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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Sierra Leone’s Cocoa Industry Ranks Third in Export Revenue


Cocoa has emerged as a major player in Sierra Leone’s economy, ranking third in export revenue generation, according to a recent government-private sector roundtable.

The event, held on January 18th, brought together key stakeholders to discuss the sustainable development and investment potential of the cocoa sector.

The roundtable, themed “Making Sierra Leone’s Cocoa Sector Investible and Sustainable,” highlighted the crucial role of collaboration in fostering policy changes, government partnerships, and unlocking the industry’s full potential.

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) estimates that cocoa generated over US$22 million in 2018, accounting for 11% of the nation’s total exports. However, a significant gap exists between current exports and the sector’s true potential, with an estimated US$30 million waiting to be tapped.

This promising outlook comes on the heels of the World Economic Forum’s 54th Annual Meeting, where the IFC emphasized the importance of transparency, consistency, and accountability in building trust and fostering investment. The meeting attracted over 100 representatives from various sectors, including governments, international organizations, and businesses.




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Bank of Sierra Leone Approves Mohamed Alhajie Samoura as Managing Director/CEO of UBA Sierra Leone


United Bank for Africa (UBA) Sierra Leone Limited is pleased to announce the approval of Mohamed Alhajie Samoura by the Central Bank of Sierra Leone as the substantive Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of UBA Sierra Leone.

The “No Objection” approval was received from the Bank of Sierra Leone on 30th January 2024 following the approval of his nomination by UBA Group Office and the UBA Sierra Leone Board of Directors in December 2023. Having served as the Acting MD/CEO since February last year, Mohamed is the first Sierra Leonean to attain such position in the bank since the bank started it operations in Sierra Leone in 2008.

Mr. Samoura is the 6th MD/CEO of UBA Sierra Leone after his predecessor, Usman Isiaka who is now serving the bank as Deputy MD/CEO of UBA New York.

Since he assumed the seat, Mr Samoura has continued to build on the legacies of his predecessors, he continues to double the figures in revenue, profitability, deposits, account opening and risk assets. He is very passionate about the UBA Brand and has been an exceptional promoter of Sierra Leonean businesses.

Until his appointment as the substantive Managing Director /Chief Executive Officer of UBA Sierra Leone, he was the Executive Director, Business Development in the bank, and Acting MD/CEO UBA Sierra Leone. Mohamed is a seasoned banker with close to two decades of working experience in Sierra Leone banking industry.

Mohamed has several accolades and most recently was named amongst the 100 Most Outstanding Executives in Sierra Leone by the Sierra Ovation Awards. During this short period and under his leadership, UBA Sierra Leone team won the 2023 prestigious Bank of the Year awards from the Banker’s Financial Times UK. Africa Branding Agency celebrating Banking Excellence in Sierra Leone/recognition of UBA Sierra Leone as Top 10 Financial Institutions & Mr. Samoura Top 5 Financial Leaders in Sierra Leone. African Ovation Awards for recognition of outstanding customer service, contribution, and commitment to social and economic development of Sierra Leone. A total of 10 Executive Management staff were awarded 2023 Sierra Leone Leadership Award honouring the Top 100 Emerging Leaders in Sierra Leone 2023. The Salone Times Newspaper one of the leading news agencies in Sierra Leone named him amongst the 10 Most Influential Sierra Leoneans in 2023. The bank also won Climate Positive Bank of the Year awards at the 7thEnvironmental Care Awards organised by Shout Climate Change Africa partnering with Sierra Leone Meteorological Agency and Freetown City Council and many more accolades on records.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and Political Science and a master’s degree in business administration and marketing.

Mr Samoura has a wealth of experience and understanding of the country’s corporate and institutional banking landscape.

The appointment of Mr. Samoura as Managing Director is in line with the UBA Group’s strategic focus on domesticating the bank’s governance, products and services to meet the local requirements of the host economy in all its 20 presence countries in Africa and further supporting human capital development across the continent as we expose the local staff to international standards and global best practices.

Operating in twenty African countries and in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France and the United Arab Emirates, United Bank for Africa provides retail, commercial and institutional banking services, leading financial inclusion and implementing cutting edge technology. UBA is one of the largest employers in the financial sector on the African continent, with over 30,000 employees group wide and serving over 37 million customers globally. UBA Sierra Leone currently has over 400,000 customers with the strong vision to be the undisputed leading and dominant financial services institution in the banking sector in Sierra Leone.




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Sierra Leonean Digital Osusu App, MiKashBoks Introduces Innovative Personal Savings Feature


MiKashBoks, the pioneering “Osusu Na Yu Phone” fintech app founded by Sierra Leonean tech entrepreneur Salton Massally, proudly announces the launch of its personal savings feature, now available to customers in Sierra Leone.

Expanding its commitment to financial empowerment, MiKashBoks enables users to effortlessly transfer funds from their mobile money to their Personal “Mi Cashbox” wallets. This new feature allows users to grow their savings and earn interest securely, enhancing their financial stability and independence.

Key Benefits of Individual Savings Feature:

1. Secure Growth: Safely increase savings with a dedicated “Mi Cashbox” wallet.
2. Set goals and track your progress
3. Earn Interest: Benefit from earning interest on saved funds, contributing to financial growth.
4. Ease of Use: Transfer funds seamlessly from your mobile money to your Individual “Mi Cashbox” accounts.
5. Access to your money when you need it – no need to queue in a bank!

Since its August 2023 inception, MiKashBoks has grown rapidly, adding 1500 customers in its first 90 days.

MiKashBoks recently obtained its financial services licence from the Bank of Sierra Leone and has also stated its commitment to supporting financial literacy in the country.

“The introduction of ‘Mi Cashbox’ for personal savings is a game-changer in our mission to enhance financial empowerment in Sierra Leone. This feature allows our users to grow their savings securely and offers the added benefit of earning interest, contributing to their financial wellness. We remain committed to innovating in ways that support and expand financial inclusion, providing our users with robust tools to build their financial futures.” – Salton Massally, Founder, MiKashBoks

For Sierra Leone residents, you can Download MiKashBoks on the Google Play Store. For non-smartphone users, save and receive payouts using the SMS/USSD shortcode *352#.




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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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RCBank Honored with National Education Champions Award for Outstanding Contributions to Sierra Leone’s Education and Development


Rokel Commercial Bank, standing as the leading commercial bank in the nation, is swiftly gaining early recognition in 2024 for its substantial contributions to education and the overall development of Sierra Leone.

The bank’s remarkable efforts in supporting education and community development have not gone unnoticed, marking a commendable start to the year.

The Bank was awarded for its eminent contributions to the educational sector over the past five years on the 27th January, 2024 during the National Education Champions Awards – Dinner & Awards Night at the Hotel Cabenda Signal Hill Freetown by the Mamie Mariama Justice Ganawah Education Foundation.

Additionally, the Foundation presented a plaque award of Significant Contributor in the Education Sector to the Managing Director & CEO of RCBank, which was received by the Head of Public Relations Unit (Aruna Dumbuya) on behalf of the MD.

The keynote speaker, Mr. Alhaji Allieu Sesay is an accomplished Policy Analyst, Economic Management Specialist, Tax & Customs Expert, Macroeconomist, and Econometrician with over twenty-five (25) years of professional experience in research, policy analysis, public policy, management, economic and public financial strategist.

Mr. Sesay recognized the good work of the foundation and commended Mr. Justice Ganawah for thriving on the ideologies of his mother. Mr. Sesay noted the importance of education and encouraged all to support the philanthropic work of the foundation; as the foundation’s concept is in line with the achievement of quality and sustainable education and meeting Universal Global Objectives for poverty reduction and sustainable development in education.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Justice Ganawah – of the Foundation commented on the focus, mission and vision of the foundation, stating that their work is geared towards achieving quality and sustainable education for the less privileged and hardworking students in Sierra Leone.

‘Hence Mamie Mariama Justice Ganawah Education Foundation (MaMJGEF) is here for the less privileged and hard-working students to acquire high-quality education and to ensure high standards in the educational system in Sierra Leone, he stated’. He apprised that their vision is to eradicate illiteracy in Sierra Leone by creating an educational platform that ensures the highest standards of an inclusive system.

Commenting on the background and purpose of the foundation, Mr. Ganawah stated that the foundation is built on the legacy of the late Mamie Mariama Ganawah of blessed memory, who was someone that had passion for high-quality education.

The Mamie Mariama Justice Ganawah Education Foundation (MaMJGEF) is raising awareness among members to take active roles in improving the nationwide problem of access to quality education and its importance in the country. The foundation’s purpose is to work with a mission of informing vulnerable communities about literacy issues in the country.

The impressive honor awarded by The Mamie Mariama Justice Ganawah Education Foundation (MaMJGEF) reflects the Bank’s outstanding performance and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) services to the people of Sierra Leone.

Dr. Gilpin’s Humanitarian Foundation (GEED) maintains similar ideologies and creeds to that of The Mamie Mariama Justice Ganawah Education Foundation (MaMJGEF) to consider the underprivileged and destitute.

RCBank – The Bank of choice!!!!!




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QNET Wins 3 Awards at 2023 Marcomm Awards


QNET’s insightful YouTube video showcasing the impact of its financial literacy programme, Fingreen, has been honoured with three prestigious gold award at the 2023 MarCom Awards. Titled “FinGreen: Seeding Financial Literacy for a Brighter Future,” the video shines a light on QNET’s FinGreen initiative, a peer-to-peer educational program designed to improve financial understanding in underprivileged communities.

The video opens with a striking statistic: only one in three adults worldwide possess financial literacy. It then elaborates on how FinGreen contributes to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals by addressing inequality and promoting decent work and economic growth opportunities.

“FinGreen is tailored for women and youth in emerging economies, “says Malou Caluza, CEO of QNET. “Historically, women have had limited access to financial services compared to men. Although mobile banking and payment platforms have recently improved accessibility, many still lack the essential knowledge for making informed financial decisions.”

According to experts at the International Federation of Accountants, individuals who lack financial literacy are more vulnerable to fraud, less likely to save their money, more likely to have a large amount of debt, and are at a higher risk of bankruptcy.

Ms. Abass Bushira, a young woman leading an agricultural venture testified: “The FinGreen training felt like it was designed with me in mind. The curriculum covered topics such as budgeting, investment strategies, debt management, banking, financial planning and others.”

Launched initially in Turkey and Nigeria in 2022, and expanded to Ghana in 2023, FinGreen primarily targets women and youth in developing regions. The FinGreen programme partners with local experts to assess and identify underserved communities that could most benefit from greater education and inclusion. In Ghana, more than one thousand young people and women were trained in the cities of Accra and Ho.

According to Michael Andoh, a student of the Accra Technical University, “I have learnt how to achieve personal financial discipline and how to carefully prepare a simple budget for my personal expenses.”

Caluza believes the MarCom award underscores the video’s success in communicating FinGreen’s mission of individual empowerment for community upliftment.

The MarCom Awards is a premier international creative competition. FinGreen: Seeding Financial Literacy for a Brighter Future was one of 6,500 entries from more than 47 countries submitted this year. The video clinched a gold trophy for outstanding achievement.

Encouraged by FinGreen’s success in Nigeria, Ghana, and Turkey with more than 3200 people empowered, QNET will soon expand the programme to Morocco. Readers can view the winning video here or learn more about FinGreen here.

About QNET

QNET is a prominent lifestyle and wellness company that uses a direct selling business model to offer a wide selection of exclusive products that enable individuals to embrace a healthier, more balanced life. Established in 1998, QNET marks 25 years of making an impact around the world through its product offerings and e-commerce-powered business model, in 2023.

QNET proudly holds memberships in the Direct Selling Association in several countries, the Hong Kong Health Food Association, the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore, and more. QNET is also active in several global sports sponsorships including in its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), underscoring its commitment to excellence and global reach.

To learn more about QNET and its mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind, please visit www.qnet.net.




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Sierra Leoneans Express Concern Over Rejection of Five-Cent Coin by Bus Drivers, Businesses


Sierra Leoneans are voicing their concerns and demanding clarification on the functionality of the Sierra Leone 5 cent coin, commonly referred to as “five block.” Many citizens are experiencing difficulties as business establishments, including drivers and merchants, are increasingly refusing to accept these coins, asserting that they are impractical for transactions within the country.

In an interview conducted by Sieraloaded, citizens shared their frustrations and sought answers from the authorities. Susan Wright, a student at FBC University in Sierra Leone, expressed concern about drivers and their apprentices consistently rejecting the five-cent coins. She urged the Sierra Leone Bank Governor to provide an explanation regarding the significance of these coins and where they are intended to be used in the country.

On the other hand, Abu Sesay, a businessman operating in the central business district of Freetown, contested the claims made by customers. He argued that customers themselves are refusing to accept coins as change, leading to a situation where many business owners, in turn, are reluctant to collect these coins from their patrons.

This growing issue appears to be a two-sided problem, with both customers and businesses contributing to the reluctance surrounding the acceptance of five-cent coins. As a result, a considerable number of citizens find themselves grappling with a limited usability of these coins in everyday transactions.

The plea from citizens, especially students like Susan Wright, highlights the urgency for an official explanation from the Sierra Leone Bank Governor. Addressing the concerns raised by the public and providing guidance on the appropriate use of the five-cent coins could help alleviate the prevailing confusion and foster a smoother circulation of these coins in the economy.

The situation emphasizes the need for effective communication between monetary authorities and the public to ensure a harmonious flow of currency in daily transactions. As the discussions around the functionality of the five-cent coin continue, it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to the citizens’ demands and work towards resolving the challenges surrounding the acceptance of these coins in Sierra Leone.




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Orange Fighting Fraud, Upholds Commitment to Its Zero Compliance to Corruption


In recent times, the Management Orange Mobile Money Finance SL Ltd issued a Disclaimer disassociating itself from Super Advertis an online business platform . According to the disclaimer, Orange Mobile Money Finance revealed that they are not in partnership with Super Advertis nor have any contractual dealings or in any way associated with the business/company.

The said disclaimer has left many Sierra Leoneans in shocked at home as it came like a lump in the throats of many who have invested their money on the Online Platform realizing that they have been defrauded by Super Advertis. The online business platform was reported to have defrauded Sierra Leoneans of a staggering 9 billion Leones.

Meanwhile, recent public notices by the Bank of Sierra Leone and the Financial Intelligence have vindicated Orange ‘s decision to disassociate itself from Super Advertis .

The Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) issued a strong warning on the 5th January against the online entity called “SUPER ADVERTIS” that is illegally soliciting investments through mobile money platforms.

The BSL further emphasized that it has not licensed SUPER ADVERTIS for any financial activity, and engaging with them for investments poses a real risk to the public’s finances.

According to the BSL’s public notice, SUPER ADVERTIS appears to be enticing individuals to invest in a secretive financial scheme using mobile money platforms, which involves accepting deposits from the public. However, the BSL clarifies that “SUPER ADVERTIS” operates without the necessary license, making their operations illegal and potentially fraudulent.

The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), an institution dedicated to combating financial crime, also initiated an investigation, in collaboration with key stakeholders, into the suspected unlawful activities of Super Advertis.

This entity has been using various mobile money platforms in Sierra Leone to accumulate deposits from the public, falsely presenting itself as an investment opportunity. Super Advertis stands accused of engaging in unlicensed and unregulated financial services, particularly utilizing mobile money agents to amass supposed investment funds.

This alleged scam, resembling a “PONZI SCHEME,” operates by reimbursing existing investors from contributions made by new investors, rather than generating legitimate profits from a lawful business. Investors are misled into believing that profits stem from genuine business operations, while they actually originate from new investors’ deposits.

In a statement made available to Sierraloaded, Orange revealed the deceptive tactics employed by Super Advertis scammers. The company clarified that unauthorized agents were illicitly collecting funds on behalf of the fraudulent platform. Immediate action was taken upon discovering these deceitful transactions, with Orange Sierra Leone promptly blocking the accounts of these unauthorized agents.

The mobile company emphasized that these agents lacked the authorization to engage in such financial transactions, and their accounts were suspended to prevent further fraudulent activities.
They were using our agents to collect funds on their behalf. These agents are not authorized to perform these types of transactions. When we got alert of these fraudulent transactions, we immediately blocked the accounts of these agents.” the mobile network company said.

Orange Sierra Leone took a proactive approach by reporting the issue to the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) and is now awaiting the next steps in the investigation.

According to Orange Sierra Leone, the blocked accounts do not show any clear indication that the embezzled funds are directly related to Super Advertis transactions. The company clarified that the primary reason for blocking the accounts was to curtail the involvement of the suspended agents. Interestingly, all attempts to reach these agents have been unsuccessful, adding another layer of mystery to the unfolding situation.

As consumers dash through investing their money online, fraudsters remain focused. Through its strong compliance measures, Orange was able to detect early signs of an uptick in fraud attempts on Sierra Leoneans.

Realizing the devastating impact of fraud as a trusted Partner, Orange gives everyone the keys to a responsible digital World. Trust is at the heart of Orange purpose and the company’s ethics and compliance approach contributes to this trust by promoting a culture of integrity with no room for corruption of any kind, which cannot be accepted.

Orange fraud and anti-corruption policy is proactive as the company is committed to conducting their business with transparency and integrity in Sierra Leone. Orange stringent anti-corruption policy applies to all employees, managers, and directors, as well as anyone who acts on their behalf.






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Super Advertis Makeni Manager Speaks on Their Mode of Operations


A viral video making the rounds on social media has revealed an interview with a man who identified himself as Professor Barrie, Manager of Super Advertis at Makeni City Plaza explaining the Company’s Mode of Operations.

Manager Barrie said in the Video that surfaced online that he had gone through the ranks of the company before attaining the position of being a Manager. He described the company as an Online Marketing Company serving as an Intermediary between the people and the Ecommerce- websites. He confirmed that there are many Ecommerce websites online like the Alibaba, Amazon and they as end users go to Purchase these goods.

Super Advertis came as an intermediary to advert the goods of these Ecommerce websites by Clicking google will ranked it as search engine optimization. So Super Advertis develop a system where people will make money from their clicks.’ he said.

Responding to questions on the legality of their operations, Manager Barrie revealed that the Company has more offices in Sierra Leone adding that it is legally registered with the government of Sierra Leone. He confirmed in the said video that these are evidences to show the company is here to stay.

The newly introduced online business Company shut down its services to its customers on Tuesday 2nd January 2024 after the company said all of its funds were frozen by mobile money operator, Orange.

The company also directed its users and partners to go to Rakuten, which it stated is its other branch, to retrieve all their money. But shortly after, Rakuten denied any relationship with Super Advertis.

The development comes a few days after mobile network operator, Orange disassociated itself of any partnership with Super Advertis saying it does not have any contractual dealings or in any way associated with the business/company.

The Bank of Sierra Leone, in a public notice issued on January 5th, 2024, categorically stated that “Super Advertis” had not been granted a license to conduct any financial activity. The online-based entity was accused of enticing individuals to invest in a covert financial scheme through mobile money platforms. The Bank’s notice served as a stern warning to the public, urging them to refrain from engaging in any financial transactions with Super Advertis due to its illegal activities.

Subsequently, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) announced on January 4th, 2024, that it was actively investigating Super Advertis for suspected unlawful activities, referring to it as a potential “Ponzi scheme.” The FIU highlighted the collaboration with mobile money service providers, including Orange Money, in restricting access to the suspected fraudsters’ accounts and cooperating with relevant authorities in ongoing investigations.




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