Now Flying to Freetown, Sierra Leone


In a significant development for travelers in Sierra Leone, Ethiopian Airlines has announced the commencement of its operations to Freetown, via Ouagadougou, effective May 31st.

This new route will connect the capital city to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s bustling metropolis, with flights scheduled from Addis Ababa on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Additionally, travelers from Freetown can embark on their journey back to Addis Ababa on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Situated at 32 Main Motor Road – Congo Cross, Ethiopian Airlines invites the public to visit their office and explore the myriad of travel opportunities available. Whether it is a leisurely escape or a business venture, their dedicated team is prepared to assist travelers in planning their trips with ease and expertise.

For inquiries and reservations, individuals can reach out to Ethiopian Airlines via phone at +232 33 071 071 or by visiting their official website at www.ethiopianairlines.com. With a wide array of destinations on offer, including Johannesburg, Beirut, Mumbai, Guangzhou, New York, London, Paris, Nairobi, and many more, Ethiopian Airlines opens doors to the world like never before.

Don’t miss this chance to broaden your horizons and embark on unforgettable journeys with Ethiopian Airlines. Book your tickets today and experience the convenience and comfort of traveling with one of Africa’s leading airlines.

Contact Information:
Address: 32 Main Motor Road, Congo Cross
Phone: +232 33 071 071
Website: www.ethiopianairlines.com






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Step-by-Step Guide to Make Freetown Terminal Payments With GTBank Internet Banking


To enhance customer convenience and streamline payment processes, Guarantee Trust Bank Sierra Leone (GTBank SL) has introduced step-by-step instructions for making Freetown Terminal payments through their Internet banking platform.

To initiate the payment process, customers are instructed to visit the official website of GTBank Sierra Leone at https://www.gtb.sl. Once on the website, users are prompted to click on the prominent “Big Green Button” to authenticate their access.

Upon successful authentication, customers are required to enter their unique customer ID and password. After entering the credentials, clicking on the “Green Button” allows users to access the various functionalities available on the platform.

For Freetown Terminal payments specifically, users are guided to click on the “payment & collection” section and then choose the “Freetown Terminal” option. This directs them to a new interface where they are prompted to click on “Make New Payment.”

On the new payment screen, customers are prompted to input essential details for their transaction. This includes the Invoice Number and the Customer Code. Once these details are correctly filled, users are instructed to click the “continue Button” to proceed with the payment.

The final step involves clicking on the “Pay” button to validate the payment. This action confirms the transaction and ensures that the payment is successfully processed through the GTBank Internet banking platform.

GTBank’s initiative to provide step-by-step instructions for Freetown Terminal payments aims to simplify the user experience and facilitate efficient transactions. By offering a user friendly interface and clear guidelines, the bank aims to empower its customers to seamlessly navigate the online banking platform and carry out transactions with confidence.

This move aligns with the broader industry trend of financial institutions leveraging technology to provide secure and accessible banking services. GTBank continues to demonstrate its commitment to customer satisfaction and innovation by implementing features that enhance the overall banking experience for its clientele.

Customers are encouraged to follow these step-by-step instructions to experience a hassle-free process when making Freetown Terminal payments through GTBank’s Internet banking platform. As technology continues to play a pivotal role in the banking sector, GTBank remains at the forefront, adapting and evolving to meet the changing needs of its customers.




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NP (SL) Limited Commissions New Aberdeen Road Fuel Station in Freetown


Sierra Leone’s leading  fuel distribution Company NP (SL) Limited  has Commissioned the NP Aberdeen Road Fuel Station on Monday 29th January, 2024.

The commissioning is geared towards expanding NP’s brand and market volume throughout Sierra Leone. The Company is focused on boosting partnerships with reputable individuals to enhance the supply of quality petroleum products to the general public.

A statement from NP’s Chief Executive Officer Kobi Walker, said many who are plying the Aberdeen Road  would not have thought that the new station is big enough to accommodate all the station modern equipment. He expressed appreciation working with one of their trusted Partners Hassan Sow, for selecting Np as a reliable Partner,

We want to send a message that it is possible for Sierra Leoneans to do business with Sierra Leoneans. We want to send a message that the only people who will nake this country are Sierra Leoneans. We want to send a message that when you empower the nation, your are empowering individuals,” he said.

Speaking on the benefits of the Partnership,  he revealed that their Partner, Hassan Sow has today created employment for at least 20 People and there is a guarantee that a minimum of 100 people will survive from this investment.

The CEO further expressed appreciation to all those who helped to make the Project a success assuring every liters bought from the said station will benefit Sierra Leoneans.

General Manager of Np, Saidu Mansaray emphasized that they are in a period where  only actions can speak. He pointed out that he believes they can realize their actions based on the testimonies they will be getting from customers accessing their petroleum Products. He assured that most of the things that are present in the new facilities, NP will replicate them across all Np stations including its strategic partners

Climaxing the event was the cutting of the tape by the CEO of NP-SL Ltd, Kobi Walker and the Proprietor, Hassan Sowe marking the official commissioning of the NP Aberdeen Road Fuel Station

NP enjoys over 60% market shares, arguably the most capitalized institution in Sierra Leone with an investment of over $30m to rehabilitate the finest and most sophisticated terminal in this part of the world.

The company has forged strategic Alliances and Partnerships with over 200 retail outlets all over the country as they currently supply over 80% of Ministries, Department and Agencies.

NP can boast of being the preferred supplier to virtually all the diplomatic missions in Sierra Leone and as if that is not enough NP is also on the trajectory of becoming the first company that will automate and digitize sales as they move towards cashless transactions and solutions.




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Elephant Bet Boosts Strand Base Organisation in Freetown


Elephant Bet, a respected betting company in Sierra Leone, has extended sponsorship to the Strand Base Organisation as part of their corporate social responsibility.

The sponsorship is for the upcoming carnival show on December 2nd at Big Waterloo Street in Freetown. The donations from the sponsorship include umbrellas, handbands, stickers, and t-shirts.

Prince Abdulai Kargbo, the chairman of the Strand Base Organisation, expressed gratitude for Elephant Bet’s support. He mentioned their previous attempts with other organizations that hadn’t yielded success. However, upon approaching Elephant Bet, they promptly answered their call and extended assistance. Kargbo pledged support to Elephant Bet and promised to utilize some items for advertising and promoting Elephant Bet.

In response, Vincent Moal, the Chief Commercial Officer of Elephant Bet, expressed their happiness in supporting community leaders and youth movements. Moal emphasized Elephant Bet’s commitment to the community and announced that this sponsorship is the first of many. He invited all their customers to support the Strand Base Organisation’s event.”




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Heavy Taxes Force Business Shutdowns in Freetown


Shops and businesses in Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown, have been forced to close their doors due to the burden of heavy taxes imposed by the government. The situation remains in limbo as it’s unclear when these businesses will be able to resume operations.

As part of the government’s efforts to staunch revenue leakages, the installation of electronic machines is being implemented to ensure that not a single cent is lost. This initiative aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s manifesto of blocking fiscal inefficiencies. Unfortunately, shop owners have placed blame on the National Revenue Authority (NRA) for exacerbating the harsh economic environment that they face daily.

Facing the brunt of this economic crunch, many traders have made the painful decision to leave Sierra Leone in search of more business-friendly climates in neighboring countries, with Liberia being the preferred destination to escape harassment and undue hindrances.

The situation has only worsened with a recent press release from the NRA, which imposes fines on taxpayers failing to integrate or complete the integration processes with the Electronic Cash Register (ECR) system. The press release warns that non-compliance will result in a penalty of 250,000,000 Leones and potential revenue loss assessments. The NRA, represented by Commissioner-General Ibrahim Brima Swarray, has given taxpayers a two-month grace period starting from October 20th of this year, during which the integration process can be facilitated for a minimal fee. Failure to meet this deadline will invoke penalties stipulated by law.

This shutdown marks the latest in a series of protests by businessmen in Freetown, with the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system in 2022 being a major point of contention. Under this system, electronic machines will record sales and collect taxes, primarily affecting various businesses such as supermarkets, hotels, restaurants, bars, and more. The business community has expressed deep discomfort with these changes, viewing them as a form of economic exploitation, particularly in these times of economic hardship.

In response, businesses have grumbled that the NRA’s insistence on using these machines is an unnecessary burden and a potential exploitation of their economic challenges. Failure to issue a GST receipt generated from ECR machines can result in severe penalties, including hefty fines or imprisonment. To keep business afloat, GST taxpayers are required to notify the NRA of any issues during the installation and operation of these machines within 24 hours. They must also regularize their registration information to obtain a new Taxpayer Identification Number and install the machines promptly.

The relationship between the government and traders has deteriorated significantly due to these measures, leading to a dire business environment, with businesses folding under the strain. Business owners are now calling on the government to protect their businesses rather than impose further hardships.






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AGL Acquires Two Electric Tractors For Freetown Terminal


African Global Logistics (AGL), the new owners of Freetown Terminal Limited, have announced a groundbreaking addition to their port operations by acquiring two state-of-the-art Gaussin Electric Terminal Tractors and a multi-charge station in Sierra Leone.

The APM75T HE Tractor is the result of a collaborative effort that brings together Gaussin’s expertise in handling vehicle production, Blue Solutions’ excellence in electric battery technology, and the vision of African Global Logistics. This 100% electric model is set to revolutionize port logistics, offering substantial energy savings while championing a carbon-free approach.

Moreover, it is expected to reduce maintenance costs, boost productivity, enhance safety standards, and provide unmatched driving comfort.

The introduction of this cutting-edge equipment aligns seamlessly with the Green Terminal labeling process initiated in June 2021 by the former owners, Bollore Transport and Logistics. This eco-conscious initiative aims to gradually reduce carbon emissions associated with container and vehicle transportation within port terminals.

This environmental commitment is comprehensive and grounded in an eight-pillar methodology, covering all aspects of sustainability in port operations. Importantly, the entire process, from project definition to rigorous auditing, has received validation from Bureau Veritas, a globally recognized leader in testing, inspection, and certification services.

The Gaussin Electric Terminal Tractors are designed to deliver annual fuel savings of up to 90%, streamlining operations with reduced maintenance requirements. Furthermore, they promise a rapid return on investment (ROI) when compared to traditional diesel tractors. Their construction is tailored to meet the exacting demands of port operations, ensuring seamless integration and exceptional performance.

AGL’s investment in these electric tractors underscores their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly port logistics. It positions Freetown Terminal as a leader in green initiatives, contributing to Sierra Leone’s environmental conservation efforts and promoting a cleaner, more efficient future for port operations in the country.




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NRA Monitors ECR Usage For GST-Registered Businesses in Freetown


The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has rolled out a substantial three-month initiative for monitoring Electronic Cash Registers (ECRs) in GST registered businesses within Freetown.

This extensive effort is geared towards improving compliance and precision in ECR receipt issuance, thereby enhancing the accuracy of GST returns.

The key objectives of this monitoring initiative encompass:

  • Identifying businesses that may not be complying with ECR machine usage.
  • Estimating the average number of periodic receipts issued by GST-registered businesses.
  • Observing voluntary ECR receipt issuance to customers by businesses.
  • Verifying the presence and operational status of ECR machines in various business premises.
  • Addressing challenges associated with ECR machine use from a business perspective.

In pursuit of these goals, the NRA will deploy its personnel to all GST registered businesses within the Municipality. Their primary task will be to gather data on the effective utilization of electronic cash registers by local businesses. The NRA extends an invitation to all business entities to collaborate and facilitate this critical endeavor by welcoming NRA staff during this period.

This comprehensive monitoring initiative highlights the NRA’s dedication to bolstering tax compliance and promoting precise financial reporting within Freetown’s business community.

The official notice reads below:




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Standard Chartered Bank Employees Protest in Freetown


Employees of Standard Chartered Bank gathered outside the bank’s headquarters on Thursday in Freetown, Sierra Leone to stage a protest, demanding their long-awaited terminal benefits.

This protest comes in the wake of a recent court ruling that ordered the bank to pay a substantial sum of $5.5 million (NLE 124,018,730.55) to its former employees.

On October 6th, 2023, the High Court of Sierra Leone, with Mrs. Justice Hannah Bonnie presiding, issued an order mandating Standard Chartered Bank to disburse the substantial sum within a seven-day timeframe. The court’s decision was met with a mixture of relief and jubilation by the bank’s former employees, who had been waiting for their terminal benefits for a considerable period.

However, Standard Chartered Bank is not taking the court’s ruling lightly. In response, the bank has sought leave to appeal the order, with their case being heard by Justice Jamesina King. The matter has been adjourned to Wednesday, October 18th, for further proceedings, leaving both the bank and its former employees in a state of uncertainty.

This legal battle has captured the attention of many, not only within the financial sector but also in Sierra Leone as a whole. The outcome of the appeal will have significant implications for the bank’s former employees, as well as set a precedent for similar cases in the country.

As the legal saga continues, employees remain determined in their quest for the much-needed terminal benefits, while Standard Chartered Bank’s legal team strategizes its appeal, ensuring that this case remains a focal point of discussion in Sierra Leone’s financial and legal circles.






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