SierraLoaded News
SLBA Presidential Race Intensifies As Adama Tuma Jabbie Engages RSLAF Legal Practitioners
The incumbent President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), Mrs. Adama Tuma Jabbie, has engaged legal practitioners of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) at Defence Headquarters in Freetown as campaigns ahead of the SLBA presidential election continue. Adama Tuma Jabbie, who is seeking a second term in office, was accompanied by members of her campaign team, including SLBA Public Relations Officer Alfred Kamanda. The engagement follows a similar meeting held by her challenger, Ms. Martina Baindu Egbenda, Administrator and Registrar General, with RSLAF lawyers on July 22, 2026. Both candidates are currently seeking support from the Armed Forces’ legal corps ahead of the SLBA elections scheduled for August 1, 2026, in Freetown. The RSLAF has about 40 legal practitioners, including nearly 10 women, making the military legal community a significant group within the legal profession. Over the years, the RSLAF legal fraternity has produced several notable judicial figures, including retired Justice I.M. Koroma, who retired as a Colonel; Justice Mark Ngegba, who retired as a Captain; and Principal Magistrate Mustapha Braima-Jah, who retired as a Major. The engagements with military lawyers highlight the efforts by both presidential candidates to secure support ahead of what is expected to be a closely contested SLBA election. The post SLBA Presidential Race Intensifies As Adama Tuma Jabbie Engages RSLAF Legal Practitioners appeared first on Sierraloaded .
7/29/2026, 9:20:40 PM
SierraLoaded News
Government Launches New Drive to Attract Investment Into Startup Sector
The Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation has convened a high-level Founder and Venture Capital (VC) Roundtable as part of the READY Salone Investor Day, aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s startup ecosystem and connecting entrepreneurs with potential investors. The roundtable, organised in partnership with the International Trade Centre (ITC), KOICA Nigeria Office, and Felei TechCity, brought together Sierra Leonean startup founders and African investors to discuss opportunities for business growth, innovation, and investment. The session featured investors including Zachariah George of Launch Africa Ventures and Tamim El Zein of Seedstars Africa Ventures, who engaged with local entrepreneurs through a series of structured discussions. During the engagement, startup founders presented their businesses, outlined challenges affecting their growth, and highlighted the support needed to scale their operations. The platform also provided investors with deeper insights into participating startups ahead of formal pitch presentations. Among the participating entrepreneurs were Emily Fanday, founder of fintech platform The Community, which focuses on expanding access to finance, and Emmanuel Lahai, founder of Send Me, a company supporting businesses through e-commerce and logistics solutions. The Ministry also recognised the contributions of ecosystem partners, including Innovation SL, Muzambiringa, and Cravings4Development, for their role in supporting entrepreneurship and innovation in Sierra Leone. Stakeholders noted that engagements of this nature are important in creating partnerships, attracting investment, and supporting the sustainable growth of the country’s startup ecosystem. The post Government Launches New Drive to Attract Investment Into Startup Sector appeared first on Sierraloaded .
7/29/2026, 9:19:02 PM
SierraLoaded News
22 Key Reforms Set to Transform Sierra Leone’s Police Complaints Board
The Independent Police Complaints Board (IPCB) has begun steps to strengthen its institutional independence, effectiveness, and accountability following a strategic engagement with the Public Sector Reform Unit (PSRU). The meeting focused on developing an implementation matrix to guide the execution of recommendations from the 2025 Management and Functional Review (MFR). The review identified 22 key reforms covering IPCB’s legal framework, staffing, training, logistics, and office accommodation, all aimed at improving the Board’s capacity to fulfil its mandate. IPCB Executive Secretary, Mr. Rashid Kabba, described the draft MFR report as a significant milestone in the Board’s reform process. He reaffirmed IPCB’s commitment to implementing the recommendations, noting that the reforms will help strengthen the institution’s mandate, independence, and accountability to the public. PSRU Director, Mr. Sulaiman Phoray-Musa, disclosed that Cabinet has endorsed the MFR report, making the implementation of the recommendations a requirement. He emphasised that continued collaboration between PSRU and IPCB will be essential to ensuring the reforms are properly understood and effectively implemented. Chief of Programmes, Mr. Albert R. E. C. Williams, highlighted the importance of maintaining accurate staff records and establishing a comprehensive legal framework to strengthen IPCB’s oversight responsibilities. He encouraged the Board’s leadership and staff to sustain their cooperation, expressing confidence in the successful implementation of the reforms. The partnership between IPCB and PSRU is expected to enhance the Board’s institutional capacity and strengthen its role in promoting police accountability and public confidence. The post 22 Key Reforms Set to Transform Sierra Leone’s Police Complaints Board appeared first on Sierraloaded .
7/29/2026, 8:33:46 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
Kush, a synthetic and highly addictive drug, devastates Sierra Leone and Liberia - Le Monde.fr
Kush, a synthetic and highly addictive drug, devastates Sierra Leone and Liberia Le Monde.fr
7/29/2026, 8:13:49 PM
Africanews
United Nations extends sanctions against armed groups in Central African Republic
The measures include asset freezes, travel bans, and restrictions on supplying weapons and military equipment to them.
7/29/2026, 8:03:37 PM
AllAfrica
Africa: 'Africa Must Benefit From Its Minerals'
[Ghanaian Times] President John Dramani Mahama has urged African governments to place the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) at the centre of their development strategies to accelerate the continent's growth.
7/29/2026, 7:47:02 PM
BBC Africa
The athlete from Cameroon who has never held her Olympic medal
The story of Cameroon Olympic medallist Madias Ngake's remarkable journey from sleeping rough and seeking asylum to winning silver for England at Glasgow 2026.
7/29/2026, 7:38:24 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone Bo Mission on track to exceed 10,000 baptisms in 2 years - Deseret News
Sierra Leone Bo Mission on track to exceed 10,000 baptisms in 2 years Deseret News
7/29/2026, 6:24:56 PM
Africanews
DR Congo: Some Kinshasa residents support controversial referendum law
The opposition has denounced the ruling saying it gives President Félix Tshisekedi the green light to seek a third term in office.
7/29/2026, 5:42:17 PM
SierraLoaded News
Government Moves to Implement Electronic Transactions Act After Seven Years
The Government of Sierra Leone has launched a high-level public-private dialogue aimed at operationalising the Electronic Transactions Act 2018, a law that has remained largely unimplemented for seven years. The July 27–28 engagement was led by the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation (MoCTI) and the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), with support from the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). It brought together government institutions, financial and telecommunications sectors, private businesses, development partners, and civil society to address regulatory gaps affecting digital commerce. Speaking at the forum, Minister of Trade and Industry Hon. Alpha Ibrahim Sesay stressed the importance of building trust in the digital marketplace, stating that a reliable e-transactions ecosystem is vital for expanding trade, improving the ease of doing business, and unlocking Sierra Leone’s digital economy. The Electronic Transactions Act, passed in 2018 and enacted in January 2019, provides legal recognition for electronic signatures, consumer protection, and digital communications in courts. However, key enforcement structures, including digital certification authorities, electronic evidence procedures, dispute resolution mechanisms, and penalties for violations, have not been fully established. Through the dialogue, government ministries are working to define regulatory responsibilities and develop a roadmap for implementation. MoCTI’s Director of Policy, Planning and Research, Mr. James Kanja Cobba, highlighted the need to align legal frameworks with the rapid growth of mobile money and online commerce. The government is expected to produce a gap analysis report, policy memorandum, and strategic roadmap to guide the transition from legislation to effective regulation. Officials believe the initiative could position Sierra Leone as a model for other African countries facing similar digital regulation challenges. The dialogue is supported under the READY Salone project, which runs until 2028 and involves MoCTI, the Ministry of Youth Affairs, the Ministry of Trade and Industry, and the International Trade Centre. Government officials say establishing a functional electronic transactions framework will strengthen investor confidence, protect consumers, and support inclusive economic growth as Sierra Leone expands its digital economy. The post Government Moves to Implement Electronic Transactions Act After Seven Years appeared first on Sierraloaded .
7/29/2026, 5:34:59 PM
SierraLoaded News
University of Sierra Leone Sets Date for 2026/2027 Online Admissions
The University of Sierra Leone (USL), comprising Fourah Bay College (FBC), the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM), the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS), and the School of Postgraduate Studies, has announced the reopening of its online application portal for admissions into the 2026/2027 Academic Year. According to a notice issued by the University, the online application portal will reopen on Monday, 3rd August 2026, for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes offered at Fourah Bay College (FBC), the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM), and the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS). The portal also provides access to the University’s e-learning Master’s degree programmes in Business Administration, Journalism and Media Studies, Communication and Development Studies, and Public Relations and Marketing Communication. Prospective applicants have been directed to pay the application processing fee at Sierra Leone Commercial Bank, Commerce and Mortgage Bank (CMB), Rokel Commercial Bank, or Access Bank in Freetown or any of their branches nationwide. The application fee is NLe500.00 for undergraduate programmes and NLe600.00 for postgraduate programmes. The University further stated that applicants must provide the National Identification Number (NIN) on their National ID cards when completing the application form. Failure to do so will prevent them from completing the application process. Applicants have also been advised to visit the University of Sierra Leone’s website, www.usl.edu.sl , for detailed information on admission requirements for the various colleges, faculties, departments, and programmes. Candidates awaiting the release of their WASSCE results are also eligible to apply. The deadline for purchasing application PINs from the designated banks is Friday, 11th September 2026, while the deadline for submitting applications for undergraduate programmes is Tuesday, 15th September 2026. The University also reminded prospective students that its diploma and certificate programmes are terminal qualifications. Applicants seeking admission into degree programmes after completing diploma or certificate studies must satisfy the University’s minimum entry requirements. The post University of Sierra Leone Sets Date for 2026/2027 Online Admissions appeared first on Sierraloaded .
7/29/2026, 5:22:26 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
SLDIC USA 2026 Postponed to 2027 — Attention Now Turns to Sierra Leone Diaspora Week, December 2026 - SwitSalone
SLDIC USA 2026 Postponed to 2027 — Attention Now Turns to Sierra Leone Diaspora Week, December 2026 SwitSalone
7/29/2026, 5:12:40 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
Thousands baptized in Sierra Leone Bo Mission in past 2 years as Church grows in African country - Church News
Thousands baptized in Sierra Leone Bo Mission in past 2 years as Church grows in African country Church News
7/29/2026, 4:56:28 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
Beyond the Ballot: How a Ghanaian photographer is documenting the everyday realities of democracy in Sierra Leone - pan african visions
Beyond the Ballot: How a Ghanaian photographer is documenting the everyday realities of democracy in Sierra Leone pan african visions
7/29/2026, 4:19:47 PM
Africanews
Kinshasa: 'The night has its own realities' group helps impoverished children
For the past three years, Sarah Ndele and her friends have been traveling through the working-class neighborhoods of Kinshasa as part of their project “Butu nde Makambu” (“The Night Has Its Own Realities”), aiming to introduce children to art.
7/29/2026, 4:17:15 PM
SierraLoaded News
German Embassy, Partners Complete Landmark Energy Projects in Sierra Leone
The German Embassy in Freetown, in collaboration with the Government of Sierra Leone and international development partners, has celebrated the successful completion of two major energy projects that have significantly expanded access to clean cooking solutions and electricity across the country. The projects, “Energising Development” (EnDev) and “Transformational Energy Use in Sierra Leone,” were officially concluded at the end of June during a ceremony attended by the Sierra Leonean Minister of Energy and representatives from the Ministry of Energy, GIZ, the Netherlands Enterprise Agency, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), and the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD). According to the German Embassy, the initiatives have enabled 26,400 people nationwide to adopt clean cooking solutions, helping to reduce dependence on traditional fuels while improving household health and environmental sustainability. The projects also provided 17,110 people with access to electricity, enhancing livelihoods and expanding opportunities for economic and social development in communities across Sierra Leone. In addition, 2,485 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and 150 social institutions benefited from modern energy solutions, supporting business growth and improving access to essential services. A key focus of the projects was promoting the use of solar energy as a sustainable alternative to charcoal production, thereby helping to reduce pressure on Sierra Leone’s remaining forests. The initiatives also prioritised the empowerment of women through targeted guidance and training programmes designed to strengthen their participation in the clean energy sector. The Embassy highlighted that the projects were implemented using market-oriented approaches and results-based financing, ensuring sustainable and measurable outcomes. It further noted that the EnDev model implemented in Sierra Leone has gained international recognition and is now regarded as a model project in more than 20 countries worldwide. Building on the success of the completed initiatives, the German Embassy disclosed that preparations are underway for a follow-up project known as “SURE,” with additional details expected to be announced in the autumn. The post German Embassy, Partners Complete Landmark Energy Projects in Sierra Leone appeared first on Sierraloaded .
7/29/2026, 4:00:13 PM
Africanews
DR Congo says militia linked to Rwanda's genocide agree to surrender
The disarmament of the FDLR is a key step towards implementing a United States-brokered peace deal between Kinshasa and Kigali.
7/29/2026, 3:38:35 PM
SierraLoaded News
First Lady Fatima Bio Departs for Angola to Join Continental Women’s Resilience Campaign
First Lady of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, has departed the Freetown International Airport for Luanda, Angola, to participate in a high-level continental campaign focused on strengthening resilience for women and girls across Africa. In a statement shared before her departure, the First Lady said she would be joining her fellow African First Ladies and partners in the campaign titled “Strengthening Resilience for Women and Girls: Climate, Conflicts and Sustainable Futures.” Dr. Bio, who also serves as President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), described the initiative as a reflection of the collective commitment of African leaders to empower women and girls in the face of growing challenges posed by climate change and conflict. She noted that the campaign aims to promote resilient communities where women and girls can thrive despite the social, economic and environmental pressures affecting many parts of the continent. The First Lady further reaffirmed her dedication to advancing initiatives that protect and empower women and girls, stressing the importance of collaboration among African nations in building sustainable and inclusive futures. She expressed optimism that the engagement in Luanda would strengthen partnerships and reinforce the shared vision of creating stronger, safer and more resilient communities across Africa. The post First Lady Fatima Bio Departs for Angola to Join Continental Women’s Resilience Campaign appeared first on Sierraloaded .
7/29/2026, 3:11:07 PM
Africanews
Iran war paralyses neighbouring Iraq's crucial Umm Qasr port
The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has prevented commercial vessels from reaching the port, one of Iraq's main trade terminals and its only deep-water gateway.
7/29/2026, 2:45:30 PM
SierraLoaded News
Sierra Leone Joins New Regional Push to Restore Mangroves, Coastal Wetlands
Wetlands International, in collaboration with its partners, has officially launched Mangrove Capital Africa Phase IV (MCA IV) in Freetown, signalling a renewed push to restore and protect degraded coastal wetlands across West Africa. The new phase of the initiative will focus on strengthening mangrove restoration efforts along the coastal corridors of Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, and Sierra Leone, under the theme “Moving towards a regional mangrove corridor.” The programme seeks to enhance cross-border collaboration while promoting sustainable environmental management and community resilience. The launch event also reflected on the progress made during Phase III, part of a broader ten-year programme that began in 2017. Funded by DOB Ecology, the initiative aims to conserve or restore up to one million hectares of mangroves across Africa, with an estimated two million people expected to benefit from improved ecosystems and livelihoods. Speaking at the launch, Ibrahima Thiam, Executive Director of Wetlands International, described the new phase as a critical step forward in strengthening partnerships and scaling up efforts to protect vital wetland ecosystems. He emphasised the importance of coordinated regional action in addressing environmental degradation and climate challenges. The programme adopts innovative conservation strategies, including Community-Based Ecological Mangrove Restoration (CBEMR) and the use of the Global Mangrove Watch (GMW) platform for monitoring. Unlike traditional tree-planting approaches, CBEMR focuses on restoring natural ecological processes such as water flow, while actively involving local communities to support sustainable regeneration. Sierra Leone continues to play a key role in the initiative, with ongoing restoration activities in areas such as Moyamba, where degraded rice fields are being converted back into functional mangrove ecosystems. These efforts are aimed at improving environmental health while also supporting local livelihoods. Across the region, the programme integrates restoration with community development initiatives, including the establishment of mangrove nurseries and small-scale hydraulic structures to improve soil conditions and revive agricultural productivity. Women have emerged as central actors in the programme, particularly through Mangrove Conservation and Restoration Savings and Credit Groups, which support both environmental stewardship and economic empowerment. As Phase IV begins, stakeholders are optimistic that the initiative will deepen regional cooperation, expand restoration efforts, and deliver long-term benefits for both ecosystems and coastal communities in West Africa. The post Sierra Leone Joins New Regional Push to Restore Mangroves, Coastal Wetlands appeared first on Sierraloaded .
7/29/2026, 2:40:48 PM
SierraLoaded News
Mohamed Babatunde Cole Honoured by Fourah Bay College for Outstanding Legacy in Engineering and National Development
Fourah Bay College (FBC), University of Sierra Leone, has honoured renowned engineer, industrialist and philanthropist Alhaji Dr Ing. Mohamed Babatunde Cole for his outstanding contributions to engineering, education, business leadership and national development as part of activities marking the institution’s bicentennial celebrations. The recognition was announced through the College’s Bicentennial Profile Series, which highlights distinguished alumni whose achievements have significantly impacted Sierra Leone and beyond ahead of FBC’s 200th anniversary in 2027. According to the College, Dr Cole remains one of its most accomplished graduates. He completed his studies at the Fourah Bay College School of Engineering in 1977, graduating with a Division One degree in Mechanical Engineering and ranking among the best students in his class. Following his graduation, he pursued further professional training in several fields, including marketing, operations management, enterprise development, risk management, leadership and finance. Over the years, Dr Cole has established himself as a leading figure in Sierra Leone’s corporate and industrial sectors, serving in several key leadership positions. His career has included roles as Managing Director of NP (Sierra Leone) Limited, Executive Chairman of NP Group Limited, President of the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, Board Chairman of Leoneoil Company Limited and Chairman of the Board of Standard Chartered Bank Sierra Leone. He has also served as Director and Chairman of Ecobank Sierra Leone, Director of Leone Dock Labour Company and Fellow of the Sierra Leone Institution of Engineers, among numerous other appointments that have contributed to the growth of the country’s business and engineering sectors. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Fourah Bay College commended Dr Cole for his longstanding commitment to education and philanthropy. The institution noted that he has provided financial and academic support to many underprivileged students over the years, enabling them to pursue higher education and graduate in disciplines such as engineering, medicine, law and business. A major highlight of Dr Cole’s contribution to his alma mater is the donation of a modern multipurpose Engineering Building valued at US$2.5 million. The facility, which was commissioned by President Julius Maada Bio, includes smart classrooms, lecture theatres, office spaces, Wi-Fi connectivity and a canteen, with capacity to accommodate approximately 700 students. College authorities described the donation as a transformative investment in engineering education, noting that it has significantly improved teaching and learning conditions within the institution. FBC further praised Dr Cole for his humility and dedication to service, stating that despite his numerous achievements, he has consistently focused on creating lasting impact rather than seeking public recognition. The College described his life and career as a model of visionary leadership, selfless service and commitment to national development, adding that his legacy continues to inspire students, alumni and young professionals across Sierra Leone. As the bicentennial celebrations gather momentum, Fourah Bay College reaffirmed its commitment to recognising individuals whose contributions have strengthened the institution’s legacy while calling on alumni, private sector institutions and development partners to support projects aimed at advancing the College’s future. The post Mohamed Babatunde Cole Honoured by Fourah Bay College for Outstanding Legacy in Engineering and National Development appeared first on Sierraloaded .
7/29/2026, 2:21:58 PM
Africanews
First person vaccinated during trial of new Ebola jab
A volunteer was injected on Friday with the first dose of a rapidly developed vaccine targeting the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola driving a deadly outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Oxford University said.
7/29/2026, 2:19:27 PM
AllAfrica
Africa: New Monthly HIV Pill Brings Hope but Africa Must Pay Its Own Way
[Scrolla] Funda ngesiZuluBy Palesa Matlala
7/29/2026, 1:58:11 PM