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NP (SL) Limited Sets the Record Straight Amid Baseless Allegations


NP (SL) Limited, Sierra Leone’s premier petroleum marketing company, has long stood as a pillar of reliability, excellence and national economic growth. With a track record spanning decades, the company has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to operational efficiency, customer satisfaction and sustainable business practices. Its prominence in the oil marketing sector is not the result of political affiliations but rather the outcome of strategic investments, sound managerial decisions and a steadfast dedication to service delivery.

As the largest and most reputable oil marketing entity in Sierra Leone, NP (SL) Limited has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s petroleum industry. It has built a vast and efficient supply chain, ensuring fuel availability across the nation, even in challenging economic climates. The company’s ability to maintain stability within the market has been instrumental in preventing supply disruptions and mitigating economic shocks related to fuel shortages.

One of NP (SL) Limited’s defining characteristics is its commitment to fostering mutually beneficial partnerships with fuel dealers and station owners. Over the years, the company has made substantial investments in dealer infrastructure, including the provision of fuel pumps, spare parts and maintenance services. These initiatives have enabled countless petroleum entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, with many expanding their operations from single fuel stations to multiple outlets. Such success stories underscore NP (SL)’s role as a catalyst for business growth and development in the sector; one that is not bent on exploitation.

In line with its commitment to market stability and equitable partnerships, NP (SL) Limited has continually assessed and adjusted its pricing and commission structures to support its dealers/resellers. The company recently reviewed its commission framework, introducing an increase that balances the interests of dealers/ resellers with the need for sustainable operations.

This adjustment reaffirms NP (SL)’s responsiveness to stakeholder concerns while ensuring the long-term viability of the business. However, demands for excessively high commissions must be weighed against the operational realities of the petroleum industry, where distribution costs, transporter fees and regulatory obligations must be met to sustain a stable market.

Despite a competitive landscape where a new entrant has introduced unsustainable pricing strategies, NP (SL) Limited has remained steadfast in upholding industry best practices. The company has always welcomed fair competition, recognizing that a healthy market environment benefits consumers and industry stakeholders alike. However, competition should be based on sustainable business models rather than short-term financial incentives that risk destabilizing the sector.

Understanding the concerns of various stakeholders, NP (SL) Limited continues to engage in meaningful dialogue with resellers and dealers. The company remains committed to resolving any outstanding issues amicably, fostering a collaborative environment where all parties can thrive. Through constructive engagement and industry leadership, NP (SL) is exploring ways to ensure that its partners remain profitable while the company continues to provide the high-quality services that customers have come to expect.

As an indigenous company deeply invested in Sierra Leone’s economic progress, NP (SL) Limited remains dedicated to maintaining its reputation for excellence. It will continue to operate transparently, uphold the highest industry standards and contribute to national development by ensuring a stable and efficient petroleum sector. In doing so, NP (SL) reaffirms its role as a trusted partner in the country’s economic journey, committed to service, growth, and sustainability.



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Rokel Commercial Bank’s Sim Korpor Unit Introduces EDSA Token Vending Service


Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) has announced a new initiative to enhance the accessibility and convenience of purchasing electricity tokens through its Sim Korpor Mobile & Online Banking platform.

In an official communication, Kezia Salankole, Head of the Simkorpor Unit at RCBank, informed team members about the availability of EDSA token vending as a key feature on the platform.

The initiative aims to promote the bank’s digital services while offering customers a seamless way to purchase their monthly electricity tokens directly through Sim Korpor.

To facilitate the process, customers are required to provide the following details:

Name

Meter Number

Account Number

Desired Amount

The bank has also extended the service to allow branch-wide monthly purchases, enabling multiple users within an organization to streamline their electricity payments.

Customers and institutions interested in utilizing this service are encouraged to submit their details to the Sim Korpor Unit to get started by contacting +23278222501 or +23277222501



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Sierra Leone Auctions NLe633 Million in Government Securities


The Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) has successfully auctioned NLe 633 million in government securities, a move aimed at bolstering the nation’s economy and funding critical development projects.

Awoko reports that the auction, held on February 6, 2025, offered a variety of treasury bills and bonds, catering to both short-term and long-term investment strategies.

The offering included short-term Treasury Bills (T-bills) with maturities ranging from 91 days to one year. Specifically, the auction featured:

NLe 4.47 million in 91-day T-bills, maturing in May 2025
NLe 12.46 million in 182-day T-bills, maturing in August 2025
NLe 482.05 million in 364-day T-bills, maturing in February 2026

For investors seeking longer-term opportunities, the BSL also made available:

NLe 60 million in 2-year Treasury Bonds (T-bonds), maturing in February 2027
NLe 74.1 million in 3-year Treasury Bonds (T-bonds), maturing in February 2028

This diversified portfolio of securities was designed to attract a broad range of investors, from individuals to institutions, while simultaneously providing the government with the necessary capital to finance its programs and meet its financial obligations.

Government securities are a key instrument for economic management, enabling governments to fund infrastructure development, social programs, and other essential initiatives. The NLe 633 million raised through this auction demonstrates the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth.

To ensure widespread participation, the BSL facilitated access to these investment opportunities through commercial banks and discount houses, making them available to a broader segment of the public.



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NIB and NRA Partner to Streamline Business Registration and Boost Revenue Collection in Sierra Leone


The National Investment Board (NIB) and the National Revenue Authority (NRA) have announced a collaborative partnership aimed at simplifying business registration and improving revenue collection processes in Sierra Leone.

The initiative, discussed at a meeting held on February 3, 2025, reflects the government’s commitment to fostering a more attractive investment climate and driving economic growth.

Dr. Edward Hinga Sandy, Executive Director of the NIB, emphasized the significance of the partnership, linking the establishment of the NIB to President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for a stronger investment landscape. He highlighted ongoing government efforts to create a “one-stop shop” for business registration, facilitation, and retention, designed to streamline operations for investors while ensuring compliance with national regulations.



Dr. Sandy stressed the importance of collaboration with the NRA in improving the business environment, noting that a more efficient registration and revenue collection system would attract increased investment, encourage compliance, and generally create a more business-friendly atmosphere.

Echoing this sentiment, Mrs. Jeneba J. Bangura, Commissioner-General of the NRA, pledged the authority’s full support for the joint initiative. She underscored the importance of seamless revenue collection through automation and assured the NIB of the NRA’s commitment to enhancing the efficiency of the process.



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NP [SL] Limited Expands Reach with New Petrol Station in Sorogbema Chiefdom, Jendema


To improve access to fuel, particularly in remote areas, NP SL Limited officially inaugurated a new petrol station, Abyei Gas Station, along the Jendema Highway in Sorogbema Chiefdom, Pujehun District.

The facility, owned and financed by Lahai Sandy Koroma, a development-driven native of Sorogbema, adds to his existing petrol stations in Bo City and Zimmi.

The grand opening, held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, was attended by key stakeholders, including traditional leaders, security personnel, representatives from the Drivers Union, the Bike Riders Union (BRU), youth groups, the media, and other community members.



Welcoming the gathering, Chiefdom Speaker Augustin Jah Zoker expressed gratitude for the investment, emphasizing the significance of the station in addressing long-standing fuel shortages in the region. He called on NP to maintain its reputation for quality service, assuring that the community would make good use of the facility.

Representing the CEO, The Sales Manager Ing. Vandy Bockarie praised the people of Sorogbema for their support and acknowledged the Gone community for providing land for the project.

He announced that Gone and Jendema would now be recognized as a city and assured residents that the 45,000-liter capacity station would significantly ease fuel challenges. He further noted that the station would operate daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM with standard pricing and professional service.

 

On behalf of the Mano River Union Division Police, ASP Michael A. Vanboy, the Support Officer, welcomed the development, pledging to provide security for the facility and ensure its protection from criminal activities.

The Town Chief of Gone, Chief Mohamed Keiwei, extended appreciation to Lahai Sandy Koroma and the landholding family for their role in making the project a reality. He assured that the community would safeguard the facility for the benefit of all.

From the transport sector, Drivers Union Chairman William Peal highlighted the previous difficulties in accessing petrol, stating that the new station would greatly ease their burden. Similarly, Bike Riders Union Chairman Lahai Zoker urged the station’s staff to uphold high service standards to maintain NP’s reputation.

The Mamie Queen of Sorogbema Chiefdom, Madam Tata Koroma, expressed gratitude for the investment, noting that women in the chiefdom welcomed such progress. However, she called on Mr. Lahai Sandy Koroma to extend support toward women’s empowerment, as many women in the area continue to face economic hardships.

Youth leader Jonney Rogers also commended the initiative, acknowledging that it has already created job opportunities for young people. He urged that more employment opportunities be provided for the youth in Sorogbema.

The opening of Abyei Gas Station marks a significant step in NP’s continued expansion, ensuring that fuel accessibility will no longer remain a challenge in Sorogbema Chiefdom.



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First Lady Hands Over Orange Digital School Kits to Ansarul Primary School in Kono


On Monday, January 27, 2025, the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, officially launched Orange Foundation Sierra Leone’s Orange Digital School Kits initiative.

The event, held at the Ansarul Islamic Primary School for Girls in Kono District her alma mater was a significant step toward enhancing the digital learning experience for young pupils in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, alongside Orange Sierra Leone CEO Sekou Amadou Bah, ceremoniously handed over a comprehensive set of digital school kits to the school. This donation aims to foster technological literacy and equip pupils with critical skills to thrive in a digital era.



The ceremony, hosted in the school hall, attracted high-profile attendees, including the Mayor of Koidu City, Komba Mathew Sam; Orange Sierra Leone General Secretary Danetta Younge; Head of Orange Digital Centre Finnah Mariama Stevens; as well as school authorities, community stakeholders, and local residents.

The donated digital kits comprised cutting-edge tools such as tablets, Raspberry Pi devices, laptops, Bluetooth speakers, projectors, screens, headsets, extension cables, power banks, and solar panels. These resources are tailored to enhance digital literacy, providing students with access to a tech-driven education.

In her remarks, Finnah Mariama Stevens emphasized the need for technological tools to drive innovation and bridge the digital divide. “From Freetown to Bo, Kenema, Kailahun, Pujehun, and now Kono, the Orange Foundation is ensuring that every child in Sierra Leone has access to the technological tools essential for today’s world,” she said.

She underscored Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to the government’s human capital development agenda and its focus on empowering young girls through access to digital resources.

Addressing the gathering, Sekou Amadou Bah, CEO of Orange Sierra Leone underscored the transformative potential of the Digital School Kits in promoting education and empowering pupils through technology.

“These kits are electronic libraries designed to provide educational content to schools with limited or no internet access,” he noted “Currently, 16 countries, including Sierra Leone, have benefited from this program, with 1,400 schools and 500,000 pupils gaining access to digital education tools.”

Over the past three years, Orange Sierra Leone has donated 35 Digital School Kits, impacting over 10,000 pupils nationwide. The initiative also offers schools the opportunity to participate in the prestigious Wiki Challenge, an international competition organized by Orange Group. Last year, a Sierra Leonean school, Dele Preparatory School, won a €5,000 prize for their article on “Krio Print Dress.”

Bah urged pupils and teachers to handle the equipment with care and fully utilize them to enhance learning. “With technology, we can expand our horizons and enable new ways of easy learning. These tools are not just about access but about empowering young minds to explore and innovate,” he stated.

He reaffirmed Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to supporting the government’s human capital development agenda through initiatives that align with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for the country.

His Worship, Mayor Komba Mathew Sam, expressed his gratitude to Orange Sierra Leone for selecting the Ansarul Islamic Primary School for Girls as a beneficiary of the initiative. He praised Orange Sierra Leone for bringing such innovative resources to his district and urged the school to utilize the digital kits to their fullest potential.

Reflecting on his own educational journey, Mayor Sam stated, “During my school days, I did not have the privilege of learning about computers until my college years. These young girls are fortunate to have this opportunity at such an early stage, and I hope they make the most of it.”

Headmistress Zainab Bah also commended the Orange Foundation for their generosity and expressed appreciation to Dr. Fatima Maada Bio for gracing the event. “We are committed to making the most of these resources to enhance our pupils’ learning experience and ensure their sustainability,” she assured.

In her keynote address, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio commended Orange Foundation Sierra Leone for its commitment to empowering education and emphasized the importance of equipping pupils with the skills necessary to thrive in the digital age. The initiative underscores the collaborative efforts to bridge the digital divide and promote educational development across the nation.

The First Lady of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, expressed deep gratitude to her former school, crediting it for shaping her into the woman she is today. Dr. Bio highlighted the importance of technology in modern education, emphasizing that the digital kits would provide the pupils access to the tools needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving, tech-driven world.

Dr. Bio encouraged the pupils to aspire beyond societal expectations, urging them to embrace science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses to position themselves as leaders in Sierra Leone and beyond. She underscored the importance of breaking barriers, discouraging early marriages, and striving for careers in leadership and innovation.

She urged the school to make effective use of the digital kits, emphasizing the importance of embracing technology in an increasingly digital world. “Today, let us celebrate Orange. I want all the pupils here to stand up and say, ‘Thank you, Orange.’ We promise to make good use of this facility and this opportunity.

She also expressed her gratitude to Orange Sierra Leone for the digital school kits, praising their efforts to empower girls across the country. “May God bless Orange Sierra Leone, elevate them, and help them grow from strength to strength,” she concluded.

The event concluded with the formal handover of the Digital School Kits to the school administration, symbolizing a new chapter in the pupils’ education journey. This initiative is expected to inspire a brighter future through the integration of technology into learning, paving the way for innovation and progress in Sierra Leone.



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ITC Launches READY Salone Project to Train 3,000 Sierra Leonean Youth For The Digital Economy


Young entrepreneurs in Sierra Leone are set to sharpen their digital skills with the launch of the ‘Sierra Leone: Empowering Youth through Digital Technologies’ (READY Salone) project by the International Trade Centre (ITC).

Funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and implemented over four years, the READY Salone project will support youth, young entrepreneurs, business support organizations, tech hubs and policymakers to harness opportunities in the digital economy. The initiative places a strong emphasis on young women and persons with disabilities.

The launch event will be attended by key government officials, including Hon. Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, Chief Minister; Hon. Ms. Haja Salimatu Bah, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation; Hon. Mr. Mohamed Orman Bangura, Minister of Youth Affairs; and Hon. Mr. Ibrahim Alpha Sesay, Minister of Trade and Industry. Over 100 youth and key stakeholders from the business and tech communities are also expected to participate.



To mark the project launch, there will be a signing of a memorandum of understanding by ITC Executive Director, Ms. Pamela Coke-Hamilton; the Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, Hon. Dr. David Moinina Sengeh; and KOICA Nigeria, Deputy Country Director, Mr. Baik Ki-Hyun.

Four interventions underpin the READY Salone project: enhancing digital literacy among youth; boosting entrepreneurial competitiveness through upskilling; strengthening tech-focused business support services; and developing inclusive national digital strategies. More information about the project can be found in its flyer here.

Through the project, 3,000 youth and 250 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises will gain access to digital skills and business opportunities.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and the Ministry of Communications, Technology and Innovation are the main government partners for READY Salone.

Interested youth and young entrepreneurs may express their interest in the project by completing this form.

About the International Trade Centre

ITC is the joint agency of the World Trade Organization and the United Nations. ITC assists small and medium-sized enterprises in developing and transition economies to become more competitive in global markets, thereby contributing to sustainable economic development within the frameworks of the Aid-for-Trade agenda and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

For more information, visit www.intracen.org.



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Paying in Leones, Spending in Dollars


A while ago, I was swiping through WhatsApp statuses on my phone, and I came across a particular status that read, “Sierra Leoneans are paid in Leones but made to pay for goods and services in the equivalent of the dollar. There’s a huge structural disconnect! This is wartime!” This status epitomizes the palpable frustration marinating among many Sierra Leoneans.

A dangling economic dilemma has emerged, crippling low-income earners in their struggle to make ends meet. While many citizens are paid in the LEONE currency, they are often required to pay for goods and services in US dollars or its equivalent. This structural abnormality has persisted for too long, and the government has yet to address it. This situation has far-reaching implications for the country’s economy and the daily lives of its people.

The depreciation of the Leone has been a persistent issue, worsened by inflation and economic mismanagement. Banks and other financial institutions have allowed certain goods and services to be paid for in foreign currencies, primarily the US dollar. This move has further weakened the local currency and created a dependency on foreign currencies for essential transactions.
In an attempt to address these structural issues, the Government of Sierra Leone introduced new legal tenders and redenomination of the Leones, along with the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Despite these measures, the Leone currency has continued to lose value, and the government has had to resort to allowing the use of foreign currencies for certain transactions.



Compounding this problem is the massive promotion and demand for the use of dollars over the Leone in most transactions, especially for paying house rents and the like. This situation has stifled the financial growth of many struggling households, preventing them from affording quality lifestyles. The Leone has a lower value compared to the dollar. Currently, the Xe Currency Converter values 100 USD at 2,275,991.7 New Leones, while Western Union values 100 USD at 2378.00 New Leones. These exchange rates could pass for official transactions. However, the black market values 100 USD at about 2400.00 New Leones thereabout.

The dilemma for those who are paid in Leones and required to spend in dollars is akin to testing deep waters with both feet. It is too risky and demotivating for low-income earners, particularly public sector workers. They barely survive by the skin of their teeth daily. The dollar has repeatedly shown a higher value over the Leone, giving those who earn in dollars greater purchasing power, unlike Leone earners who are caught in an economic struggle.

This structural pandemonium has become evident as the government has overlooked or underestimated the burden many Sierra Leoneans carry by not unifying a single exchange rate to trade on and monitor the prices of goods and services. A colleague exclaimed that “there is hardly an official rate set by our central bank, including an interbank rate (for banks to lend to one another), a rate for import and export, a rate for international money transfer companies, and a black market rate.”

With this expression of the obvious, every right-thinking Sierra Leonean, whether at home or abroad, should be concerned. To be clear, no right-thinking Sierra Leonean is asking the government to provide their daily bread but to create an enabling environment where citizens can be economically capable of handling their bills without being robbed by the dollarising syndrome.

Welcome to 2025, and wishing you a LEONE spending year!



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Air Sierra Leone Announces Launch of Freetown-Lagos Route


Air Sierra Leone, a proud symbol of Sierra Leone’s resurgence, is excited to announce the launch of its scheduled Freetown-Lagos route.

Beginning January 22, 2025, this service will operate three times a week: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, connecting Freetown to Lagos and establishing a critical link within the West African region.

The launch of the Freetown-Lagos route marks the first milestone in Air Sierra Leone’s ambitious regional route plan, which aims to enhance connectivity across the West African coast. This development underscores the airline’s commitment to fostering economic growth, strengthening regional ties, and creating seamless travel opportunities for its customers.



Speaking about this milestone, Edgard D.Lacle, General Manager of Air Sierra Leone, said: “The launch of our Freetown-Lagos route is a significant step forward in our mission to establish Air Sierra Leone as a bridge connecting Sierra Leone with the rest of Africa.

“This route not only symbolizes progress for our airline industry but also for Sierra Leone as we work to promote trade, tourism, and cultural exchange in the region. We are proud to offer our customers a reliable and comfortable travel experience, setting the standard for excellence in West African aviation.”

Passengers on the Freetown-Lagos route can expect world-class service, convenience, and a safe journey aboard Air Sierra Leone’s modern fleet. As the airline looks to expand its network, this new route exemplifies its dedication to becoming “Your Gateway to West Africa” and positioning Sierra Leone as a key hub in the region.

For bookings and more information, visit www.flysierraleone.com.

About Air Sierra Leone

Air Sierra Leone is a fresh, dynamic airline poised to redefine air travel within West Africa and beyond. Focusing on innovation, customer service, and reliability, we aim to provide an elevated travel experience for both leisure and business travellers.

Our brand embodies the spirit of Sierra Leone, bold, ambitious, and forward-looking. Our vision is to be recognized as West Africa’s premier airline, known for excellence in service, operational efficiency, and delivering memorable travel experiences.



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NP [SL] Limited Extends Quality Fuel Service to Kamakwie


Committed to enhancing access to affordable, high-quality petroleum products across the country, the National Petroleum (NP) Sierra Leone Limited has commissioned a new filling station in Kamakwie, the district headquarters of Karene District.

The commissioning event, which attracted dignitaries from different sectors, took place on Saturday, January 11, 2025.

In his welcome address, the Regent Chief, Pa Alimami Camira Malay-Conteh, reaffirmed his commitment to working with the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited to ensure common understanding between the people and the company.



“When this work started, I didn’t think I would still be the regent chief today. However, I knew that it was going to be a development that will help to solve the fuel crisis in Kamakwie. As the regent chief, I will make sure I cement a great understanding between NP Sierra Leone and our people,” Pa Alimami Camira Malay-Conteh said.

Speaking at the momentous occasion that was warmly welcomed by residents of Kamakwie, Steven S. Lewis, the Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist of the Karene District Council, said the “state-of-the-art” filling station is a milestone development that will not only ease the movement of people and goods but also minimize the fuel crisis in Kamakwie and its environs.

Alusine Kamara, the Chairman of the Karene District Bike Riders’ Union, expressed delight in the latest development undertaken by the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited, emphasizing that it will curtail black-market dealings in times of fuel shortage in the country.

However, Kamara said there is a need for gas station attendants to uphold professionalism and avoid nepotism while attending to people, especially during situations that pose challenging moments for bike riders, as well as the general public.

Representing the Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited, Ing. Vandy Bockarie, the Sales Manager, said, “Fuel is the blood of every country’s economy. Its shortage impedes access to electricity, transportation, and hinders movement.”

Bockarie added that NP Sierra Leone has built an ultramodern filling station in Kamakwie to end the fuel crisis in the town and its environs.

“The CEO asked me to inform you that the long-term fuel crisis in this town and other places around has ended henceforth. That is why we have built the first ultramodern filling station in Karene District. It is one of its kind,” Ing. Vandy Bockarie said.

He further assured the residents of Kamakwie that there will be fair dealings between NP Sierra Leone Limited and its customers, noting that customers will be prioritized and respected since the company depends on them for its success.

The grand unveiling of the 54 thousand litres filling station climaxed a transformative moment in Kamakwie. Such nationwide interventions by the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited underscore its unwavering contributions to the petroleum sector and significantly promote socio-economic development in the country.



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