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23/10/2025

Police Dismiss Rumors of Mine Collapse in Kono

The Sierra Leone Police have dismissed reports of a mine collapse in Kumao Town, Nimikoro Chiefdom, Kono District, which allegedly trapped about 100 youths underground. On October 21, 2025, officers from the Motema Police Division visited the site to investigate the claims but found no evidence of anyone being trapped in the abandoned mining tunnels.

After thorough engagements with the Gold Lion Mining Company and local authorities, police confirmed that no missing persons had been reported and that the community remained calm and peaceful. However, the police recommended that the company strengthen its safety measures and establish a standby rescue team to respond promptly to any future incidents. Company representatives, including the HR and PRO, along with some community leaders, have been asked to provide formal statements at the police station.

The Motema Police Division assured that monitoring of the site will continue to ensure public safety. Their investigation concludes that the reported mine collapse was a false alarm, with normalcy fully maintained across the area.

© Ministry of Information and Civic Education

23/10/2025

Sierra Leone Showcases Leadership at Angola International Mining Conference 2025

Sierra Leone made a strong impression at the Angola International Mining Conference 2025 (AIMC) in Luanda, under the theme “Celebrating 50 Years of Independence: The Future of Mining in Angola Starts Here.” The Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Hon. Julius Daniel Mattai, led a high-level delegation from the National Minerals Agency, including Dr. Kelvin Anderson (Deputy Director-General), Mohamed Bah (Director, DPMT), and Salieu Bah (PMT Manager). Serving as Guest Minister and Chairman of the African Diamond Producers Association (ADPA), Minister Mattai delivered an inspiring address that celebrated African unity and progress in the mineral sector, conveying warm greetings from President Julius Maada Bio and the people of Sierra Leone.

During the conference, Minister Mattai and his Angolan counterpart, Diamantino Azevedo, toured AIMC’s world-class exhibition, exploring cutting-edge mining technologies and engaging with key industry stakeholders. The Sierra Leone delegation networked with global operators, investors, and policymakers, reinforcing partnerships aimed at promoting sustainable mining and greater African participation in the value chain. Minister Mattai underscored Africa’s collective responsibility to shift from raw material exports toward value addition, industrialization, and inclusive economic growth driven by transparency and innovation.

Reflecting on the lessons from AIMC 2025, the Ministry highlighted three key priorities as Sierra Leone prepares for its own Mining Week in April 2026: breaking barriers through bold reforms, strengthening regional collaboration, and championing transparent, ethical governance. Minister Mattai’s message captured the spirit of continental ambition, declaring: “Angola’s moment is now. Africa’s moment is now. Together, let us make history.”

©️ MMMR and NMA Communications Team

23/10/2025

Three Labourers Remanded for Riotous Conduct in Wellington Incident

By Alimatu Jalloh

Sierra Leone – October 22, 2025: Three labourers, Abass Sesay, Abdulai Sesay, and Foday Kamara, were remanded in custody on Tuesday after making their first appearance before Magistrate John Manso Fornah at Pademba Road Court No. 2 in Freetown. The trio faces five counts, including wounding, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, malicious damage, throwing missiles, and possession of offensive weapons, all in violation of the Public Order Act No. 46 of 1965.
The charges stem from an incident that occurred on October 14, 2025, at Koya Town, Wellington, where the defendants allegedly attacked Abdul Fattah Kamara, a worker at Water Quay. According to the prosecution, the men maliciously wounded Kamara, assaulted him, and caused damage to his property—including a Toyota Camry (registration AQF 181), zinc sheets, and other items—amounting to a total value of Le10,750.

The prosecution further alleged that the defendants threw missiles at Kamara’s compound and were found in possession of offensive weapons without lawful authority or reasonable excuse.
During the proceedings, Deputy Superintendent of Police Sorie Conteh led the first prosecution witness, Abdul Fattah Kamara, who identified all three defendants. Kamara recounted that on the night of October 13, the accused, along with others not before the court, stormed his residence armed with sticks and weapons. He testified that Abass Sesay wielded a stick, while Abdulai and Foday Kamara carried cutlasses. Foday Kamara allegedly splashed pepper water into Kamara’s eyes, rendering him helpless as the group assaulted him.
Following the testimony, the prosecution requested a short adjournment, which was granted. Defense counsel A.B. Marrah applied for bail on behalf of the accused, but Magistrate Fornah denied the application and ordered the defendants to be remanded at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown.
The matter has been adjourned to October 27, 2025, for further hearing.

23/10/2025

SLFA President Slams Stadium Delays, Cites Soaring Costs

By Sallieu S. Kanu

Sierra Leone – October 2025: President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Babadi Kamara, has issued a strong appeal to the Chinese government and its embassy in Freetown to expedite the rehabilitation of the National Stadium, citing mounting economic and sporting challenges caused by the prolonged delay.
The stadium, which was closed for renovation in February 2022, was initially scheduled for completion in 2024. However, the ongoing refurbishment—funded entirely by the Chinese government at an estimated cost of $40 million—has stretched beyond expectations, prompting concerns from football authorities and fans alike.
“We are calling on the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone that the National Stadium refurbishment has taken so long, and it is becoming unbearable,” Kamara stated. He emphasized that hosting international matches in neighboring Liberia has placed a significant financial strain on the government, costing no less than $300,000 per game. “This is very unfair, and it’s even costing us the required home support,” he added.
Kamara stressed that the stadium is crucial for Sierra Leone’s qualification hopes for major tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup. “Taking three to four years to refurbish a stadium is too long. People build brand new stadiums in five years,” he said.
Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh announced in May that the rehabilitation is on track to be completed within 18 to 20 months, following a revised $50 million grant from China aimed at modernizing the stadium and enhancing the country’s sports infrastructure.
Dr. Sengeh outlined a three-phase approach to the project:
Phase One: Renovation of hostels and construction of a perimeter fence. The hostels—comprising 55 single rooms and 45 double rooms—are reportedly 90% complete, with furniture already delivered. The perimeter fence is expected to be finalized by December 2025.
Phase Two: Rehabilitation of the swimming pool facilities, including a full men’s pool and a children’s pool. Contractors are expected to submit designs and financial proposals for additional diving facilities within a month, with a projected completion time of 12 months.
Phase Three: Overhaul of the main bowl seating. Originally designed to hold 35,000 spectators without seats, the stadium will now accommodate 23,000 with chairs, following safety and engineering assessments. Seating installation, provided by China Aid, is scheduled to begin in October 2025 and will take approximately 14 months.
Dr. Sengeh acknowledged delays due to safety concerns, financial considerations, and design modifications but reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency, teamwork, and timely delivery of the project.
The National Stadium, opened in 1979 with a capacity of 25,000, remains the only venue in Sierra Leone capable of hosting international football matches. Its completion is seen as vital to the future of the national team, the Leone Stars, and the broader development of sports in the country.
Sierra Leone’s reliance on a single FIFA-certified stadium, currently the National Stadium in Freetown, poses significant logistical, financial, and developmental challenges for the country’s football ecosystem.

Only one venue for international matches means Sierra Leone cannot host multiple events simultaneously or rotate fixtures across regions.
The National Stadium’s closure for renovation since 2022, has forced the national team to play home matches abroad, notably in Liberia, costing the government approximately $300,000 per match.
Other stadiums in Bo, Port Loko, and Freetown have received artificial turf upgrades through FIFA-funded projects, but none meet full FIFA certification standards for international matches.
This limits opportunities for regional development and decentralization of football activities.
The lack of alternative certified venues increases operational costs for hosting matches, training camps, and tournaments.

It also affects ticket revenue and local business opportunities, as fans cannot attend home games in-country.
A single certified stadium restricts Sierra Leone’s ability to host major CAF or FIFA tournaments, youth competitions, or club-level continental fixtures. This hampers the country’s ambition to become a regional football hub, despite growing talent and interest. With limited access to top-tier facilities, grassroots and youth programs suffer from inadequate exposure to professional environments.
It also affects fan engagement, especially in provinces where football is a key cultural activity.
Sierra Leone’s dependence on one FIFA-certified stadium creates a bottleneck for national football development, international hosting potential, and economic growth. Expanding certified infrastructure across regions would not only ease logistical burdens but also unlock broader opportunities for talent, tourism, and national pride.

23/10/2025

Sierra Leone’s Starboy Kamara Earns CAF Nod

By Desmond Tunde Coker

Sierra Leone – October 22, 2025: Former Sierra Leone U20 captain Momoh Kamara has been nominated for the prestigious Young Player of the Year award at the upcoming 2025 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards, marking a proud moment for the nation’s football community.
Kamara, currently on loan to Major League Soccer side Minnesota United II from Sierra Leonean club Mattia FC, has been making waves in the United States. His performances have drawn attention across MLS circles, with growing speculation that he may soon be promoted to Minnesota’s first team.
The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) celebrated the nomination in a statement released by its media department, describing Kamara’s recognition as a “well-deserved” honor. “Your talent, dedication, and consistency continue to shine brightly, putting Sierra Leone on the continental football map,” the statement read.
Kamara’s nomination follows an exceptional showing at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where he scored a stunning hat-trick against hosts Egypt and delivered commanding midfield performances across four matches. His efforts earned him both the Player of the Group Stage and Top Scorer accolades, with four goals to his name.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Kamara has become a symbol of hope and inspiration for young athletes in Sierra Leone. “He’s not just our leader on the field,” said teammate Alpha Turay. “He’s a role model for the entire country.”
As Sierra Leone reflects on its historic U20 AFCON campaign, Kamara’s rise stands as a testament to the nation’s growing presence in African football. His journey from local talent to international recognition continues to inspire a new generation of players and fans alike.

23/10/2025

Police: Kush Seizure Was Accounted For

By George M.O. Williams

Sierra Leone – October 21, 2025: The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has firmly refuted recent social media claims alleging that a container filled with the synthetic drug Kush went missing at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay in Freetown. In a press statement issued on Tuesday, October 21, the SLP described the reports as false, misleading, and unpatriotic, asserting that they were intended to tarnish the country’s image and reputation.
According to the statement, the alleged container—number TCNU 1723946, bearing the inscription Triton International—was intercepted on May 13, 2025, by the Combined Maritime Control Unit (CMCU) of the SEACOP Project. The container, which originated from Southampton, United Kingdom, was found to contain seventeen 50kg bags of Kush and ninety-one bottles of precursor chemicals.
The SLP clarified that a full physical examination of the container was conducted to identify and isolate all items of security interest. The contraband was duly recorded by the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU), while other personal effects were stored separately. The seized items were then sealed and placed under the custody of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbour Authority (SLPHA) for safekeeping.
Following the seizure, the Executive Director of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) obtained the necessary legal order and submitted it to the TOCU Management Board. A destruction exercise was subsequently carried out on July 31, 2025, at the TOCU Headquarters in Hastings, involving the intercepted drugs, including those from the referenced container.
The destruction process was conducted in the presence of media representatives, security officials, and other stakeholders. A verification exercise was undertaken to confirm the type and quantity of the drugs, and an After-Destruction Report was prepared and submitted to the TOCU Management Board and the Security Sector Communications Unit.
The SLP emphasized the importance of verifying information before publication and urged the public to rely on credible sources. “We urge anyone who has credible evidence confirming that a Kush-filled container has disappeared at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay to present such evidence to the Sierra Leone Police,” the statement concluded.

23/10/2025

Sierra Leone to Host One Nation Reggae Festival

By Ibrahim S. Bangura

Sierra Leone – October 22, 2025: The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has announced the launch of the One Nation Reggae Festival, a six-day celebration of music, heritage, and unity, scheduled to take place from October 25 to 30, 2025. The announcement was made by Minister Nabeela Farida Tunis during a press briefing held at the ministry’s headquarters in Freetown.
The festival, which aims to elevate Sierra Leone’s cultural profile on the global stage, will feature performances by renowned Jamaican reggae icons including Sizzla Kalonji and Christopher Martin. Other international acts include Jah Thunder (Jamaica), Didier Awadi (Senegal), and Arkane, alongside a vibrant lineup of Sierra Leonean artists such as Star Zee, Afrimaroon, Liana, Ms Julie, and RAS Mo.
“This festival will bridge the cultural chasms between Africa and the Caribbean, inviting diaspora communities to come home and partake in a vibrant tapestry of music, heritage, and investment opportunities,” Minister Tunis stated. She emphasized the event’s role in cultural reclamation and economic empowerment, calling it a reaffirmation of Sierra Leone’s place on the global cultural map.
The festival will also spotlight emerging local talents, with dedicated platforms like the Reggae Queens stage for female artists and performances by live musicians and DJs including Rasta Unity, Zare Demus, and Jessie I from Babylon Burning PBS.
Beyond music, the One Nation Reggae Festival will offer a rich cultural experience. Highlights include the Freedom Tour on October 26, which will take participants to historic sites such as Fourah Bay College and national museums. Additional activities will include heritage tours, cultural exchanges, and beachside performances at Sugar Land Beach and The Family Kingdom Resort.
Minister Tunis, who was recently named Africa’s Best Minister of Tourism at the AKWAABA 2025 awards in Lagos, Nigeria, has been instrumental in revitalizing Sierra Leone’s tourism sector. Her leadership has seen the launch of initiatives like the Year of Ecotourism 2025, drawing international attention to the country’s natural and cultural assets.
“This is not just about international stars,” she said. “It’s about our people—the young guitarist from Bo, the reggae singer from Makeni, the drummer from Freetown. It is their stage, their time, and their voice.”
The festival comes at a time when Sierra Leone continues to recover from past challenges, including the civil war and the Ebola outbreak. It is envisioned as a symbol of resilience and renewal, using music as a tool to foster unity and pride.
As Bob Marley once sang, “One love, one heart, let’s get together and feel alright”—a message Sierra Leone is ready to embrace through the One Nation Reggae Festival.

23/10/2025

Legal Aid Board Secures Justice and Repatriation for Burkinabe Sailor in Landmark Case

By Sallieu S. Kanu

Sierra Leone – October 2025: In a compelling demonstration of justice and compassion, the Legal Aid Board of Sierra Leone has successfully secured the release and repatriation of Venicious, a sailor from Burkina Faso, who was wrongfully incarcerated for over a year.
Venicious’s ordeal began in September 2024 when he disembarked from his stranded boat at Bonthe Island to purchase ci******es. His brief walk turned into a nightmare after he was arrested by the Sierra Leone Police and charged with “Loitering with Intent”—a charge he neither understood nor intended to commit. He was remanded in custody following an appearance before Magistrate Momoh Lansana and spent nearly twelve months in detention, during which his health deteriorated significantly.

The turning point came when the Director of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, Joseph Senesie, flagged Venicious’s case during a routine inmate review at the Freetown Male Correctional Centre. He promptly alerted the Executive Director of the Legal Aid Board, Ms. Fatmata Claire Carlton-Hanciles, who escalated the matter to Chief Justice Komba Kamanda. In response, the Chief Justice assigned Honourable Justice Jamestina King to preside over the case and notified the Director of Public Prosecutions, who submitted a ‘no case’ against the accused.
Given the international dimension of the case, the Legal Aid Board contacted the Burkinabe Consulate to verify Venicious’s nationality. With confirmation secured, Ms. Carlton-Hanciles assigned Legal Aid Board Manager, Counsel Cecilia Tucker Esq, to file a writ of Habeas Corpus, challenging the legality of Venicious’s detention and advocating for his release on health grounds.

On October 14, 2025, Justice Jamestina King ruled in favor of discharge, citing medical grounds. The decision was supported by submissions from both State Counsel Aruna Jalloh Esq and Counsel Tucker. The ruling, witnessed by Mr. Sheku Dumbuya, representative of the Burkinabe Consul, included an order for safe repatriation within seven days and mandated the Consulate to report the outcome to the Chief Justice, Legal Aid Board, and Director of Public Prosecutions.
Ms. Carlton-Hanciles personally addressed the sailor, reaffirming the Board’s commitment to justice and human dignity. Venicious expressed profound gratitude, his release marking not just the end of a legal battle but the beginning of a new chapter.
This case underscores the Legal Aid Board’s vital role in ensuring access to justice for all, regardless of nationality or socio-economic status. It highlights the Board’s unwavering dedication to upholding human rights and the rule of law, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s reputation as a nation committed to fairness and inclusion.

23/10/2025

Lifeline Nehemiah Projects Calls for Urgent Action After Violent Police Raid

Sierra Leone – October 22, 2025: Lifeline Nehemiah Projects (LNP), a prominent community development organisation in Sierra Leone, has issued a press release condemning a violent police operation at its compound in Kuntorloh, east of Freetown, and calling for urgent intervention.
According to the release issued on Monday, October 20, armed officers stormed the LNP compound on October 3, 2025, using tear gas, beating residents, and occupying land legally owned by the organisation. The land has long served as a safe space for schoolchildren, youth, and community members benefiting from LNP’s educational and empowerment programmes.
The incident, which coincided with a USD 990,000 development project funded by the Government of India through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and implemented by the Ministry of Social Welfare, has sparked outrage. LNP claims the project has led to human rights violations, including the alleged death of an infant, injuries to several individuals, and the arrest of at least five community members, including a breastfeeding mother.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes, including tear gas fired into a school building during a parents-and-teachers meeting and residents forced to hide indoors. Mary Williams, wife of LNP Executive Director Prince Tommy Williams, was reportedly detained for two days and forced to breastfeed her baby while in custody. Mr. Williams and Local Chief Pa Almamy Sesay II went into hiding following threats from security officials, only reuniting with their families on October 13.
Despite verified ownership documents and a court injunction protecting the land as the only open athletic field in the area—serving over 30 schools and youth groups—armed police and construction workers remain stationed on site.
“This is not just a land issue,” said Prince Tommy Williams, speaking from a secure location. “It is a violation of everything we stand for—justice, safety, and respect for human life and community. The police attacked children, mothers, and people with disabilities. Such impunity must not be allowed to continue.”
Jamie Singleton, Director of UK-based partner organisation Lifeline Network International (LNI), echoed the concerns: “A programme intended to bring hope to people with disabilities has instead brought terror to families, resulting in the death of a baby and the assault of a mother while holding her child. We cannot stand by while aid money is used to trample on human rights.”
LNP has sent multiple appeals to the Inspector General of Police, the Office of the Chief Minister, and the Office of the President, but the issue remains unresolved.
The organisation is now calling for:
• An immediate halt to all construction activities on the disputed land
• Security protection for Mr. Williams, his family, LNP staff, and beneficiaries
• Suspension of AIG East pending an independent investigation
• A transparent and impartial inquiry into the violence, death, and unlawful arrests
• Return of confiscated materials and compensation for damages
• Accountability from project funders and implementers to ensure donor resources are not used to violate human rights
For nearly three decades, Lifeline Nehemiah Projects has been a pillar of community empowerment in Sierra Leone, supporting thousands through education, vocational training, and relief efforts—including its pivotal role during the Ebola outbreak.
“This is a moment for the UNDP, the Government of India, and Sierra Leonean authorities to act,” Singleton urged. “Development must never come at the cost of human dignity, freedom, or life.”

23/10/2025

Africa Global Logistics Awards Scholarships to Students in Seaside and Moa Wharf Communities

By Alimatu Jalloh

Sierra Leone – October 15, 2025: Africa Global Logistics (AGL), in partnership with Freetown Terminal Limited (FTL), has awarded scholarships totaling NLe390,160 to 59 students from the Seaside and Moa Wharf communities in Freetown, reaffirming its commitment to education and community development through corporate social responsibility (CSR).
The scholarship ceremony, held on October 14 at the Freetown Terminal, brought together beneficiaries, community leaders, and company representatives to celebrate the initiative aimed at supporting higher education for students from some of Freetown’s most underserved areas.
Speaking at the event, AGL’s Human Resources Manager, Yvonne Elliott, emphasized the transformative power of education. “When you empower young people, you empower the future. AGL and FTL are proud to contribute meaningfully to these communities and encourage all beneficiaries to stay focused, become change-makers, and serve as ambassadors for Seaside and Moa Wharf,” she said.
The scholarship programme is part of AGL and FTL’s broader CSR strategy, which includes support for education, health, and other community development projects across Freetown.
Community leaders expressed deep appreciation for the companies’ continued support. Annas Sesay, Secretary General of the Seaside Community, praised AGL and FTL for their longstanding contributions. “Their interventions have made real differences in our communities, and we hope they continue doing more,” he said.
Abubakar Barrie from the Moa Wharf Community urged the scholarship recipients to honor the opportunity through discipline and hard work. “You are the ambassadors of your communities. Study hard and use this opportunity to bring change back home,” he advised.
Several beneficiaries also shared their gratitude. Alhassan Momoh Bangura, a student from Moa Wharf, thanked AGL for investing in their future, while Hassan K. Fofanah described the initiative as “life-changing,” noting that the communities had previously lacked access to such opportunities.
AGL’s Regional Director, Mr. Fabjan Kohan, underscored the company’s belief in education as a tool for transformation. “Investing in education is a key priority. This scholarship comes with no expectation of anything in return—it’s about giving back,” he said.
Kohan encouraged the students to remain focused and resilient. “Progress does not come overnight. It requires purpose and focus. Sometimes we fail, but make sure when you fail, you fail forward. Mistakes are great teachers,” he added, using a local metaphor: “When you’re growing up a crocodile, don’t be afraid of losing your leg—success demands courage.”
The scholarship initiative marks another milestone in AGL and FTL’s efforts to uplift vulnerable communities and foster long-term development through education.

23/10/2025

Sierra Leone to Begin Exporting High-Quality Steel Doors and Wooden Materials to Global Markets

Freetown, Sierra Leone – October 23, 2025:
Sierra Leone’s manufacturing sector is taking a bold leap onto the global stage, as the country prepares to begin exporting premium steel doors and wooden materials to major international markets including the United States, China, India, and France. The initiative represents a significant milestone in boosting local industry, creating jobs, and enhancing Sierra Leone’s global trade footprint.

The Emporium Steel Door and Wooden Company is leading this groundbreaking venture, showcasing the nation’s growing capacity for industrial innovation and quality production. Through this investment, Sierra Leone is positioning itself as a key player in the global manufacturing supply chain.

Members of the public are encouraged to visit Emporium Steel Door and Wooden Company at 4 Mile, Saline Drive, or reach their point of contact at 1 Freetown Road, Lumley. For inquiries, call +232 79 105 440.

23/10/2025

US-Based Sierra Leonean Arrested with Large Quantity of Suspected Tramadol at Rogberay Checkpoint

Kambia District, Sierra Leone – October 23, 2025:
Security personnel at the Rogberay Joint Security Checkpoint in Gbileh Chiefdom, Kambia District, have arrested a 27-year-old man, identified as Abdul Akim Bangura, with a substantial quantity of suspected Tramadol tablets. Bangura, a Sierra Leonean reportedly based in the United States but currently residing in Allen Town, Freetown, was apprehended on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, during a routine stop-and-search operation.

According to police sources, the operation forms part of ongoing efforts by the Local Unit Commander (LUC) and joint security forces to curb the trafficking of harmful substances such as Kush, Tramadol, Co***ne, and Cannabis Sativa across Sierra Leone’s borders. A search of the suspect’s belongings reportedly uncovered 1,287 cards suspected to contain 250-milligram Tramadol tablets, along with two cups filled with red tablets believed to be of the same dosage.

Bangura has been taken into police custody as investigations continue to trace the source and intended destination of the drugs. The Sierra Leone Police reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening border security and combating the smuggling of illicit drugs and contraband that endanger public health and national security.

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