The Satellite Newspaper

10/05/2026

09/05/2026

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
A.P.C.

AFTER HIGH-LEVEL MEETING WITH PRESIDENT BIO...
APC BREAKS SILENCE

The opposition All People's Congress (APC) has issued an official statement following a high-level engagement with His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio at State House on Tuesday 5th May 2026, describing the meeting as timely and necessary for national stability and democratic consolidation.

According to the party, the APC delegation was led by Acting National Chairman, Alhaji Osman Foday Yansaneh and comprised senior members of the party leadership. In its release, the APC stated that both the party and President Bio reaffirmed their commitments to the full implementation of previously agreed political frameworks. These include the 8-Point communique of the International Moral Guarantors, the Tripartite Committee's Recommendations, and the Agreement for National Unity.

The opposition noted that those agreements remain critical to restoring public trust, strengthening democratic governance, and ensuring accountability in Sierra Leone.

The APC further described the meeting as a constructive step towards deepening dialogue between the government and the opposition but stressed that future engagements must produce concrete results rather than symbolic gestures.

According to the statement, such actions should directly address the pressing concerns facing ordinary Sierra Leoneans, including governance, accountability, and national development.

The party also assured its members, supporters, and the wider public that its participation in the engagement does not weaken its role as the main opposition force.

"The APC remains steadfast in holding the government accountable while constructively contributing to nation-building," the statement concluded.

08/05/2026

COURTESY OF NEWSPAPERS FRONT PAGES IN SIERRA LEONE 8/5/2026..

07/05/2026

FOCUS ON OUR POLITICS

From Fear to Fragile Freedom: Why Sierra Leone’s Media Still Matters

The newsroom smelled of ink, sweat and defiance.
In late 1997, in the heart of Freetown, we were young, underpaid, and acutely aware that every word we printed could come at a cost. Sierra Leone was under military rule. The Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC) had overthrown the democratically elected government of President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, and fear had settled over the country like a permanent shadow.

But journalism, even then, refused to whisper.
At The Democrat, where I worked as a young reporter, we chose to confront power the only way we knew how—through the printed word. At a time of acute fuel shortages and growing public frustration, we ran a front-page editorial that pulled no punches: “AFRC S**t Hits Its Fans.”

It was bold. It was risky. And it did not go unnoticed.
The same day, soldiers stormed our office on George Street. The building, which also housed Stop Press (a gathering place for journalists, civil society voices, and political thinkers) was more than just a workplace. It was a space for ideas. That day, it became a target.
They ransacked everything. Equipment was destroyed. The newsroom was left in ruins.

Our editor, the late Pios Foray, narrowly avoided arrest and went into hiding. Our secretary, Rachel, pregnant at the time, was taken away. She later died. I was on my way to work when I heard what had happened. I never made it to the office. I went into hiding instead.
Others endured even more. I remember seeing John Foray after his detention and torture at the SSC camp in Regent. The man I saw was barely recognizable—he could not stand upright. The injuries he carried stayed with him for years until his death much later. That image has never left me.
And yet, for all its brutality, that moment did not silence us.
If anything, it hardened our resolve. Many of those who passed through that battered newsroom went on to shape Sierra Leone’s media in lasting ways. Ibrahim Babatunde Sesay continues to inform the public through the Satellite newspaper. Isaac Swen now publishes the Open Space newspaper. Abu Bakar Joe Sesay took a different path and today plays a key role in government communications at the Ministry of Information.
The message was clear then, and it still resonates now: repression did not break the press—it reshaped it.
Nearly three decades on, Sierra Leone’s media landscape has changed in ways we could scarcely have imagined. The overt violence of the past has largely receded. The repeal of the criminal libel law removed a long-standing tool of repression. Radio, television, and digital platforms have expanded the national conversation, connecting citizens at home and in the diaspora.

But progress, while real, is not absolute.
The latest World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders places Sierra Leone at 79th out of 180 countries. It is a position that reflects neither crisis nor comfort but something more fragile: uncertainty.

Globally, the report warns that press freedom has been on a steady decline for over two decades. Sierra Leone is not immune to that trend. The threats facing journalism today are less visible than in 1997, but no less consequential.
Economic vulnerability remains one of the most powerful constraints. Many media institutions operate on the margins, and journalists often work under conditions that make independence difficult to sustain. In such an environment, financial pressure can quietly shape editorial choices, eroding credibility over time.
The legal landscape also presents new concerns. The introduction of cyber laws, while intended to regulate the digital space, has created unease within the media community. There are growing fears that such laws could be used to curb dissent, particularly online, where much of today’s public debate takes place.
For women in journalism, the barriers are even higher. Alongside low pay and limited opportunities, harrassment, both in newsrooms and in the field, remains a persistent challenge. It is telling that even organizations like BBC Media Action have recently stepped in to train female journalists on how to deal with harassment. That such training is necessary speaks volumes about the conditions many women continue to navigate.

A recent case at the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation further underscores the problem. A female staff member was reportedly harassed and mistreated, prompting intervention from the Independent Media Commission, which ruled that she be reinstated and compensated. Whether that ruling has been fully implemented remains uncertain—highlighting a deeper issue: the gap between policy and practice.
These are not isolated concerns. They point to a broader reality that press freedom is no longer primarily threatened by force, but by fragility. Fragile institutions. Fragile protections. Fragile economic foundations.

This matters now more than ever.
Sierra Leone’s democracy, while enduring, remains delicate. As the country moves toward the 2028 elections, the role of the media becomes even more critical. Elections are not just about ballots; they are about information, accountability, and trust.
A weakened media cannot effectively play that role.
If journalists are constrained by financial pressure, legal ambiguity, or personal risk, the quality of public discourse suffers. And when public discourse suffers, democracy itself begins to erode, often quietly and without immediate notice.

Sierra Leone has come a long way from the days when soldiers could walk into a newsroom and shut it down with impunity. That progress should be recognized.
But history also offers a warning.

The story of George Street is not just about what happened. It is about what can happen when the space for truth is allowed to shrink. The scars of that era, carried by those who survived it, are a reminder that press freedom is never permanently secured. It must be protected, reinforced, and, when necessary, defended.The drop in the Press Freedom Index is not a verdickt but it is a signal.

The task ahead is clear. Strengthen institutions. Protect journalists, especially the most vulnerable. Ensure that laws safeguard, rather than suppress. And create an environment where speaking truth to power is not an act of courage, but a professional norm.
Because in the end, the true measure of Sierra Leone’s democracy will not be found in rankings or reforms alone. It will be seen in whether its media can operate freely, fearlessly, and fairly, especially when it matters most.

And with 2028 on the horizon, it will matter more than ever.

_Tejan Lamboi is Journalist, Researcher and Diversity Expert based in Berlin, Germany._

07/05/2026

AS POLICY SHIFTS...
U.S MAY SOON LIFT SALONE VISA BAN

The United States Government has discretly lifted a restriction that had halted visa processing for foreign medical doctors from 39 countries, including Sierra Leone, effectively exempting physicians from abroad travel ban that had placed many professionals in a state of uncertainty.

According to an update made to the U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website late last week, medical doctors are no longer affected by the suspension that previously delayed decisions on visa renewals, employment authorisation, and permanent residency applications.

The Department of Homeland Security subsequently confirmed the development, noting that "applications associated with medical physicians will continue to be processed."

The policy shift comes in response to increasing pressure from the medical sector following the expansion of travel restrictions introduced under the Trump administration on January 1st, 2026. The measures had imposed a full suspension on visa issuance and entry for nationals in 19 countries, including Sierra Leone, while placing partial limitations on an additional 20 countries.

Meanwhile, the United States and Sierra Leone have held high-level talks on ongoing US visa restrictions affecting Sierra Leone citizens, with discussions focused on identity verification, information-sharing, and cooperation on returns.

Both sides say diplomatic engagement is ongoing to address US concerns and work toward restoring normal US visa access.

It is, therefore, expected that the US visa restrictions on Sierra Leone would be reversed for other categories in the not-too-distant future.

07/05/2026

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Office of the National Security Press Release...

The Office of National Security updates the public on the media report about a co***ne seizure by Spanish Police.

07/05/2026

VP JULDEH JALLOH BIDS FAREWELL TO OVER 800 PILGRIMS

Vice President, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Tuesday 5th May 2026 bid farewell to over 800 intending pilgrims at the Gaddafi Mosque, east of Freetown, during a two-day grand orientation.
The programme was designed to prepare pilgrims for the Hajj by guiding them on the spiritual, physical, and medical aspects of the journey. It also brought together officials and religious leaders to offer prayers and practical advice ahead of the trip.

Addressing the gathering, the Vice President commended the Presidential Task Force and mosque authorities for the arrangement.
“I want to tell the presidential task force thank you. This place is big, nice, and very conducive,” he said.
He noted that since 2018, the government has worked to improve Hajj management, expanded access, and reduced challenges faced by pilgrims. “We want more Sierra Leoneans to have the opportunity to perform Hajj,” he added.He urged the pilgrims to remain disciplined and united throughout the journey. “You must stay united and adhere to all the directions that will be given to you,” he said, reminding them that in the Holy Land, all are equal.

VP Juldeh Jalloh also called on younger pilgrims to support the elderly and show respect to one another. “You are going to seek forgiveness, so respect one another and avoid complaints,” the Vice President advised. In a brief address, the Saudi Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Saud Al Musaed, praised the strong ties between Saudi Arabia and Sierra Leone, describing the Hajj as a symbol of cooperation and shared faith. He prayed for a successful pilgrimage, saying, “We pray that Allah accepts your Hajj,” and commended both governments, including the team at the Office of the Vice President, for their efforts.

He also urged pilgrims to remain patient, disciplined, and follow all guidelines for a safe journey.
Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Mohamed Haji Kella, praised Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh for his strong leadership in managing the Hajj, noting that over 7,600 Sierra Leoneans had performed the pilgrimage since 2018. “You have faithfully led this process and delivered for the country,” he said, while also appreciating support from Saudi Arabia.
He described the Vice President as “passionate and committed,” and thanked all stakeholders for their role in ensuring a successful Hajj process.

On behalf of the intending pilgrims, Alpha Wurie delivered a vote of thanks, commending the Vice President and the Presidential Task Force for what he described as a productive and successful two-day orientation. He noted that the program was meaningful and that pilgrims had learnt a lot about the importance of the Hajj rituals. He further pledged, on behalf of his colleagues, that they would adhere to all protocols and apply the knowledge gained throughout their spiritual journey.

Credit: Aminata Turay

07/05/2026

COURTESY OF NEWSPAPERS FRONT PAGES IN SIERRA LEONE 7/5/2026...

07/05/2026

*Orange Mobile Finance Sierra Leone Appoints New Chief Executive Officer*

The Board of Directors of Orange Mobile Finance Sierra Leone is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Mahamane Sidi Touré as its new Chief Executive Officer.

A seasoned telecommunications engineer, Mr. Touré brings over 17 years of experience within the SONATEL Group, with a strong track record across technology, commercial strategy, and digital financial services. He has held key leadership roles at Orange Mali and Orange Mobile Finance Mali, where he drove innovation and market growth in mobile money services.

Most recently, as CEO of Orange Mobile Finance Guinea Bissau, he successfully led the company to rapid growth, achieving profitability and delivering its first dividends within just 15 months of operations.

His appointment reflects a continued commitment to strengthening leadership and accelerating financial inclusion through innovative and customer centric solutions in Sierra Leone.

The Board of Directors and Management of Orange Mobile Finance Sierra Leone warmly welcome Mr. Touré and wish him every success in his new role.

06/05/2026

TO REVIVE NATIONAL TELECOM GIANT…

PRESIDENT BIO UNVEILS AFRICELL-SIERRATEL DEAL

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has officially unveiled a strategic partnership between the Government of Sierra Leone and Africell to relaunch Sierratel as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), marking a major turning point in the country’s telecommunications sector.

The launch ceremony, held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at the Miatta Conference Centre, formalized a framework that enables Sierratel to re-enter the market by leveraging Africell’s infrastructure, advanced technology, and commercial capacity, while retaining full government ownership.

Under the MVNO arrangement, Africell will provide network coverage, technical backbone, and sustained investment, while Sierratel will focus on customer service delivery, market engagement, and product innovation. The model allows for the immediate rollout of services without requiring heavy public sector capital expenditure.

Speaking at the event, Africell Chief Executive Officer Shadi Gerjawi described the agreement as a defining national milestone, emphasizing that it reflects Africell’s long-standing commitment to Sierra Leone. He noted that the initiative offers a practical and sustainable pathway for Sierratel’s return, enabling the company to resume full operations from the outset.

Gerjawi clarified that the partnership does not amount to privatization, stressing that Sierratel remains wholly owned by the Government. He explained that Africell’s role is to strengthen the company through modern infrastructure, improved operational efficiency, and continuous commercial investment to ensure long-term competitiveness.

He further disclosed that Sierratel subscribers will immediately gain access to voice, data, and mobile money services, supported by a dedicated operational team established by Africell to ensure independence and market competitiveness. The initiative, he said, is expected to enhance nationwide connectivity, improve service reliability, and introduce flexible, customer-focused offerings.

Addressing legacy concerns, the Africell CEO confirmed that the company will assume part of the financial liabilities owed to Sierratel staff, signaling a commitment to stabilizing the workforce.

In her remarks, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation Salima Monorma Bah stated that the Government deliberately avoided both privatization and direct infrastructure investment, opting instead for a sustainable partnership that leverages private sector efficiency while preserving public ownership.

She acknowledged that although Sierratel’s infrastructure had declined over time, its brand remained a valuable national asset. According to her, the MVNO model provides a viable route for rapid market re-entry, enabling the company to generate revenue while delivering improved services.

The Minister disclosed that the Government has committed an initial $2 million toward staff-related obligations and reaffirmed its commitment to settling all verified arrears transparently. She added that the partnership is expected to boost competition, improve affordability, and expand access to telecommunications services, particularly in underserved communities.

Delivering the keynote address, President Bio framed the initiative as a cornerstone of his government’s broader reform agenda, emphasizing that countries seeking relevance in the modern global economy must prioritize connectivity. He said the partnership reflects a deliberate strategy to strengthen national systems, enhance service delivery, and position Sierra Leone competitively both within Africa and globally.

The President underscored the link between connectivity and human capital development, noting that improved telecommunications infrastructure would drive innovation, increase productivity, and create opportunities across sectors. He highlighted that young people, who form the majority of the population, stand to benefit significantly from expanded digital access.

Reflecting on Sierratel’s legacy, he recalled its historic role as the backbone of national communication, connecting institutions, businesses, and families across the country. He described the company’s revival as more than a commercial effort, but a restoration of a strategic national asset with deep social and economic significance.

President Bio acknowledged that years of structural inefficiencies and outdated technology had weakened the company but maintained that the Government remains committed to a responsible and sustainable recovery path. He described the Africell partnership as evidence of a shift toward practical, results-driven solutions aligned with current industry realities.

On staff welfare, the President commended the resilience of Sierratel employees who remained committed despite prolonged challenges and assured that all verified obligations would be settled through a transparent and accountable process.

He further stated that the collaboration would expand access to reliable communication services across both urban and rural areas, benefiting traders, students, farmers, and entrepreneurs. Enhanced connectivity, he added, would also support critical sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and national security. The President pointed to the partnership as a sign of growing investor confidence in Sierra Leone, noting that credible international partners are increasingly engaging with the country due to ongoing reforms. He emphasized the need for continued innovation and adaptability to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

He concluded by describing the Africell–Sierratel partnership as a transformational step toward national development, grounded in performance, accountability, and measurable impact.

As part of the relaunch, Joe Abass Bangura has been appointed Managing Director of the Sierratel MVNO, tasked with overseeing operations and market positioning.

The event also recognized long-serving Sierratel staff for their dedication, including Ibrahim Mansaray (Driver), Edward Yarrimeh Kamara (Workers’ Representative), Issa Bangura (Director of Engineering), Kandeh Mansaray (Office Assistant), and Mariama Olu-Williams (Customer Care Manager), some of whom have served the company for over three decades.

Africell confirmed that the network is now fully operational, supported by a 24/7 customer care system, and emphasized that the partnership is designed to restore public confidence, enhance service quality, and drive financial inclusion through expanded mobile money services.

The relaunch of Sierratel under the MVNO framework signals a strategic shift toward public-private collaboration in Sierra Leone, positioning the telecommunications sector for improved efficiency, long-term sustainability, and accelerated growth.

Credit: Alvin Lansana Kargbo

06/05/2026

TO BRING ESSENTIAL SERVICES CLOSER TO THE PEOPLE...

NASSIT DG HAILED

Many Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad have showered praises on the leadership of the indefatigable Director General of the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), Mohamed Fuaad Daboh, for not only excelling in infrastructure development, but also extending social security protection to the majority of the citizens.

Paramount among NASSIT's infrastructure development is the construction of an ultra-modern structure as the Northwest Regional Office to serve as the newest Regional Service Centre.

According to the NASSIT Director General, Mr. Mohamed Fuaad Daboh, the same service people receive in Freewtown is the same service the Northwest Regional Office will be providing, adding that apart from the thermal installed in the building, they also have a solar farm that will serve whenever the thermal has a breakdown.


He assured the Northwest Regional Office will always be at the service of the public when requested, adding that Port Loko is very lucky because the Northwest Regional Office is very different from the ones in Bo, Kenema and Makeni in terms of technology.

The Port Loko office is very strategic, and according to the DG, by next month, they should be talking of a specific date when His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio will be officially commissioning the Northwest Regional Office amidst pomp and pageantry.

"I'm more impressed with the leadership of Mr. Mohamed Fuaad Daboh because of the modern structures NASSIT is building to ensure that the social security institution reaches the nook and cranny of Sierra Leone," a senior citizen in Port Loko said. He also hailed the leadership of Mr. Daboh, who made the informal sector of the scheme very active as compared to his predecessors.

The senior citizen believes that with time, the NASSIT boss will take the services of the scheme to everywhere in Sierra Leone if given the opportunity to continue serving the social security outfit.

Many have also praised the NASSIT DG for the construction of the District Office in Moyamba. President Bio commissioned and officially opened the Moyamba District Office in January 2026 and described the event as a crucial step towards extending social security protection to the vast majority of Sierra Leoneans.

According to the NASSIT DG, the decision to construct a District Office in Moyamba fulfilled a presidential mandate, supported by extensive research, policy deliberations, and community consultations.

The Sewa Grounds Market, which was commissioned by President Julius Maada Bio on 18th September 2025, was constructed by NASSIT to provide a modern, safe, and hygienic trading environment to vendors and shoppers, especially traders at the Abacha Street.