Momoh held discussions with Her Excellency André Touré, widow of Guinea’s late President Sékou Touré, and with Vieira, the wife of former Guinea-Bissau President. Their conversation focused on the unique positions they once held in society, and how such influence can be strategically used to drive visibility, mobilize networks, and contribute meaningfully to nation-building in West Africa.
Madam Momoh emphasized the importance of leveraging platforms to champion critical national causes such as education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, child protection, peacebuilding, and climate change, stressing that these areas are essential for building sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable communities.
Highlighting their experience as women once at the heart of political and economic transformation, the former Presidents ‘wives noted that they can still shape public policy by engaging parliaments, government institutions, and international organizations.
Her Excellency André Touré further noted that through their Foundations and charitable organizations, they can advocate and raise awareness on maternal health, literacy, and vocational training, particularly to uplift and empower young girls and women.
The discussions also underscored the need to mobilize resources from local businesses, international donors, and NGOs to support community-driven development projects.
Madam Momoh added that mentoring the next generation of women leaders is a priority, encouraging young women to enter politics, business, and civil society. She also stressed the role of women leaders in promoting reconciliation in polarized societies by bridging political, ethnic, and regional divides.
This initiative, observers believe, could inspire more women to aspire for political office and demonstrate that women can meaningfully influence national development far beyond traditional roles

10/09/2025

NECWOM OVERSEER GRACES RELOCATION & DEDICATION OF NEW PLACE OF WARSHIP

With Jonathan Abass Kamara

The Bible portrays the dedication of the house of God, or any house, as setting it apart for sacred use, acknowledging God's ownership, and inviting His presence and blessings
House dedication is a significant event for families and congregation alike, serving as a ceremonial recognition of God's blessings upon a house.

"By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.
The leadership and members of the New Creation World Outreach Ministries NECWOM Kambia Branch, on Monday September 8, 2025 relocate to Ansumana Street community, unveiling a temporary place of worship with a dedication service witnessed by a battery of Men of God, awaiting the construction and completion of their ultra-modern church building project.

Gracing the occasion, Apostle and Rev. Mrs. Siaka Abraham Kamara, General Overseers joined the battery of pastors and members to support Rev. Hassan Emmanuel Kamara, Pastor in charge and wife to dedicate the temporal structure, described as a significant event for families and the congregation alike, serving as a ceremonial recognition of God's blessings upon a house.
Making his dedication and anointing address, General Overseer, Apostle Siaka Abraham Kamara expressed the need for every house of worship to be dedicated to God, referencing the story of Solomon communicating with God in dedicating the Alter of the Lord in the presence of all Israelites.
He gave a brief history of the previous place of worship, spanning for over eleven years, thanking the land owners and the pastor in charge for his commitment and dedication to service, noting the challenges faced during the trying period.
He thanked all those who in diverse ways contributed to the successful relocation of the church and prayed for divine grace in all their endeavors.

The house, he said, will be opened night and day, and prayed for everlasting victory.
In his exaltation earlier, the Pastor In charge NECWOM Mathinka, Makeni branch, John Miracle Bangura described the event as something bigger in the picture God kept for the relocation of the church, adding that over 11 years spent, in one location, is not a mistake but a divine grace above delay.
"The relocation is a responsibility and time to work for His heart desires; time for reinforcement, prayers, revival and repentance; a fundamental glory in a new community".
"Nisi Dominus Frustra" in Latin - 'except the Lord builds (Except God builds the house).
He encouraged members to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and to be what he referred to as warriors of faith in God to crush out enemies of progress - Joshua 15: 1-4.
Other clergies in the parlor had this to say: "The Lord will command the blessing on you in your store houses and in all to which you set your hand, and He will bless you in the Land which the Lord God provides" - Deut. 28: 6

"Dedication is a requirement for spiritual growth, as the believer with positive volition is yielded to God the Holy spirit and is willing to learn and live ".
"Taking care of God's House. I will allow no sleep to my eyes, no slumber to my eyelids, till I find a place for the Lord, a dwelling for the mighty one of Jacob "David hold a passion for the house of God" - Psalm 132
The story gallops in the parlor with a message of gratitude to the clergies who attended the event, namely, the Living Waters Ministry, the Kambia District Pastoral Council, the New Harvest Global Ministry and the Glory Mission Network, and others
Pouring of anointing oil to the four corners of the building, and upon the pastor in charge, Rev. Hassan Emmanuel Kamara with prayers for more energy, strength, commitment and dedication to service, and the handing over of the old building and keys to the land owners climaxed the occasion

10/09/2025

AWOL’s Global Leader & Godfather decorates AWOL-USA Chairman

The Global Leader and Godfather of All Works of Life (AWOL), Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr., has officially decorated and crowned the newly elected Chairman of AWOL United States of America (AWOL-USA), Mr. Mohamed Majid Kamara.
During the 10th AWOL America Achievement Awards and Appreciation ceremony held on September 6, 2025, at the Waterford Event Center in Springfield, Virginia.
Congratulating the new Chairman while addressing the distinguished guests at the event, AWOL’s Global Leader and Godfather, Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr. said AWOL focuses on societal development through initiatives in accessible healthcare, education, sustainable development, and poverty alleviation.

He further thanked and appreciated the outgoing Chairman of AWOL-USA, Mr. Mohamed Killo Banya, for positioning AWOL-USA to its peak.

He said AWOL Global, headquartered in Sierra Leone with branches in the United Kingdom, Australia, the Gambia, and the United States of America, is involved in several initiatives aimed at developing Sierra Leonean society, particularly through empowering young people.

The Godfather re-echoed that AWOL has maintained an apolitical stance while working to complement the efforts of successive governments in nation-building.

He said AWOL Global has undertaken projects, such as building a state-of-the-art primary school in Sierra Leone, to further its mission of societal development, among other initiatives.
AWOL celebrates individuals and communities making a difference through their achievements in areas such as philanthropy, business, and the arts, promoting unity and honouring excellence within the Sierra Leone diaspora and beyond.

The AWOL Awards honor diverse figures for their contributions to society and serve as a platform to recognize hard work and promote inspiration. It aims to celebrate excellence, hard work, and dedication, promoting unity and inspiration among Sierra Leoneans globally.
The event is known for honoring hardworking individuals from various sectors through awards such as the Moseray Fadika Humanitarian Award, Sierra Leone Thriving Local Business of the Year, and Sierra Leonean Actor/Actress of the Year.
The event serves as a testament to perseverance, compassion, and collective achievement, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and unity among attendees.
Beyond the awards themselves, the ceremony is an opportunity to share stories of inspiration and acknowledge the power of collective achievement within the diaspora.

10/09/2025

ATTACKED ON BO & KENEMA CITIES
…SIX HARDCORE CRIMINALS ARRESTED

BY ALIE BADARA IN BO

In a remarkable demonstration of effective law enforcement, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) successfully conducted a covert operation that apprehended six armed robbers responsible for violent attacks in the twin cities of Bo and Kenema.
Demonstrating a commitment to justice and community safety, the SLP under the leadership of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Fayia Sellu executed a flawless collaborative strategy that has brought criminals to justice and restored peace to the affected regions.
The series of brutal attacks that targeted NASSIT Regional Manager John Lamina in Bo and the tragic murder of Reverend Father Augustine Amadu in Kenema had thrown the communities into a state of fear and uncertainty.
In response, IGP Sellu called for an immediate and coordinated effort between the Regional Police Commanders of Bo and Kenema to design an effective plan to track down those responsible for these heinous acts.
Assistant Inspector General of Police South, AIG Brima Kanneh, updated the press on the successful outcome of the joint operations, confirming that all six robbers had been apprehended in a well-coordinated effort that spanned across police jurisdictions.

The suspects had conducted a spree of attacks, first in Bo, where they targeted several homes before moving to Kenema.
Central to the success of these operations were Detective Police Corporal Williams S.M. and Detective Sergeant Mohamed Ahmed Lahai, affectionately known as State Counsel.
Their leadership and investigative expertise within the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) at the Bo West Regional Office showcased the competence and modern skills required in contemporary policing.
The police investigation revealed critical insights through voluntary confessions made by the arrested suspects. Gbessay Swaray (alias success), John Bangalie (alias Boika), Foday Sallu, and Martin Sallu.
While the names of the remaining fugitives have been withheld to avoid compromising ongoing investigations, the confessions provided valuable information about the group's operations and motivations.
During his statement to the police, John Bangalie identified Martin Sallu as the group's strategist, orchestrating their criminal activities, including the management and sale of stolen goods.
Furthermore, Bangalie implicated Swaray in the murder of Father Amadu, establishing a direct link between the group's violent activities and their victims.
The harrowing events of August 28 and 29, 2025, marked a pivotal moment for Bo and Kenema, as the communities grappled with fear and uncertainty due to the orchestrated attacks.
The strong public outcry has emphasized the necessity for the police force to prioritize the monitoring of potential criminals crossing checkpoints, rather than solely focusing on drug related issues.
Community leaders, such as Haja Watta Kemokai from Bo, have expressed optimism about the future of policing in the region.
Kemokai stated her hope that the next AIG, succeeding Brima Kanneh, will prioritize public safety and diligently pursue hardcore criminals that threaten the peace of the community.
Overwhelmed by the professionalism displayed during the joint operations, the citizens have applauded the SLP for their effective response to crime and their commitment to community safety.
The success of this collaborative effort reaffirms the importance of unity and resource allocation in tackling crime head on.
As the Sierra Leonean public calls on the government to strengthen and empower the SLP, the need for greater support in law enforcement has never been clearer.
The successful outcome of these operations serves as a beacon of hope for the future, signaling that, united, communities and law enforcement can work collaboratively to combat violence and restore peace.
With a renewed focus on public safety, the Residents of Bo and Kenema can look forward to a more secure and harmonious environment.

10/09/2025

The Vanishing Canopy:
Sierra Leone’s Forests at a Crossroads

By Mohamed Ismail Kamara
Executive Director
Stichting EcoProbe Africa
The Netherlands
September 2025
I have never been to Kabala, but people often tell me it was once a cold, green town, surrounded by thick forests. From Kabala to Pujehun to Port Loko, vast canopies once blanketed the land. Today, almost all of that has vanished. The greed of some Sierra Leoneans, coupled with corruption among government officials and the influx of Chinese timber businesses, has fueled this destruction. Much of this timber feeds the ever-growing demand in China.

The consequences have been brutal. Entire towns and villages that were once bordered by lush forests now sit in open, barren fields. As I often say: cutting trees today is stealing from our children’s plates tomorrow.
Sierra Leone faces a difficult balancing act,pursuing economic development while trying to protect its fragile environment. Our forests, once symbols of natural wealth and cultural heritage, are disappearing at an alarming rate. By 2022, only 34.57% of our forest cover remained, with over 35% of total tree cover lost since 2000. The urgency to act has never been greater.
Forests are Sierra Leone’s lifeline. They sustain biodiversity, regulate water systems, and support millions of livelihoods. Yet rampant illegal logging, unsustainable farming, and charcoal production have caused severe degradation. The Western Area Peninsula National Park alone lost 5,600 hectares of forest between 2012 and 2024. Even the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary home to over 100 endangered chimpanzees is threatened by land grabs and encroachment. These losses are not just environmental; they erode our culture, our economy, and our future.

For many rural families, the destruction is tied to survival. Economic pressures force people into harmful practices like slash-and-burn farming and charcoal burning. According to Green Amazon News, widow Aminata Sankoh, who resorted to illegal charcoal production to provide for her seven children, exemplifies the heartbreaking struggles faced by many vulnerable families. But these short-term coping mechanisms worsen long-term poverty and environmental decline.
The impacts are devastating. Sierra Leone ranks among the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations. Deforestation exacerbates this vulnerability, leading to erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts, and soil erosion. The 2017 mudslide on Mount Sugar Loaf, which killed over 1,000 people, was directly linked to deforestation and unchecked urban expansion. In the Gola Rainforest shared with Liberia and home to over 300 bird species, endangered pygmy hippos, and forest elephants illegal logging and land seizures are shrinking ecosystems, reducing biodiversity, and weakening resilience against climate shocks.
The economic costs are equally severe. The World Bank warns that climate impacts could slash Sierra Leone’s GDP by 9–10% by 2050, pushing an additional 600,000 people into poverty. Deforestation also limits our ability to tap into carbon credit markets, like the Gola Rainforest carbon project, which could generate sustainable income for local communities.
Yet there is hope. Across the country, community-led initiatives, policy reforms, and international partnerships are making a difference. In Bo and Moyamba Districts, for example, partnerships between the FAO and Njala University have empowered villagers to manage forests sustainably. Beekeeping, tree nurseries, and climate-smart agriculture have not only improved incomes but also helped restore forest cover. Quoting from the UN-REDD Programme, one farmer, Mohammed Kamara, proudly said: “Our forest is thicker, greener... we see more wildlife returning.”
The government is also taking action. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has launched the Protect Sierra Leone program, focusing on biodiversity conservation, community forests, and affordable alternatives to charcoal. President Julius Maada Bio’s task force on illegal logging, along with plans for the first comprehensive forest inventory since 1975, are promising steps toward accountability and reform.
Regional collaboration adds another layer of optimism. The GOLA-REAP initiative, a partnership with Liberia, aims to transform the Gola Rainforest into a transboundary peace park, linking conservation with regional stability.
To secure our future, we must prioritize green finance. Sierra Leone will need an estimated $39 billion by 2050 to fund its green transition. Capacity-building workshops led by the UN Economic Commission for Africa are already helping stakeholders understand carbon markets, green bonds, and debt-for-nature swaps—but these efforts must be scaled up urgently.
Sierra Leone stands at a crossroads. We must choose between short-term exploitation and long-term stewardship. This requires stronger enforcement against illegal logging and corruption, investment in clean energy to reduce reliance on charcoal, and the creation of green jobs in agroforestry and eco-tourism. Environmental education should be integrated into schools and amplified through the media to foster a culture of conservation.
As Executive Director of EcoProbe Africa, I have witnessed the devastating effects of deforestation firsthand. The sight of trucks loaded with timber speeding toward the ports, the sound of power saws buzzing through what used to be thriving forests these moments sink my heart. Many have grown wealthy from this theft, but the cost to our nation is immeasurable.
Yet, even in this crisis, I have also seen hope. I have witnessed the resilience of communities fighting to protect their forests and the determination of young people demanding change. Many environmental groups have emerged, and this is a positive step toward putting pressure on the government to reinstate the ban on timber harvesting. These efforts remind us that a sustainable future is possible if we act now. The forest can regenerate .I have no doubt about it,but what remains must be protected. A strong step forward would be for the government to reimpose the ban.
Our forests are not just natural resources; they are our legacy. It is our collective responsibility to protect them, for ourselves and for generations yet unborn
About the Author
Mohamed Ismail Kamara is the Executive Director of Stichting EcoProbe Africa, a Netherlands-based organization raising awareness about environmental degradation, climate change, health, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Contact: [email protected].

10/09/2025

Support Developing Nations-Not as Charity but Justice and Solidarity
…Rev. Father Peter Konteh
The Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, Rev. Father Peter Konteh has called on Developed Nations (WEST) to support Developing Nations not just as charity but as justice and solidarity.

Father Konteh was speaking in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which remind us of a simple but profound truth:
‘’We are all connected. Developed countries have a responsibility to support Developing nations—not as charity, but as justice and solidarity’’.
The Catholic Priest said Africa’s natural resources, human talents, and energy have long contributed to the prosperity of wealthier nations. Our minerals, our people, and even our brightest minds are often used to build other economies, while our own communities continue to struggle.
‘’Achieving the SDGs, we must insist on fairness. Development cannot be one-sided. True progress means ensuring that no one is left behind, that every nation has the opportunity to flourish, and that humanity moves forward together,’’ he said.
The outspoken Rev. Father said solidarity is not optional—it is our shared duty as one human family.
💡 Accountability in Development 💡
Yes, developed countries have a duty of solidarity to support developing nations—but we in Africa also carry a serious responsibility. Every fund, every donation, every resource entrusted to us must be used transparently and effectively for the benefit of those in greatest need.
Too often, hesitation from donor nations comes from doubts about accountability. If resources are mismanaged, the very people who should be lifted up remain trapped in poverty.
He said true development is not just about receiving help—it is about stewardship, responsibility, and building trust.
‘’When we use resources well, we empower our people to stand on their own, with dignity and self-reliance’’.
🤝 Solidarity and accountability must go hand in hand—for only then will development be sustainable and just.
Rev. Father Peter Konteh is currently in Vienna attending the Green Peak Festival 2025.
Speaking from the festival he wrote this on his facebook wall:
‘’It was a true blessing to connect with my dear friends Waris Dirie, Founder of the Desert Flower Foundation, and Walter, whose tireless commitment continues to inspire hope and action.
Together, we stand for climate responsibility, human dignity, and a better future for all. 💚🌱
.

10/09/2025

E.B.K. Trophy Children’s Foundation Donates Learning Materials To Pupils In Bombali District

The Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma Trophy Children’s Foundation has on today, Thursday, 4th September 2025, donated school learning materials to school-going children in Bombali District ahead of the reopening of schools for the 2025/2026 academic year.

The donation ceremony was held in Makeni City in the presence of parents, pupils, and school administrators from across Bombali District.

Presenting the items on behalf of Hon. Chericoco, Chief Sponsor and Initiator of the Foundation, Hon. Mohamed Papa Bangura, representing Bombali District, explained the rationale behind the continued support. He emphasized that Hon. Chericoco is a firm believer in education, one who understands its value and recognizes the burden on parents during these challenging economic times. Providing these materials, he said, is part of Hon. Chericoco’s commitment to easing that burden and empowering the next generation.

Mohamed Milton Koroma, Coordinator of the EBK Trophy Children’s Foundation in Bombali, reiterated Hon. Chericoco’s consistent support to less privileged children over the years. He described him as a “silent doer” who has been running this program with dedication for a long time.

Parents and beneficiaries also expressed their gratitude. Mrs. Aminata Turay, a single mother of three and a petty trader, described the donation as “a sigh of relief,” noting how worried she had been about affording school supplies. She offered heartfelt prayers for Hon. Chericoco.

Kadiatu Koroma, one of the beneficiaries, thanked Hon. Chericoco and promised to use the items wisely while working hard to excel in her studies.

The ceremony once again highlighted the Foundation’s continued commitment to education and its role in supporting vulnerable families in Bombali District.

10/09/2025

FREE QUALITY EDUCATION IN COMA

37,000 TEACHERS DOWNTOOLS NATIONWIDE

The Free Quality Education programme under President Julius Maada Bio has been described by educational stakeholders as being “in coma,” with fears that it may collapse completely if urgent measures are not taken.
The development follows a nationwide strike action declared by the Sierra Leone Teachers Union (SLTU), affecting more than 37,000 teachers across the country. Stakeholders argue that years of neglect, delays in subsidies, lack of learning materials, and poor classroom conditions have turned the once-celebrated initiative into what some now call a “Damaged Education Programme.”
“Enough is Enough” – Teachers Say
In a strongly worded statement, the National Council of Head Teachers (NaCOHT) instructed all school heads to fully comply with the SLTU directive, ordering the closure of school doors from today, Monday, September 8, 2025, until further notice.
“Ensure all teachers and staff members comply with the strike notice. Keep all school doors closed until the SLTU provides further instructions. United we stand, divided we fall,” the Council’s circular read.
In a separate letter addressed to the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, the SLTU recalled its earlier suspended strike notice of November 25, 2024, and accused the government of failing to resolve long-standing concerns. The Union said it had been left with no option but to lift the suspension and resume strike action.
The letter outlined six key demands:
1. Immediate payment of second and third term subsidies for 2024/2025 and first term subsidies for 2025/2026.
2. Regular and prompt payment of school fees subsidies at the start of every term.
3. Correction of anomalies including non-payment and under-payment of subsidies.
4. Review of the subsidy amount per pupil to reflect current economic and inflationary realities.
5. Clarification and funding support for schools “approved” by government but left without financial assistance.
6. Resumption of the supply of teaching and learning materials, absent for the past three years.
Uncertain Days Ahead
The strike action marks one of the most significant challenges yet to the government’s flagship education programme. Stakeholders warn that unless government takes immediate corrective steps, the FQE risks losing public confidence.
“The coming days will be a test case for the government to prove whether it is truly committed to Free Quality Education, or whether it will allow the programme to die a natural death,” one education leader remarked.

10/09/2025

U$25,000 In Limbo
…Five Relocated
By Fatima Kpaka

Five accused persons; Mariatu Bangura, Alhassan Sankoh, Katimu Sillah, Noah Koroma and Fatmata Sillah were on Monday 8th September 2025 relocated to the Correctional Holden Centre by Magistrate John Manso Fornah of Pademba Road Court No.2 for allegedly stealing the sum of $ 25,000 United State Dollars from their boss Zahra Khadar.
The accused persons made their first appearance in Court and were arraigned on three count charges of Conspiracy contrary to law, Larceny by Servant contrary to Section 17 (1) (a) of the Larceny Act 1916 and Accessory after the fact contrary to Section 35 of the Larceny Act 1916.
According to the particulars of offence on Tuesday 26th August 2025 at 8 Author Drive First Bango Farm Goderich in the Western Area in Freetown conspired together with other person’s unknown to commit a felony to wit Larceny by Servant
It further alleged on count two that the accused persons on the same date and place being a servant employed by the said Zahra Khadar stole the sum of twenty-five thousand United State Dollars, property of Zahra Khadar
Whiles count three added that on the same date and place 2nd and 4th accused persons knowing fully well that Mariatu Bangura alias Sampa and Alhassan Sankoh had stolen twenty-five thousand United States Dollars thereafter maintained and assisted the said Mariatu Bangura and Alhassan Sankoh to steal the said property belonging to Zahra Khadar
All accused persons denied the allegations by pleading not guilty.
At this juncture, Police Prosecutor Deputy Superintendent of Police Sorie Conteh pleaded with the bench for a short adjournment to have proper conference with his witnesses.
The Defense counsel for the accused persons M.Y. Conteh Esq., applied for bail on their behalf stating that they are all Sierra Leoneans resident within the jurisdiction with reliable sureties who are willing and ready to stand in recognizance for and on behalf of all the accused persons, citing Section 79 (3)of the Criminal Procedure Act No.32 of 1965.
Having listened to the bail application made thus, the bench however refused bail to all accused persons due to the seriousness of the offence and adjourned same to the 16th September 2025.

06/09/2025

WOME In Collaboration with NMJD Launched Report Title “FROM EXCLUSION TO CO-OWNERSHIP’’
By Mohamed Konneh

With support from the Kimberley Process Civil Society Coalition, Women On Mining and Extractives (WOME) in collaboration the Network Movement for Justice and Development (NMJD) on Tuesday 2nd August 2025 launched a report titled From Exclusion to Co-ownership- addressing the structural Barriers to citizens benefit from Sierra Leone’s Natural Resources.
The launch was held at the Christian Health Association of Sierra Leone (CHASL) Hall, CCSL Compound, 4b Kingharman Road, Freetown.
The study was made possible through the collaboration of several partner institutions whose guidance and support were instrumental throughout the process
The public launch is part of a new research on the feasibility of a co-ownership model in Sierra Leone’s mining sector. The report examines how government, communities and companies can jointly hold equity in mining ventures to promote fairer benefit-sharing.
Giving an overview of the launch the Executive Director of NMJD, Abu Brima said drawing on extensive consultations, focus group discussions and key informant interviews with government institutions, civil society, mining companies and community stakeholders, the study provides evidence-based recommendations on how co-ownership can strengthen transparency, accountability, and equitable resource governance.
Mr. Brima noted that the current mining governance model in Sierra Leone, while largely evolving remains heavily fragmented and insufficiently responsive to the needs and aspiration of communities.
‘Despite formal structures such as CDF and recent institutional innovations like the SLMMDMC communities continue to face systematic exclusion from decision making and benefit-sharing processes. This has fueled distrust, weakened public oversight and hindered the realization of inclusive long-term development from the country’s mineral wealth,’’ he said.
In his statement Edward Koroma of TISL said Sierra Leone started mining dated back 1930, and yet communities continue to wallop in poverty.
‘This is the status quo while mining communities do not play co-ownership when it comes to mining resources. Citizens need not to relent on the campaign for co-ownership while ensuring TISL supportive role in the campaign.
Mohamed Baimba Koroma, National Coordinator, SLEITI said the report is a call to action and that it will serve the test of time.
He said co-ownership could be a mining solution and this could help in raising the standard of living conditions of host communities.
‘Co-ownership concept prompt the public to rethink but it requires government to initiate legal reforms in the sector. SLEITI believes in the empowerment of communities and let me thank WOME and NMJD for putting together this a report, he said.
Dr. David Koroma, representing the Sierra Leone Chamber of Mines thanked and appreciated WOME and NMJD for the invite.
He said the chamber since it was launched remains a unified voice in the sector and that the chamber of mines contributes not only to the country but the host communities as well.
However the chamber believes community interest are now changing and this derive through education, awareness raising and community benefits.

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