Google: Sierra Leone
New 120-Bed Hospital in Sierra Leone Gives Hope for Maternal Care - SwitSalone
New 120-Bed Hospital in Sierra Leone Gives Hope for Maternal Care SwitSalone
6/2/2026, 6:04:20 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone Diaspora Investment Conference 2026 Announces Three Global Host Cities - SwitSalone
Sierra Leone Diaspora Investment Conference 2026 Announces Three Global Host Cities SwitSalone
6/2/2026, 5:54:03 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
From Remittances to Investment: Sierra Leone’s Next Financial Shift - SwitSalone
From Remittances to Investment: Sierra Leone’s Next Financial Shift SwitSalone
6/2/2026, 5:52:56 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
Bridging the Great Divide: How Amikam Consulting is Architecting Sierra Leone’s Future Workforce - SwitSalone
Bridging the Great Divide: How Amikam Consulting is Architecting Sierra Leone’s Future Workforce SwitSalone
6/2/2026, 5:52:56 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
The “Failure to Launch” Mindset: Turning Sierra Leone’s Problems into Portfolios - SwitSalone
The “Failure to Launch” Mindset: Turning Sierra Leone’s Problems into Portfolios SwitSalone
6/2/2026, 5:52:56 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
Why Some Communities in Sierra Leone Are Missing Out on Mining Money - SwitSalone
Why Some Communities in Sierra Leone Are Missing Out on Mining Money SwitSalone
6/2/2026, 5:52:56 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
Orange Sierra Leone Launches 7th Edition of Social Venture Prize to Support Local Startups - SwitSalone
Orange Sierra Leone Launches 7th Edition of Social Venture Prize to Support Local Startups SwitSalone
6/2/2026, 5:34:42 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
Uthman Bangura to represent Sierra Leone at 2024 Mister Supernational - SwitSalone
Uthman Bangura to represent Sierra Leone at 2024 Mister Supernational SwitSalone
6/2/2026, 5:11:46 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
Spotlight on Mabinty Mansaray: Miss Sierra Leone Supranational 2024 - SwitSalone
Spotlight on Mabinty Mansaray: Miss Sierra Leone Supranational 2024 SwitSalone
6/2/2026, 5:01:28 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
The Story of a Saxophonist from Sierra Leone - SwitSalone
The Story of a Saxophonist from Sierra Leone SwitSalone
6/2/2026, 4:32:40 PM
SierraLoaded News
Chief Minister Acknowledges Freetown Blackout, Says Government Working on Solution
Chief Minister Dr David Moinina Sengeh has acknowledged the ongoing electricity blackout affecting parts of Freetown, assuring citizens that the situation is temporary and efforts are underway to resolve it. “You’re absolutely right, blackout is still in Freetown, but it will be for a little bit until we solve it,” Dr Sengeh said while addressing Sierra Leoneans in Leicester City, United Kingdom. The Chief Minister used the opportunity to highlight the government’s broader achievements in the energy sector, noting that access to electricity across the country has significantly improved. He stated that the current administration has “doubled the number of people who have access to electricity” nationwide, pointing to developments in several districts. Dr Sengeh cited Kamakwie, which he described as “the heartbeat of the APC and a stronghold of the opposition in Karene District,” as an example, saying the town now enjoys a 24-hour electricity supply. He added that similar progress has been recorded in other parts of the country. Addressing criticism surrounding the outages in the capital, the Chief Minister cautioned against generalising the situation. He said, “Yes, blackout is in Freetown, but it may be wrong to conclude that blackout in the dry season means government is not delivering or that the 36 per cent access figure is a lie.” He emphasised the importance of accountability and openness in governance, noting that challenges in Freetown must be acknowledged while also recognising progress made elsewhere. “Accountability and transparency require that we speak about what is challenging in Freetown and also accept that across the country government has indeed been trying,” he said. Dr. Sengeh further explained that increased electricity access in the Northwest and Northeast regions has been supported by the introduction of mini-grids. He urged citizens to understand the distinction between universal electricity access and incremental progress. “It’s important that we are able to understand the difference between everybody having light, which will take time, and the fact that we have doubled the number of people who have access to electricity,” he concluded. The post Chief Minister Acknowledges Freetown Blackout, Says Government Working on Solution appeared first on Sierraloaded .
6/2/2026, 4:13:56 PM
SierraLoaded News
U.S. Embassy Freetown Debunks Reports of Embassy Closure
The United States Embassy in Freetown has dismissed reports suggesting that it is set to close, assuring the public that its operations continue as normal. In an official statement, the Embassy clarified that no decision has been made to close either the Embassy in Freetown or any U.S. consulate, contrary to reports circulating on social media and other platforms. “No embassy or consulate closures have been announced, and operations continue as normal,” the statement said. The Embassy further explained that the U.S. Department of State routinely evaluates its overseas operations to ensure that American diplomatic missions are effectively advancing U.S. foreign policy priorities and serving the public efficiently. “The Department of State is constantly evaluating its overseas operations in order to advance America’s priorities as efficiently and effectively as possible. We have nothing further to announce at this time,” the statement added. The Embassy also reassured visa applicants and other members of the public that any future changes affecting visa applications, interview procedures, or consular services would be communicated through official channels. “In case of updates to the visa application or interview process, we share details on our website and directly inform any affected applicants,” the Embassy stated. The post U.S. Embassy Freetown Debunks Reports of Embassy Closure appeared first on Sierraloaded .
6/2/2026, 3:44:09 PM
SierraLoaded News
Autopsy Reveals Omega Sesay Was Strangled And Poisoned to Death – Family Refutes Drug Rumors
he family of Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay, a prominent All People’s Congress (APC) official recently found dead in a Lungi hotel room, has released post-mortem results indicating he was strangled and potentially poisoned. The findings categorically dismiss widespread social media rumors that his death was the result of a drug or alcohol overdose. According to a public notice issued by the grieving family, the autopsy conducted in Freetown revealed clear evidence of foul play. Pathologists determined that Sesay’s neck was broken, which led to strangulation. Furthermore, the examination uncovered indications of severe food poisoning, with medical examiners noting that his gut was found to be black. The release of the post-mortem results serves as a direct rebuttal to online speculation and blog reports alleging that Sesay died from consuming “pegga pack,” illicit drugs, or excessive alcohol. “We wish to inform the general public that these claims are false, misleading, and unsupported by the findings of the post-mortem examination,” the family’s statement read. They urged media practitioners, bloggers, and the public to stop circulating unverified claims that tarnish the late politician’s legacy, asking for dignity and respect during their period of profound grief. The grim autopsy results add a disturbing new layer to a case that has already rocked the Port Loko District. Sesay was discovered lifeless in a hotel room in Lungi, Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom, just hours after watching the UEFA Champions League final. He had been seen earlier that day in a widely circulated video wearing a blue vest and red cap. According to earlier reports, he was allegedly killed alongside a woman identified as Mary Sia Bangura. Following the discovery, APC Hon. Abdul Kargbo coordinated the immediate transfer of Sesay’s remains to Freetown for the autopsy. Police in Lungi have already taken three suspects into custody in connection with the alleged murders, though authorities have not yet released the identities of the detainees or a suspected motive. The post Autopsy Reveals Omega Sesay Was Strangled And Poisoned to Death – Family Refutes Drug Rumors appeared first on Sierraloaded .
6/2/2026, 3:28:06 PM
SierraLoaded News
Sierra Leone Government Spending Outpaces Revenue in First Four Months of 2026
Sierra Leone’s consolidated fund recorded a fiscal deficit of more than 370 million Leones between January and April 2026, as government spending exceeded total revenue and foreign grants, according to the latest Statement of Fiscal Operations released by the Accountant General’s office. The report, published for the month ended 30th April 2026, shows that total revenue and grants receipts stood at SLE 5.84 billion for the January-to-April period. However, total government expenditure over the same four months reached SLE 6.21 billion, leaving a shortfall of approximately SLE 370 million. The deficit comes despite an annual budgeted revenue target of SLE 22.16 billion in domestic revenue alone, not including foreign grants. Domestic revenue collection weakened significantly in April, falling to SLE 1.46 billion from SLE 2.04 billion in March — a drop of nearly 30 per cent in a single month. Income tax receipts were particularly hard hit, declining from SLE 983 million in March to just SLE 590 million in April. Foreign grants, which were budgeted at SLE 3.77 billion for the full year, have all but failed to materialise so far. Between January and April, the government received only SLE 5.78 million in direct budgetary support from international organisations — barely 0.15 per cent of the annual target. No bilateral grants were recorded at all. On the expenditure side, the largest outlays fell under general public services, which consumed SLE 2.28 billion in the first four months. Public order and safety followed closely at SLE 924 million, while economic affairs accounted for SLE 330 million. Personnel expenditure for April alone stood at SLE 678 million, while other charges — including project arrears — reached SLE 873 million. Domestic development spending was comparatively modest at SLE 325 million for the month. The report was signed by Accountant General Richard S. Williams, in accordance with Section 66(1) of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016. The post Sierra Leone Government Spending Outpaces Revenue in First Four Months of 2026 appeared first on Sierraloaded .
6/2/2026, 3:15:33 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
The struggles of a mother and her autistic child in Sierra Leone: “Autists are not demons” – she cries - Politico SL
The struggles of a mother and her autistic child in Sierra Leone: “Autists are not demons” – she cries Politico SL
6/2/2026, 3:12:01 PM
SierraLoaded Diaspora
U.S. Government Releases Names and Photos of 26 Sierra Leonean Criminals for Deportation
The United States government has released the names and photographs of 26 Sierra Leoneans who are facing deportation, according to an official list published by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The Sierra Leoneans are among 355 individuals from West Africa identified for removal from the United States. The list includes nationals from Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Cameroon, and several other countries, with Liberia accounting for the highest number at 94, followed by Nigeria with 110. According to the DHS database, the Sierra Leonean deportees have been arrested across multiple US states, including Minnesota, Ohio, New York, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Massachusetts, Arizona, Missouri, California, North Carolina, New Jersey, and Georgia. The alleged crimes listed against the individuals include homicide, burglary, domestic violence, sexual offences, rape, kidnapping, armed robbery, fraud, forgery, drug trafficking, identity theft, and assault on police officers. Below is the list of the 26 Sierra Leonean nationals published on the DHS portal, along with their respective charges and the locations of their arrests: Mariama Kanu: Homicide, Burglary (Arrested in Minneapolis, MN) Hassan Jalloh: Domestic Violence, Abduct-No Ransom or Assault (Arrested in Lebanon, OH) Salifu Kanu: Sex Offense (Arrested in Alden, NY) Roland Spencer: Carrying Prohibited Weapon, Robbery – Street-Strongarm (Arrested in Hagerstown, MD) Solomon Yarteh: Fraud (Arrested in Allenwood, PA) Abdulai Janneh: Forgery (Arrested in Conroe, TX) Garnet Murray Sesay: Burglary – Forced Entry-Residence, Kidnap Adult, Robbery, Fraud By Wire, Abscond While On Probation, Money Laundering (Arrested in Richmond, VA) Sulaiman Nabieu: Cocaine – Sell, Dangerous Drugs (Arrested in Upper Darby, PA) Mahmoud Shamseddine: Assault, Cocaine – Sell, Aggravated Assault – Police Officer-Strongarm (Arrested in Boston, MA) Hennessy Taylor: Failure To Register As A Sex Offender, Failure To Appear, Sex Assault – Carnal Abuse (Arrested in Alden, NY) Ibrahim Kabba: Aggravated Assault – Family-Strongarm, Domestic Violence (Arrested in Phoenix, AZ) Mohammed Sesay: Sex Offense, Rape (Arrested in Cumberland, MD) Shaman Wesley: Exploitation/Enticement (Arrested in Farmington, MO) Foday Kanu: Sex Assault, Rape – Strongarm, Aggravated Assault – Family, Intimidation, Homicide-Willful Kill-Weapon (Arrested in Bellfonte, PA) Dauda Conteh: Probation Violation, Larceny (Arrested in Bel Air, MD) Ibrahima Yatabarry: Counterfeiting, Robbery (Arrested in Alden, NY) Ousseynou Camara: Stolen Property, Larceny (Arrested in Clinton, MD) Mohamed Silla: Larceny – From Banking-Type Institution, Fraud, Identity Theft (Arrested in Clarksburg, MD) Patrick Clarkson: Smuggle Contraband Into Prison, Aggravated Assault – Police Officer, Probation Violation, Aggravated Assault – Family, Drug Possession, Cruelty Toward Child, Fraud – Illegal Use Credit Cards (Arrested in Big Stone Gap, VA) Osman Ibrahim: Possession Of Weapon, Sex Offense (Arrested in Atwater, CA) Kabai Hassan: Harassing Communication (Arrested in Scranton, PA) Amadu Maddy: Obstruct Police, Drug Trafficking, Marijuana – Possession (Arrested in Lumberton, NC) Ismir Ahmed: Homicide, Kidnapping, Crimes Against Person, Aggravated Assault – Non-family-Weapon (Arrested in Soledad, CA) Prince Knox: Fraud, Rape (Arrested in Saint Louis, MO) Ebrahima Bangura: Cocaine – Sell, Counterfeiting, Marijuana – Possession (Arrested in Atlanta, GA) Moualim Nabe: Dangerous Drugs (Arrested in Highland Park, NJ) The full list of 26 Sierra Leoneans, along with their photographs and specific charges, is available on the official DHS website at www.dhs.gov/wow. The DHS has stated that the individuals are being deported largely due to immigration violations, including overstaying visas, entering the country unlawfully, or failing to meet residency requirements. Many of those named also face serious criminal convictions. Since January 1, 2026, Sierra Leone has been subject to a complete suspension of entry for its nationals under the United States Presidential Proclamation. The White House cited “persistent and severe deficiencies” in Sierra Leone’s identity-management protocols and a lack of cooperation on deportations as grounds for the entry ban. Unlike travelers from neighboring countries such as Nigeria, Senegal, or Guinea, who may still visit the U.S. after paying a visa bond of up to $15,000, most Sierra Leoneans are currently barred from obtaining any U.S. visa. The ban applies to both immigrant and non-immigrant visa categories and has severely restricted legal travel for Sierra Leonean citizens seeking to enter the United States. In a separate but related development, Sierra Leone agreed in May 2026 to a third-country deportation deal with the United States which allows the U.S. to deport migrants to Sierra Leone even if they are not Sierra Leonean citizens. Under the terms of the deal, Freetown has agreed to accept up to 300 deportees annually, with the crucial condition that all individuals must originate from member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The United States is providing $1.5 million to support the program, covering “humanitarian and operational costs”. The first flight arrived at Freetown’s international airport on May 19, carrying nine deportees—five from Ghana, two from Guinea, one from Senegal, and one from Nigeria—far fewer than the 25 initially expected. The post U.S. Government Releases Names and Photos of 26 Sierra Leonean Criminals for Deportation appeared first on Sierraloaded .
6/2/2026, 2:17:50 PM
SierraLoaded News
Online Development Scorecard Launched to Track Sierra Leone Government Performance
The Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) has launched the Salone Development Scorecard (SDSC) which will track, in real time, progress on 100 priority targets outlined in Sierra Leone’s National Development Plan (2024–2030). The development plan focuses on key national priorities including food security, human capital development, youth employment, public sector reform, and infrastructure and technology aimed at driving economic transformation. According to IGR representatives Andrew Lavali and Prof. Fredline M’Cormack-Hale the Scorecard is designed as a citizen-focused accountability platform that provides regular and evidence-based updates on the status of government delivery across these priority areas. The organisation stated that for each target, it conducts independent research and gathers verified data to assess progress and ensure credible public reporting. They noted that Sierra Leoneans may hold different political views and live in diverse regions across the country, but they share common aspirations. These include access to affordable food, decent employment opportunities, clean water, improved roads, quality healthcare, and better education services. Both speakers further emphasised that the SDSC is intended to bridge the gap between government commitments and citizens’ lived experiences by making development performance more transparent and accessible to the public. “All Sierra Leoneans are encouraged to use this platform to monitor government performance, ask questions about progress, and share feedback to help improve service delivery,” they stated. They further explained that the Scorecard is expected to strengthen civic participation by enabling citizens, civil society groups, and stakeholders to actively engage with development data and hold institutions accountable for results. They said that the initiative aims to promote a culture of transparency, evidence-based decision-making, and improved governance outcomes as Sierra Leone continues to implement its national development agenda. Delivering the keynote address, renowned historian and public intellectual, Prof. Joe A.D. Alie, described the Scorecard as a timely and essential instrument for strengthening transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in national development. Prof. Alie noted that the Scorecard goes beyond data collection, serving instead as a civic tool designed to measure how effectively national development commitments are being implemented. He stressed that development cannot be achieved in isolation, but requires strong institutions, informed citizens, and consistent accountability systems that ensure public resources are used effectively. According to him, without accountability, even the best policies risk failing at the implementation stage, adding that what matters is not only what is planned, but what is delivered to the people. The historian acknowledged that Sierra Leone has made progress in several areas of governance and development over the years. However, he also pointed to persistent challenges, including institutional weaknesses, economic pressures, and implementation gaps that continue to slow down national progress. He further emphasized that such challenges should be viewed as opportunities to deepen democratic governance and improve public sector performance. Prof. Alie called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, urging government institutions, civil society organizations, development partners, and citizens to actively engage with the Scorecard as a tool for national improvement. He explained that the initiative should serve as both a mirror and a guide—reflecting the country’s achievements while also highlighting areas that require urgent attention. “What we need is not only planning, but implementation; not only promises, but measurable outcomes that improve people’s lives,” he stated. He added that the success of Sierra Leone’s development agenda depends on accountability, transparency, and a shared sense of responsibility among all actors in the governance space. The post Online Development Scorecard Launched to Track Sierra Leone Government Performance appeared first on Sierraloaded .
6/2/2026, 1:17:52 PM
Google: Sierra Leone
Jamb Supports Sierra Leone’s Drive to Centralise Admissions System - Voice of Nigeria
Jamb Supports Sierra Leone’s Drive to Centralise Admissions System Voice of Nigeria
6/2/2026, 11:31:30 AM
SierraLoaded Politics
Police Arrest Three Over Alleged Murder of APC Politician Abdulram Omega Sesay in Port Loko
Police in Lungi, Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom, have taken three people into custody following the alleged murder of Abdulram Omega Sesay, a prominent member of the All People’s Congress (APC) in Port Loko District. Omega, who served as the Public Relations Officer (PRO) for the APC in Port Loko District, was allegedly killed alongside Mary Sia Bangura. Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the motive or the identities of those detained. The incident occurred just hours after the UEFA Champions League final, according to earlier reports. Mr Sesay was discovered lifeless in a hotel room in Lungi. He was seen earlier that day, including in a widely circulated video showing him dressed in a blue vest and red cap. Mr Sesay was a Senior Lecturer at the University of Management and Technology and a PhD candidate at the University of Makeni. He was also an aspiring APC District Council Chairman in Port Loko District and was actively involved in community development and public service initiatives. APC Hon. Abdul Kargbo has appreciated the immediate response of the police and the Lungi Government Hospital. He has conveyed the remains of the deceased to Freetown for a postmortem. His passing has drawn reactions from colleagues, party members, and community residents, many of whom describe him as a committed public servant. Investigations are ongoing. The post Police Arrest Three Over Alleged Murder of APC Politician Abdulram Omega Sesay in Port Loko appeared first on Sierraloaded .
6/2/2026, 11:10:13 AM
Google: Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone at risk of losing millions of Dollars in EU foreign aid with possible military action - The Sierra Leone Telegraph
Sierra Leone at risk of losing millions of Dollars in EU foreign aid with possible military action The Sierra Leone Telegraph
6/2/2026, 10:48:31 AM
Google: Sierra Leone
Kallum Cesay receives international call-up - Salford City FC
Kallum Cesay receives international call-up Salford City FC
6/2/2026, 10:32:20 AM
Google: Sierra Leone
JAMB Supports Sierra Leone’s Move To Adopt Nigeria-Style Centralised University Admissions System - Arise News
JAMB Supports Sierra Leone’s Move To Adopt Nigeria-Style Centralised University Admissions System Arise News
6/2/2026, 10:22:54 AM
SierraLoaded News
IGP Sellu Reaffirms Police Commitment to Eradicating Human Trafficking
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu, received a delegation from Expertise France and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force Secretariat at the Senior Police Officers’ Mess, Kingtom, Freetown, on Friday, 29th May 2026. To discuss collaborative efforts aimed at combating human trafficking in Sierra Leone and across the wider Gulf of Guinea region. The meeting formed part of the official visit of Mr Modeste Krah, Regional Project Manager of the PROTECT Project at Expertise France, who visited Sierra Leone from 25th to 29th May 2026. Expertise France is the French Technical Development Agency currently implementing the regional PROTECT Project, which focuses on addressing human trafficking across the Gulf of Guinea region. Giving an overview of the programme, Mr Krah disclosed that the PROTECT Project for the Gulf of Guinea region is funded by the French Development Agency (AFD). He explained that the project covers five African countries, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Benin, Nigeria, and Togo, with additional cooperation expected from Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana. According to Mr Krah, the initiative seeks to strengthen the capacity of institutions to effectively combat human trafficking through prevention, victim protection, and enhanced regional and bilateral cooperation. He further noted that the programme focuses on strengthening the criminal justice system by supporting the processes of detection, investigation, prosecution, and conviction of trafficking offenders. He emphasised the importance of engaging key stakeholders, promoting community awareness, and improving support services for victims and survivors of human trafficking. Mr Krah also stated that the project aims to improve cross-border collaboration among participating countries through information sharing on border management, victim identification, and investigations linked to transnational organised crime. He highlighted data management as one of the major challenges affecting the fight against human trafficking across the region. He added that the programme intends to work closely with state institutions to ensure that gender considerations and survivor-centred approaches are fully integrated into anti-human trafficking interventions. Responding, IGP Sellu welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for the initiative. He noted that the Sierra Leone Police already have structures such as the Transnational Organised Crime Unit, INTERPOL, and the Family Support Unit, all of which are actively engaged in addressing issues relating to human trafficking. He emphasised that collaboration and coordination among institutions remain critical in combating human trafficking, describing the crime as a serious threat that requires collective action from all stakeholders. “Let there be stronger sanctions and penalties for anyone found involved in human trafficking,” IGP Sellu stated, while reaffirming the commitment of the Sierra Leone Police to work closely with national and international partners in the fight against the crime. He described the proposed training and capacity-building support for police officers as timely and necessary, particularly in strengthening officers’ skills in detection, identification, investigation, prosecution, and securing convictions in trafficking cases. IGP Sellu further reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Sierra Leone Police to collaborate with all relevant agencies and partners in achieving the common goal of eradicating human trafficking in Sierra Leone and across the sub-region. Finally, the delegation included Dehunge Shiaka, Executive Director of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force Secretariat; Umaru Fofanah, National Coordinator for Expertise France in Sierra Leone; and Modeste Krah, Regional Project Manager of the PROTECT Human Trafficking Project. The post IGP Sellu Reaffirms Police Commitment to Eradicating Human Trafficking appeared first on Sierraloaded .
6/2/2026, 10:01:18 AM