The Satellite Newspaper

09/08/2026

MORE THAN A SPONSOR AS...

LEONE ROCK METAL GROUP RECEIVES INSTITUTIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD

When the Leone Rock Premier League Board presented Leone Rock Metal Group (LRMG) with the Institutional Excellence Award, it was more than a celebration of a corporate sponsor. It was recognition of a company whose investment in Sierra Leonean football has increasingly become part of a broader national development story.

For LRMG, football is not simply about the 90 minutes between kickoff and the final whistle. It is about young people finding purpose, communities finding common ground, institutions becoming stronger and Sierra Leoneans seeing greater possibilities for themselves. That philosophy has defined the company’s relationship with football over recent years and the numbers tell part of the story.

LRMG entered the 2023/24 Premier League season with an US$80,000 sponsorship commitment, helping establish what became the Leone Rock Premier League. The following season, the company increased its commitment dramatically to US$150,000, a near doubling of its previous sponsorship and, at the time, described by sports stakeholders as a landmark private-sector investment in Sierra Leone football.
The partnership subsequently continued to grow. In November 2025, LRMG signed another agreement with the Premier League Board and the Sierra Leone Football Association for the 2026 season, reported at US$180,000. But LRMG’s contribution has never stopped at writing a sponsorship cheque.

From the outset, the company supported the league with referee uniforms and kits and introduced Player of the Match and Coach awards initiatives designed to celebrate excellence while strengthening professionalism within the game. In April 2026, that commitment took another practical form when LRMG donated seven changing boards and seven sets of referee communication equipment for use across the country’s seven Premier League venues, directly supporting match officials and improving the infrastructure around the game.

It is this combination of financial commitment, institutional support and tangible infrastructure that has distinguished LRMG’s approach.
At the awards ceremony, LRMG Chief Technical Officer Salim Sillah placed the company’s football contribution within a much larger vision.
His message was clear: LRMG’s corporate social responsibility is not conceived as a collection of isolated donations. It is an intentional effort to contribute to projects capable of creating lasting value for Sierra Leoneans.

That philosophy is visible across the company’s wider community-development programme.
LRMG’s official community-development record shows substantial investment through Community Development Funds, surface-rent payments, education initiatives, youth empowerment, sports infrastructure and community facilities across its areas of operation. In 2025 alone, the company reports an annual Community Development Fund disbursement of more than NLe62.2 million, alongside surface-rent payments and other community-focused investments.
The company has also supported education through scholarships and school infrastructure, while community projects have included facilities such as the Pepel Community Centre, SLMB Primary School and Town Field development.

In August 2024, LRMG handed over a furnished community centre to residents of Romende Chiefdom a project that community stakeholders said helped bring people together after years in which divisions had prevented the community from gathering collectively. This is the context in which Sillah’s remarks at the awards ceremony resonate.

For LRMG, the responsibility of a major company operating in Sierra Leone extends beyond production and commercial performance. It includes contributing to the social infrastructure around its operations and using its resources to help create opportunities for people and communities.
The company’s football strategy reflects that same philosophy.
When LRMG renewed its Premier League sponsorship in 2024, Sillah emphasised that football transcends political, racial, gender and religious divisions, describing the sport as an opportunity for the company to contribute to national development. That belief has become increasingly visible in the company’s actions.

LRMG has supported the professionalisation of the Premier League, encouraged accountability and transparency in the management of sponsorship resources, invested in match-officiating equipment and created platforms for recognising players and coaches.

It has also taken the spirit of football into its own workforce. In 2025, the company hosted its third annual inter-site football competition, bringing together teams from its different operational sites and partners in an event centred on respect, cooperation, healthy competition and unity.

In other words, football has become both an external national investment and an internal instrument for building teamwork and community.
The Institutional Excellence Award therefore comes at a significant moment in LRMG’s journey.

The company has positioned itself not merely as an iron-ore producer, but as a long-term investor in Sierra Leone’s economic and social development. Its operations span an integrated mine-to-market system linking the Tonkolili iron-ore project with rail and port infrastructure, while its stated mission places community development and shared value alongside operational excellence.

That approach was also reflected in Sillah’s public remarks during Sierra Leone Mining Week in May 2026, where he spoke about responsible mining, value multiplication, investment, community engagement and shared prosperity.

The philosophy is consistent: extract value from Sierra Leone’s mineral resources while creating value that remains with Sierra Leone and its people.
Football is one of the most visible expressions of that commitment.
And perhaps that is why the Institutional Excellence Award carries significance beyond the trophy itself.
It recognises the belief that a company can be commercially ambitious while being socially intentional; that corporate social responsibility can move beyond one-off gestures into sustained investment; and that partnerships between government, communities, sporting institutions and the private sector can produce outcomes that benefit an entire nation. The story of LRMG and Sierra Leonean football is still unfolding.

From the US$80,000 commitment for the 2023/24 season, to US$150,000 the following season, and onward to a further expanded commitment for the 2026 league, LRMG’s trajectory has been one of increasing investment rather than retreat.
And with each investment, the company has sought to attach a broader purpose: supporting players, coaches and referees; improving the professionalism of the league; strengthening sporting infrastructure; engaging young people; and using football to unite communities.

That is the deeper meaning behind the Institutional Excellence Award.
Leone Rock Metal Group is not simply putting its name on Sierra Leonean football. It is putting resources, infrastructure and institutional commitment behind its future.

As Salim Sillah’s message at the ceremony made clear, the company’s ambition is larger than any single sponsorship, project or season.
It is about building.
Building football.
Building communities.
Building opportunities.
And ultimately, building a Sierra Leone in which the country’s natural resources translate into tangible progress for its people.

09/08/2026

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08/08/2026

AWOL’s Tribute tothe Late Alhaji Gibril Santigie Moseray Fadika - 10th year of the passing away of SUPER

It is with profound grief and a heavy heart that we continue to remember the passing of *Alhaji Gibril Santigie Moseray Fadika* (who died on Sunday 7th August, 2016), former Chairman and Godfather of AWOL, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of African Minerals Group, an exceptional statesman, philanthropist, visionary entrepreneur, and one of Sierra Leone’s most distinguished sons.

Today, Sierra Leone continues to mourn the loss of a remarkable leader whose life’s work was defined by selfless service, unwavering patriotism, and an enduring commitment to the progress of his nation. His passing leaves a void that cannot easily be filled, for men of his character, generosity, and vision are truly rare.

Alhaji Fadika was more than a successful businessman. He was a builder of dreams, a mentor to countless young people, a champion of football and youth development, a steadfast supporter of community advancement, and a man whose faith inspired compassion, humility, and generosity. He believed that true leadership meant lifting others, creating opportunities where none existed, and investing in the future of Sierra Leone.

Through his vision, dedication, and generosity, he empowered individuals, strengthened communities, and inspired hope in countless families. His influence reached far beyond boardrooms and business ventures. It was felt in the aspirations of young people, in the growth of local communities, in the development of sport, and in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to experience his kindness and guidance.

The measure of a great life is not found solely in titles held or wealth accumulated, but in the enduring impact left on humanity. By that measure, Alhaji Gibril Santigie Moseray Fadika lived an extraordinary life. His legacy is etched into the story of Sierra Leone and will continue to inspire future generations to lead with integrity, courage, generosity, and an unwavering love for country.

As we continue to renember this illustrious son of the soil, we pray that Almighty Allah, in His infinite mercy, forgives his shortcomings, accepts his countless good deeds, expands and illuminates his grave, and grants him the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus.

May Allah also comfort his beloved family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched, granting them strength and peace during this time of immense sorrow.

Though his earthly journey ended in 2016, his vision, his service, and his remarkable legacy will endure in the hearts of the people he inspired and in the nation he helped to build.

May his noble soul continues to rest in eternal peace.

Ameenah🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

*-Prof. Ezekiel K. Duramany-Lakkoh*
Secretary General- AWOL

07/08/2026

MobiCare Wins Orange Social Venture Prize 2026 as Orange Sierra Leone Champions the Next Generation of Innovators

Orange Sierra Leone has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to empowering young people through innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology, as eight outstanding finalists competed in the 7th Edition of the Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) 2026.

Held on 3 August 2026 at the Orange Digital Center in Freetown, the event brought together government representatives, development partners, entrepreneurs, innovators, students, and industry leaders to celebrate transformative ideas with the potential to address pressing social challenges and drive sustainable economic growth across Sierra Leone.

Hosted by Monica Jackson, the 2024 OSVP Tech Queen, the ceremony underscored Orange Sierra Leone’s vision of creating opportunities for young innovators to transform bold ideas into impactful solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities.

This year's competition attracted an impressive 138 applications from across the country. Following a rigorous evaluation process, 38 projects were shortlisted, with eight exceptional finalists advancing to compete for the coveted Orange Innovation Awards.

In her keynote address, Orange Sierra Leone Chief Executive Officer, Madam Aïcha Touré, reaffirmed the company's belief that innovation and technology remain powerful drivers of economic transformation.

“For seven consecutive years, Orange has invested in Sierra Leonean innovators, supporting ideas that have the potential to transform communities and improve lives,” she said. “As one of Africa’s leading telecommunications companies, we believe innovation is among the strongest drivers of economic growth. Our mission is to help young people turn their ideas into practical, scalable solutions that contribute to national development.”

Madam Touré highlighted the significant impact of the initiative since its launch in Sierra Leone in 2019. Over the years, the programme has attracted more than 1,000 applicants and provided financial and developmental support to numerous innovators. She emphasized that true innovation extends beyond creativity and requires determination, resilience, and a commitment to solving real-world challenges.

Representing the Government of Sierra Leone, Sarjoh Aziz Kamara, Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education, commended Orange Sierra Leone for complementing national efforts to promote entrepreneurship, digital innovation, and youth empowerment.

“The future of Sierra Leone depends on innovation and technology,” he noted. “Initiatives such as the Orange Social Venture Prize are helping to create jobs, nurture talent, and support the Government’s development agenda. We encourage young innovators to seize these opportunities and develop solutions that positively impact society.”

Also speaking at the event, Hannah Campbell, Chief Executive Officer of Coco Innovations Sierra Leone, praised Orange’s longstanding partnership with the country’s innovation ecosystem. She described the OSVP as more than just a competition, calling it a transformative platform that equips entrepreneurs with the confidence, visibility, and resources needed to scale their ideas and create meaningful change.

The highlight of the event was the announcement of the 2026 winners, whose innovations reflect the creativity, talent, and problem-solving potential of Sierra Leone’s youth.

Dr. Abdulai Osman Koroma, creator of MobiCare, emerged as the Grand Prize Winner, receiving NLe 200,000 for his groundbreaking digital healthcare solution. The mobile application enables users to quickly locate pharmacies where prescribed medications are available, helping patients access essential treatment more efficiently.

Speaking after receiving the award, Dr. Koroma explained that the idea was inspired by the challenges many patients face when searching for medication.

“With MobiCare, users can easily search for medicines from home and identify where they are available, reducing delays and improving access to healthcare services,” he said.

Another standout winner was Fatmata Mariama Koroma, a medical student and Founder of MiFam, who secured NLe 120,000 to further develop her agricultural innovation. Driven by her passion for farming and food security, she expressed gratitude to Orange Sierra Leone for providing a platform that empowers young entrepreneurs to transform their ambitions into impactful businesses.

As the curtain closed on the 7th Orange Social Venture Prize, one message resonated throughout the event: Sierra Leone’s future belongs to innovators. Through initiatives such as OSVP, Orange Sierra Leone continues to champion a new generation of entrepreneurs who are leveraging technology and creativity to address social challenges, create jobs, and accelerate sustainable development.

The success of this year’s finalists is a testament to Orange Sierra Leone’s enduring commitment to nurturing local talent and building an inclusive digital future, where young people are empowered to innovate, lead, and transform their communities for generations to come.




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07/08/2026

PARLIAMENT APPROVES NASSIT'S DG. AND BOARD CHAIRPERSON

Parliament on Tuesday, 4th August, 2026, unanimously approved Chernor Mamoud Jalloh as the new Director General and Md. Jenneh Jabati as the new Board Chairperson of NASSIT, ushering in a new leadership era at the Trust.

The approval followed a robust debate in the Well of Parliament, with lawmakers across party lines, emphasising NASSIT’s critical role in safeguarding the welfare of workers and pensioners in Sierra Leone.
The Speaker of Parliament, the Rt. Honourable Sengepor Solomon Thomas, emphasised the significance of NASSIT as one of the nation’s most crucial social protection institutions, acknowledging that millions of workers rely on the Trust for their future.

The Speaker underscored that NASSIT deserved a dedicated, visionary and accountable leadership, and urged the incoming Director General and Chairperson of the Board to maintain transparency, act with integrity, and guarantee the fulfillment of the Trust’s mandate without compromise.

Honourable Sahr Matthew Nyuma, Leader of Government Business, praised the outgoing Director General for his leadership, highlighting his significant contributions to making the scheme more accessible and visible to the public, and pointed out key achievements during Mr Daboh’s tenure, including the ICT transformation that had modernised service delivery, prudent decision-making and good governance that bolstered the Trust’s finances, expanded outreach, improved benefit processing times, and the efforts to extend coverage to the Informal Sector. “Mr. Daboh can now retire peacefully, appreciating his contributions to such a significant institution,” he noted.

Presenting the credentials of the new Director General, the Leader of Government Business described the appointment as a major boost for the Trust, citing Mr Chernor Jalloh’s track record in public service, policy, and institutional transformation.

Hon. Nyuma highlighted Mr Jalloh’s strong academic foundation, with degrees and professional certificates from reputable institutions locally and internationally. Mr Jalloh’s background in management, finance, and development was described as “exactly what NASSIT needs at this time” to navigate the complexities of social security administration and investment.

While applauding the progress made under the outgoing leadership, Hon Matthew Nyuma urged the incoming Director General to leverage on his professional accomplishments to consolidate and build on the existing infrastructure at NASSIT.

The Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Aaron Koroma, also expressed his concurrence, commending the exemplary work accomplished by the outgoing Director General in repositioning NASSIT and restoring public confidence.

He emphasised that the new Director General and Board Chairperson should focus on two main priorities: enhancing governance structures to ensure accountability at all levels, and making prudent investment decisions to secure the pension fund's long-term sustainability. Other speakers delivered statements of gratitude and admonition to the outgoing Director General and the incoming team.

NASSIT, We Care!

06/08/2026

QCELL UNVEILS NEW 035 NUMBER SERIES

QCell, one of Sierra Leone's leading and fastest growing telecommunications companies, has officially launched its new 035 mobile number series, marking another significant milestone in its commitment to expanding access to quality telecommunications services and delivering greater value to customers across the country.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Qcell Chief Executive Officer, Karthik Jayamani, described the introduction of the 035 number series as more than just the addition of a new range of mobile numbers.

According to him, the new series gives customers the opportunity to own memorable mobile numbers that reflect their identity while supporting Qcell's continued growth and investment in Sierra Leone's digital future.

"The introduction of the 035 series represents more than just a new number range. It provides customers with the opportunity to choose numbers that reflect their identity while ensuring we continue to meet the growing demand for mobile services across the country," Jayamani said.

He disclosed that customers will be able to reserve and purchase their preferred 035 numbers through designated Qcell channels, including selected Customer Experience Centres, authorized dealers, and digital reservation platforms.

As part of the launch promotion, he announced that every new 035 customer will receive 10 minutes of on-net voice calls, 300MB of data, and 100 SMS every month for the next six months, in addition to access to Qcell's full range of telecommunications services.

Also speaking at the event, the Head of QMoney Sierra Leone, Gabriel Mendy, described the launch of the 035 series as a major step towards expanding access to secure, reliable, and innovative mobile financial services across Sierra Leone. He noted that the launch represents an important milestone in Qcell's journey to strengthen financial inclusion and support the country's growing digital economy.

"Our mission at QMoney has always been to drive financial inclusion, empower communities, and ensure that every Sierra Leonean has the tools to participate fully in the digital economy," Mendy stated.

He added that QMoney is a leading participant in the national switch payment system of the Bank of Sierra Leone, and that the introduction of the 035 series will further increase access to digital financial services. "The launch of the 035 series is a powerful step forward in achieving our mission by bringing more people into the financial inclusion ecosystem," he said.

Mendy further explained that the new number series will create more opportunities for customers, agents, and businesses to connect seamlessly with Qcell's trusted mobile money platform, enabling transactions that are faster, safer, and more convenient.

"The 035 series represents Qcell's commitment to innovation and our determination to bridge financial gaps across Sierra Leone and beyond," he concluded.

The launch of the 035 number series underscores Qcell's continued investment in expanding telecommunications infrastructure and digital financial services, reinforcing its position as one of Sierra Leone's leading providers of innovative mobile connectivity and financial solutions.

No Hiding Place

06/08/2026

PARLIAMENT RATIFIES SLNSA'S JVA WITH CHINA

Sierra Leone has taken a decisive step towards revitalising its maritime industry following Parliament’s ratification of the Joint Venture Agreement between the Sierra Leone National Shipping Agency (SLNSA) and Zhejiang Xiehai Group Co. Ltd. of the People’s Republic of China, paving the way for the establishment of the Sierra Leone Ocean Shipping Company (SLOSCo).

The landmark parliamentary approval represents a significant milestone in the Government’s efforts to restore a national shipping carrier and strengthen Sierra Leone’s participation in regional and international maritime trade. The initiative is expected to create employment opportunities, attract foreign direct investment, enhance maritime logistics and improve the country’s competitiveness within the global shipping industry.

The joint venture forms part of the Government’s broader agenda to maximise the economic benefits of Sierra Leone’s growing import and export trade while reducing reliance on foreign shipping operators. Once operational, the Sierra Leone Ocean Shipping Company will provide the country with a national carrier capable of supporting trade facilitation, expanding shipping capacity and retaining greater value from goods transported to and from Sierra Leone.

Speaking after Parliament ratified the agreement, the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Ambassador Col. (Rtd.) Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq., described the approval as a historic achievement that signals a new chapter for Sierra Leone’s maritime sector. “This is a defining moment for our country’s maritime industry.

The establishment of the Sierra Leone Ocean Shipping Company reflects the Government’s unwavering commitment to restoring a national carrier that will strengthen international trade, create employment for our citizens, build local maritime capacity and contribute significantly to national economic growth,” he said. Minister Turay noted that the partnership between the Sierra Leone National Shipping Agency and Zhejiang Xiehai Group Co. Ltd. demonstrates Government’s commitment to forging strategic international partnerships that deliver sustainable economic benefits while supporting national development priorities.

He emphasised that the new shipping company will contribute to strengthening Sierra Leone’s maritime infrastructure, improving shipping services, facilitating more efficient movement of cargo and positioning the country to compete more effectively within the global maritime industry.

“The establishment of SLOSCo is not merely about owning ships; it is about creating opportunities for Sierra Leoneans, promoting skills development, increasing investment in the maritime sector and ensuring that our nation captures greater value from its international trade,” the Minister added.
He commended Members of Parliament for their overwhelming support for the agreement and expressed appreciation to the leadership of the Sierra Leone National Shipping Agency, Zhejiang Xiehai Group Co. Ltd. and all stakeholders whose collaboration made the initiative possible.

The establishment of the Sierra Leone Ocean Shipping Company is expected to support the Government’s Blue Economy agenda by expanding commercial shipping operations, enhancing trade connectivity, generating employment for maritime professionals and strengthening Sierra Leone’s position as an emerging maritime hub in West Africa.

With parliamentary approval now secured, Government is expected to begin implementing the joint venture agreement, marking the start of a new era for Sierra Leone’s maritime sector and reinforcing its commitment to building a resilient, competitive and globally connected shipping industry.

Credit: Comms Unit, MoTA

06/08/2026

AS PARLIAMENT ADJOURNS ITS SITTING TO AUGUST 10…

GOV’T. MAKES MAJOR CHANGES TO CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT BILL

Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, has announced that the Government has recommended the removal of the proposed amendments to Sections 85 and 87 from the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

The Bill will now focus exclusively on non-entrenched constitutional provisions, including electoral and governance reforms intended to be implemented ahead of the 2028 general elections. The proposed amendments to entrenched provisions, particularly Sections 85 and 87, will instead be addressed through a broader constitutional review process that will culminate in a national referendum.

Speaking during the ongoing parliamentary debate on the Constitutional Amendment Bill, Mr. Sesay explained that the decision was taken to ensure that the current legislation deals solely with non-entrenched constitutional provisions.

He noted that Sections 85 and 87 are entrenched clauses and, therefore, require a separate and more rigorous constitutional process before they can be amended. Under Section 108 of the Constitution, amendments to entrenched provisions must undergo strict legal procedures, including publication in the Gazette, approval by the required parliamentary majority, and endorsement through a national referendum.

According to the Attorney General, the proposed changes to the entrenched provisions will be considered as part of a wider constitutional review process, in line with the legal requirements established under the Constitution.

Mr. Sesay emphasized that the Government remains committed to pursuing constitutional reforms in accordance with the law.

He added that separating the entrenched provisions from the current Bill would help preserve the integrity of the constitutional amendment process and prevent possible procedural complications.

The announcement came as Members of Parliament continued deliberations on the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to amend selected non-entrenched provisions of the Constitution.
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The removal of the proposed amendments to Sections 85 and 87 represents a significant development in Parliament’s consideration of the Bill. It also signals the Government’s intention to address entrenched constitutional reforms through a broader consultative process and a national referendum.

The decision may also be linked to concerns and warnings raised by pressure groups, including legal bodies, that attempts to fast-track amendments to entrenched provisions through Parliament could trigger legal challenges and undermine important democratic safeguards.

06/08/2026

AS PARLIAMENT ADJOURNS ITS SITTING TO AUGUST 10…
GOV’T. MAKES MAJOR CHANGES TO CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT BILL

Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, has announced that the Government has recommended the removal of the proposed amendments to Sections 85 and 87 from the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
The Bill will now focus exclusively on non-entrenched constitutional provisions, including electoral and governance reforms intended to be implemented ahead of the 2028 general elections. The proposed amendments to entrenched provisions, particularly Sections 85 and 87, will instead be addressed through a broader constitutional review process that will culminate in a national referendum.

Speaking during the ongoing parliamentary debate on the Constitutional Amendment Bill, Mr. Sesay explained that the decision was taken to ensure that the current legislation deals solely with non-entrenched constitutional provisions.
He noted that Sections 85 and 87 are entrenched clauses and, therefore, require a separate and more rigorous constitutional process before they can be amended. Under Section 108 of the Constitution, amendments to entrenched provisions must undergo strict legal procedures, including publication in the Gazette, approval by the required parliamentary majority, and endorsement through a national referendum.
According to the Attorney General, the proposed changes to the entrenched provisions will be considered as part of a wider constitutional review process, in line with the legal requirements established under the Constitution.

Mr. Sesay emphasized that the Government remains committed to pursuing constitutional reforms in accordance with the law.
He added that separating the entrenched provisions from the current Bill would help preserve the integrity of the constitutional amendment process and prevent possible procedural complications.

The announcement came as Members of Parliament continued deliberations on the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to amend selected non-entrenched provisions of the Constitution.
The removal of the proposed amendments to Sections 85 and 87 represents a significant development in Parliament’s consideration of the Bill. It also signals the Government’s intention to address entrenched constitutional reforms through a broader consultative process and a national referendum.

The decision may also be linked to concerns and warnings raised by pressure groups, including legal bodies, that attempts to fast-track amendments to entrenched provisions through Parliament could trigger legal challenges and undermine important democratic safeguards. Sierra Leone Parliamentary Watch