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At NaTCA Consumer Parliament… Orange SL Reaffirms Massive Investment in Connectivity Orange Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding digital connectivity, improving customer experience, and deepening investments in Sierra Leone’s telecommunications sector during the National Communications Authority (NaTCA) Consumer Parliament held in Kenema under the theme: “Connectivity for Accelerated Growth.” Representing Orange Sierra Leone at the high-level engagement, Alpha Bundu emphasized the company’s long-standing presence and contribution to the country’s telecommunications landscape, revealing that the company has operated in Sierra Leone for 29 years, tracing its roots back to Celtel, while Orange as a distinct brand has spent the last decade strengthening its footprint nationwide. “Our presence here is to listen to the concerns of our customers because we believe our customers are our bosses,” Bundu stated, drawing applause from participants at the forum. He disclosed that Orange Sierra Leone currently supports over 30,000 indirect jobs across the country through its vast network of franchise operators, agents, kiosks, Orange Money POS operators, and other distribution channels, describing distribution as one of the company’s greatest strengths in Sierra Leone. Bundu further highlighted Orange’s massive infrastructure investments, revealing that the company has generated about 650 operational sites nationwide, including installations in difficult and remote areas with poor road access. According to him, despite logistical and operational challenges, Orange remains committed to extending connectivity to underserved communities. He noted that approximately 29 percent of the company’s profits are reinvested into maintaining and expanding network sites and other operational services, while over 50 additional sites have recently been deployed as part of Orange’s continued nationwide expansion drive. The Orange representative also underscored the company’s growing investment in 4G network technology, assuring consumers that the company will continue to innovate and improve service delivery across the country. “We will continue to invest, innovate and improve connectivity for Sierra Leoneans,” he assured. The NaTCA Consumer Parliament brought together key stakeholders in the telecommunications sector, including regulators, Members of Parliament, telecom operators, government officials, and consumers to discuss persistent connectivity challenges and strategies for improving digital access nationwide. Speaking at the event, NaTCA Director General Amara Brewah said the regulator remains committed to ensuring that mobile operators comply with their obligations to consumers while also serving as an intermediary between service providers and the public. Chairman of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Communication and Technology, Hon. Boston Munda, described network connectivity as a major concern for citizens, stressing the need for accountability and consumer protection within the telecommunications sector. Meanwhile, the Minister of Communication and Technology disclosed that over 400 million dollars has been invested in Sierra Leone’s telecommunications sector over the past five years, resulting in the expansion of network coverage by the country’s four telecom operators. However, she acknowledged that significant challenges still remain, particularly theft and vandalism of communication equipment. The event also featured presentations from Africell.sl⁠, Qcell.sl⁠, Sierratel and other industry players, all of whom outlined ongoing investments aimed at improving telecommunications services across Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone’s Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) has confirmed that the vessel MV Arconian departed Sierra Leone without any declared or detected cocaine consignment, following investigations into the ship intercepted by Spanish authorities. Speaking at a press conference in Freetown, TOCU revealed that all routine inspections, cargo documentation, CCTV footage, port movement logs, and loading records showed no evidence of narcotics concealment while the vessel was in Sierra Leonean waters. Investigators disclosed that the ship officially departed with palm kernel cargo, marine diesel, and water supplies, and that no security breach or suspicious maritime activity was reported during its stay at the port. However, TOCU raised concerns over six additional unaccounted crew members discovered after the vessel left Sierra Leone, suggesting the possibility of transnational criminal activity occurring outside Sierra Leone’s territorial waters. Authorities say investigations remain ongoing as Government pursues diplomatic engagement with Spain to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the international drug bust.

As succession debates intensify within the SLPP, Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh is increasingly emerging as one of the most strategically positioned figures in Sierra Leonean politics. While others pursued visibility, confrontation, and political theatrics, Juldeh Jalloh built his influence through discipline, loyalty, and quiet execution. President Julius Maada Bio’s recent public praise — describing him as an exceptional vice president who maintained a stable relationship with his president throughout the administration — has further fueled speculation about his growing political stature. Known for handling sensitive national assignments without drama or self-promotion, Juldeh Jalloh has cultivated what many consider the most valuable asset in succession politics: presidential confidence. Supporters argue that his calm, methodical, and unifying approach may resonate strongly in an increasingly polarized political climate where many voters are growing tired of noise and confrontation. His rise may not have been loud — but it is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

President Julius Maada Bio has fueled fresh SLPP succession speculation after publicly hailing Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh as an “exceptional vice president” and one of the most dependable figures in government. Speaking during his birthday celebrations, Bio praised Juldeh’s discipline, loyalty, and leadership style, stressing that their partnership remains the first in Sierra Leone’s history without a major fallout between a president and vice president. Political observers now see the remarks as more than ordinary praise. As succession politics intensify within the SLPP, many believe Bio’s comments were carefully calculated signals about the qualities he wants in the party’s next leader — unity, restraint, broad national appeal, and the ability to bridge divisions. Juldeh Jalloh’s calm and low-profile approach is increasingly being viewed as a political asset, with supporters arguing that his quiet consistency, resilience, and cross-party acceptability could make him a formidable figure in Sierra Leone’s next political transition.

Barely days after the Ministry of Trade fixed new cement prices to ease the burden on struggling Sierra Leoneans, traders across the country continue to defy the directive and sell at inflated rates. Imported cement still hovers around Le225 while local cement is sold at about Le215, openly ignoring government regulations. The growing defiance is now raising serious questions about state authority, regulatory enforcement, and who truly controls the market. For thousands of citizens battling hardship, rising food prices, unemployment, and an unbearable cost of living, the continued overpricing of cement is crippling housing projects, construction works, and national development efforts. Critics warn that if traders can openly ignore government policies without consequences, it risks creating a dangerous culture where laws exist only on paper while profiteers exploit ordinary citizens with impunity.

METER SYNDICATE ROCKS EDSA! While EDSA publicly announced affordable and transparent meter installation fees, shocking allegations from the Waterloo branch suggest a deeply entrenched “pay-to-connect” system where desperate citizens are forced to pay inflated illegal charges to get electricity on time. Customers who pay the official fee reportedly suffer months of delays, while those who pay higher unofficial amounts receive fast-tracked service — exposing what many now describe as a full-blown meter syndicate operating inside the system. The scandal raises serious concerns about corruption, exploitation, revenue leakages, and the collapse of accountability within an institution meant to serve the public. Sierra Leoneans are now demanding urgent investigations and decisive action from EDSA management before public trust is completely destroyed.

Sierra Leone’s Opposition Leader in Parliament, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, has launched a blistering warning to President Julius Maada Bio, saying Sierra Leone risks sliding into a full-blown “narco-state” amid mounting international cocaine trafficking scandals linked to the country. From the shocking interception of a vessel carrying over 30 tonnes of cocaine allegedly departing Freetown, to growing global scrutiny over Kush, airport drug busts, and the notorious “Mocro Mafia” connection, Kargbo says Government silence is damaging Sierra Leone’s image, security, economy, and global credibility. He warned that history shows nations become narco-states gradually through corruption, compromise, and silence — urging immediate action before irreversible damage is done.

When Innovation Meets Opportunity Richlyn Kainekay Turay, 2025 OSVP Tech Queen Winner Why OSVP 2026 Is a Defining Moment for Young Women Building Solutions That Matter , 2025 OSVP Tech Queen Winner tells her Inspirational Journey Freetown, 11th May 2026 At Orange Digital Center, innovation is about more than technology, it is about people, purpose, and progress. It is about creating opportunities that empower individuals and communities to thrive. For me, that opportunity came through the Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) 2025, a turning point in my journey as an innovator and entrepreneur. My name is Richlyn Kainekay Turay, Co-CEO of TechMinds SL Ltd., a software and IT consultancy company based in Sierra Leone. I also lead the development of Smart College, our flagship digital solution designed to modernise higher education management, streamline institutional operations, and improve learning experiences for students and educators alike. Being recognised as the OSVP Tech Queen 2025 was more than receiving an award. It was a powerful vote of confidence, confidence in the problem we are solving, the potential of our solution, and the impact women can create when given the right support. From Promise to Progress: The OSVP Effect Before OSVP, Smart College was a promising idea gaining traction. After OSVP, it evolved into a solution with clearer direction, greater credibility, and stronger potential for scale and impact. Through OSVP’s support, we expanded Smart College far beyond its initial scope. The platform now includes enhanced system features, improved performance, and smarter workflows tailored to the real needs of academic institutions. These improvements were shaped by mentorship, strategic guidance, and exposure provided through the OSVP ecosystem. The visibility created by Orange opened doors to strategic partnerships, valuable industry conversations, and meaningful collaboration. OSVP did not simply showcase our product, it connected us to people, networks, and knowledge that strengthened our solution and positioned it for sustainable growth within Sierra Leone’s education technology landscape. Empowerment Through the Orange Digital Centre A key part of this journey was the support I received through the Orange Digital Centre. The experience offered far more than technical guidance, it provided clarity, confidence, and renewed purpose. Through mentorship and tailored support, I strengthened my leadership skills, refined our growth strategy, and learned how to scale responsibly while remaining focused on impact. These experiences reinforced an important truth: technology creates lasting value when people remain at the centre of innovation. For women in technology and entrepreneurship, this kind of intentional support matters deeply. It reflects Orange’s commitment to inclusion and diversity, and its belief that innovation becomes stronger when every voice has the opportunity to lead. An Invitation to Young Women Innovators To every young woman with an idea capable of solving a real challenge: OSVP is for you. If your solution is still evolving, apply. If you are unsure whether you are “ready,” take the step anyway. The Orange Social Venture Prize is not only about recognising what already exists, but also about nurturing what is possible. The OSVP journey encourages innovators to think boldly, build responsibly, and lead with purpose. It offers access to mentorship, visibility, and a supportive community that believes in growth through learning and collaboration. Through OSVP, I found confidence, community, and the courage to push my innovation beyond its limits. Innovation With Purpose, Impact With Reach Today, Smart College supports more institutions and contributes to a more efficient and digitally enabled education sector in Sierra Leone. Beyond product development, OSVP has also deepened my commitment to giving back.

In July last year, Hon.. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkellah- the Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Energy and Food Security, promised an electricity revolution with over 250 megawatts of power by 2026. But today, Sierra Leoneans say they are living under “250 megawatts of blackout.” From Freetown to the provinces, homes, businesses and hospitals remain trapped in suffocating darkness as frustration boils nationwide. With blackouts worsening daily despite millions spent on the energy sector, citizens are now demanding answers: Where is Karpowership?

SIERRA LEONE’S ELECTRICITY CRISIS has now descended into what many citizens describe as a national nightmare, with EDSA and energy authorities seemingly losing the “master key” to the country’s power supply. From Freetown to the provinces, communities are drowning in relentless darkness, while residents in the east of the capital say they have endured over two months of near-total blackout. Businesses are collapsing, students are studying under candlelight, hospitals are struggling and families are suffocating through unbearable nights. Amid millions reportedly poured into the energy sector and Karpowership, Sierra Leoneans are demanding answers as Government claims of “sufficient electricity” sharply contradict the brutal reality on the ground. For many citizens, this is no longer just a power problem — it is a national disgrace.

*Orange Mobile Finance Sierra Leone Appoints New Chief Executive Officer* The Board of Directors of Orange Mobile Finance Sierra Leone is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Mahamane Sidi Touré as its new Chief Executive Officer. A seasoned telecommunications engineer, Mr. Touré brings over 17 years of experience within the SONATEL Group, with a strong track record across technology, commercial strategy, and digital financial services. He has held key leadership roles at Orange Mali and Orange Mobile Finance Mali, where he drove innovation and market growth in mobile money services. Most recently, as CEO of Orange Mobile Finance Guinea Bissau, he successfully led the company to rapid growth, achieving profitability and delivering its first dividends within just 15 months of operations. His appointment reflects a continued commitment to strengthening leadership and accelerating financial inclusion through innovative and customer centric solutions in Sierra Leone. The Board of Directors and Management of Orange Mobile Finance Sierra Leone warmly welcome Mr. Touré and wish him every success in his new role.

Labour leaders and national stakeholders have thrown strong support behind Gento Group’s Kent Seaport project, branding it a game-changing, Sierra Leonean-led investment set to drive massive job creation and economic transformation. Endorsed during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebrations, the project is projected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs while boosting trade and modernizing the country’s port infrastructure. With civil society backing and momentum building, pressure is mounting on Government to fully back the initiative.

Orange Foundation Equips Regent Square Municipal School with Digital Kits The Orange Foundation on Thursday 30th April, 2026 has strengthened its commitment to digital inclusion and quality education in Sierra Leone through the donation of Digital School Kits to pupils of Regent Square Primary School and Regent Square Municipal School. The donated digital school kits included Laptops, iPads/tablets headphones, speakers, wifi, routers, digital cameras and modems used to access and support digital learning. Speaking at the event, Orange Sierra Leone CEO, Aicha Toure emphasized that the Digital School Kits initiative is designed to bridge the digital divide affecting millions of children across Africa who still lack access to digital learning tools and internet connectivity. According to the CEO, the initiative has already reached 16 African countries, benefiting about 1,400 schools and more than 500,000 pupils across the continent. “In Sierra Leone, the Orange Foundation has proudly donated 44 sets of Digital School Kits over the past year, benefiting more than 30,000 pupils in six districts nationwide,” CEO stated. She described the kits as more than just technological devices, noting that they serve as gateways to knowledge, imagination, creativity, and future opportunities for young learners. “These Digital School Kits are more than devices; they are gateways to knowledge, imagination, and the future,” she said, encouraging pupils to use the tools to explore new subjects and broaden their horizons. The CEO expressed gratitude to the teachers pointing out that the digital resources would support and enhance classroom instruction while making lessons more engaging and interactive. During an interactive session with pupils, Director of Orange Foundation, Annie Wunnie Katta engaged children in conversations about their future ambitions, with several pupils expressing dreams of becoming nurses, lawyers, and doctors. Madam Katta used the opportunity to stress the importance of combining traditional education with digital literacy. “We understand that in the future, digital skills will be very important for children moving into tomorrow. That is why we are here today to donate digital school equipment that will give you the opportunity to explore, think, build, and be successful,” she said. She encouraged pupils to see the equipment as tools for building their futures and urged teachers to integrate the kits into daily teaching activities to move beyond traditional classroom methods. She further reminded the children that success is not determined by one’s background or school, but by access to opportunity and dedication to learning. “It does not matter where you are or which school you attend. What matters is that you have access to the same opportunities and tools that privileged children have,” she told the pupils. Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education Conrad Sackey reflected on his personal connection to Regent Square Municipal School, describing himself as a proud former pupil. “Right here on this very school ground, a small boy once sat wide-eyed, uncertain, and full of questions. Today, that same small boy stands before you as a man,” the minister said. He recounted his humble beginnings and underscored the life-changing power of education, noting that his own journey from a classroom pupil to national leadership was made possible through access to learning opportunities. “Education transforms lives, and because it transforms lives, opportunity must be shared,” he stated. He described the Digital School Kits as modern educational tools capable of preparing pupils for a future where digital literacy will be essential. “These Digital School Kits are more than tools; they are gateways to possibility,” he said. He urged pupils to remain focused on their studies and see themselves as future doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers, innovators, and leaders.

The Kent Port Project is fast becoming a defining test for Julius Maada Bio—a high-stakes opportunity to reshape Sierra Leone’s economy, create thousands of jobs, and unlock industrial growth. Driven by the private ambition of Gento Group, the project signals bold local potential—but without strong government backing, its full impact could stall. Stakeholders say decisive support now would ignite investor confidence, accelerate development, and cement Bio’s legacy as the leader who turned vision into lasting economic transformation.

Lawyers Society Raises Red Flag Over “Unilateral” Security Law The Lawyers' Society of Sierra Leone has raised alarm over Parliament’s passage of the National Security and Central Intelligence Bill into law in the absence of opposition participation, describing the move as a troubling departure from the principles of inclusive governance and democratic accountability. In a strongly worded press release issued today, the Society urged His Excellency the President to withhold assent to the legislation, emphasizing the need for broader consultation and meaningful bipartisan engagement before such a consequential law takes effect. The Society noted that legislation touching on national security and intelligence carries far-reaching implications for civil liberties, state power, and public trust, and therefore demands the highest standards of transparency and consensus-building. According to the statement, the exclusion of opposition voices and other critical stakeholders from the legislative process not only weakens the credibility of the law but also raises fundamental concerns about Sierra Leone’s commitment to democratic norms. The Society warned that sidelining dissenting perspectives risks creating laws that lack legitimacy and public confidence, particularly in a fragile political climate. The Lawyers' Society further referenced the spirit and intent of the national unity agreement, recently reaffirmed by its moral guarantors, stressing that such agreements are designed to foster cooperation, dialogue, and shared responsibility in governance. It cautioned that actions perceived as unilateral or exclusionary could erode the fragile trust the agreement seeks to rebuild. Reiterating its position as a non-partisan body committed to upholding the rule of law, the Society called on the Executive to demonstrate leadership by prioritizing national cohesion over expediency. It maintained that withholding presidential assent at this stage would provide an opportunity for renewed dialogue, inclusive review, and necessary amendments that reflect the concerns of all political actors and civil society. The Society concluded by urging all arms of government to recommit to the principles of democracy, accountability, and inclusivity, warning that the strength of Sierra Leone’s governance framework ultimately depends on the participation and confidence of all its citizens.

At 65, Sierra Leone is witnessing a powerful shift in its economic story as indigenous investor Mohamed Gento Kamara drives the construction of a modern seaport in Kent. Once a symbol of the transatlantic slave trade, Kent is being transformed into a gateway for trade, jobs, and national growth. The project signals a bold move toward local investment and economic self-reliance, with the potential to boost commerce, ease pressure on existing ports, and unlock opportunities across multiple sectors. More than infrastructure, it represents a symbolic reclaiming of history—turning a site of past suffering into a foundation for future prosperity.

DIB Calls for National Healing, Unity and Inclusive Growth in Independence Day Address In a reflective and forward-looking Independence Day message, Dr Ibrahim Bangura (DIB) has called on Sierra Leoneans to move beyond symbolic celebrations and commit to building a more inclusive, just, and economically resilient nation. Marking the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary, DIB reminded citizens that April 27, 1961, was not merely a historic milestone but the beginning of an ongoing journey toward true independence. He emphasized that while political freedom was achieved decades ago, the country is still striving to attain economic strength, social justice, and effective governance. “True independence remains a journey we are still shaping,” he noted, pointing to persistent challenges such as inequality, youth disenfranchisement, and weak institutional trust despite the nation’s vast natural and human resources. DIB paid tribute to the sacrifices of Sierra Leone’s forebears, stressing that their vision extended beyond political liberation to building a society grounded in dignity, opportunity, and inclusiveness. He urged citizens to reflect on whether the country is living up to those ideals today. In a message directed at national cohesion, he cautioned against division and instead called for collective responsibility in nation-building. According to him, Sierra Leone’s progress depends on the active participation of all citizens, regardless of background, as well as those who have chosen to make the country their home. The address placed strong emphasis on youth empowerment, with DIB describing young people as central to shaping the nation’s future. He encouraged them to use their voices, creativity, and innovation to drive transformation. He also challenged leaders and public institutions to prioritize transparency, accountability, and service to the people, noting that trust in leadership remains critical to national development. Central to his message was a three-step roadmap for the country’s future: healing, unity, and building. He called for deliberate efforts to heal past divisions, foster unity through shared purpose, and ultimately build a nation that reflects the true promise of independence. “The path forward is clear,” he said. “We must heal, then unite, and together build a truly independent Sierra Leone.” DIB concluded by urging Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad to embrace a renewed sense of purpose, stressing that the nation’s future will not happen by chance but through consistent, collective effort. As the country celebrates 65 years of independence, his message serves as both a reminder of how far Sierra Leone has come and a call to action for the work that still lies ahead.

At 65, Sierra Leone’s Independence remains more symbolic than transformative for many citizens. Despite past gains, the country continues to struggle with poverty, corruption, weak institutions, and deep political and tribal divisions. The failure is not freedom itself, but how it has been managed—undermined by bad governance, self-interest, and lack of national unity. While other nations have advanced, Sierra Leone has lagged, with citizens increasingly seeking opportunities abroad. Though recent progress exists, it is overshadowed by unemployment, rising costs, and poor public services. The path forward demands accountability, competent leadership, and a shift away from divisive politics. Independence freed Sierra Leone from colonial rule. The real fight now is freedom from corruption, division, and underdevelopment—and that responsibility lies with Sierra Leoneans themselves.

Orange Middle East and Africa Launch Its New Strategic Plan Trust the Future April 2026. Across Africa and the Middle East regions characterized by rapid population growth and accelerating digital adoption, Orange is emerging as a pivotal force behind inclusive development. By expanding access to connectivity, financial services, and sustainable energy, the company is enabling millions to participate more fully in the digital economy. A Strategic Vision for Sustainable Growth Operating in over 15 countries, Orange Africa and the Middle East serve more than 150 million customers, a number expected to grow as mobile usage deepens. In 2025, the region generated approximately €8 billion in revenue, reinforcing its role as a vital growth engine for the Orange Group. Central to this momentum is Orange’s new strategic plan 2026 - 2030, “Trust the Future,” which underscores the company’s commitment to building long-term trust with customers and partners while delivering reliable, secure, and inclusive services at scale. The strategy is structured around three core ambitions: Our Three Ambitions in Action 1. Customer Intimacy: Leverage our strong brand to increase customer base, loyalty, and differentiation. We aim to deepen our relationships with customers by providing reliable, secure, and inclusive services that meet their evolving needs. 2. Innovative Growth: Capture opportunities in B2C and B2B markets and manage our unique infrastructure assets for value. This involves expanding connectivity through extensive 4G and 5G networks, investing in infrastructure, and developing digital ecosystems like Orange Money and Max it to foster financial inclusion and digital empowerment. 3. Excellence at Scale: Strengthen operational excellence and leverage scale for efficiency. We focus on infrastructure investments, sustainable energy solutions, and training programs to support human development, ensuring long-term, sustainable growth across the region. Connectivity as a Catalyst for Development Connectivity remains the foundation of Orange’s impact. The company has achieved extensive 4G coverage across all markets, with 5G services operational in seven African countries and additional rollouts underway. Nearly 100 million customers now use Orange’s 4G network, reflecting a significant shift toward data-driven digital lifestyles. This expansion is supported by substantial infrastructure investments. Large-scale backbone projects, including cross-border fiber networks spanning thousands of kilometers, are strengthening regional resilience and enabling faster, more affordable connectivity for businesses, governments, and individuals. Orange invests over €1 billion annually in network infrastructure, data Centers, and international connectivity, demonstrating a sustained commitment to regional development. Financial Inclusion and Digital Ecosystems Beyond connectivity, Orange is transforming financial inclusion through its flagship service, Orange Money, which now boasts 47 million active users. In many markets, it has become an essential financial lifeline, allowing individuals and small businesses to send and receive money, pay bills, and conduct transactions without traditional banking access. With digital payments on the rise, the platform is projected to surpass 60 million users in the coming years. Complementing this ecosystem is Max it, Orange’s all-in-one digital super app that integrates telecom services, payments, and everyday digital tools. With over 20 million active users across 16 countries, Max it simplifies access to essential services, especially in markets where smartphones are the primary gateway to the digital economy. Human development is at the heart of Orange’s “Trust the Future” strategy. Since 2019, the company has trained approximately 1.4 million young people through a network of 50 Orange Digital Centers and partnerships with 167 universities across Africa & Middle East

ILRAJ warns @Parliament that the proposed constitutional amendments threaten democratic safeguards. The Bill, it says, weakens electoral independence, favours the executive, sidelines smaller parties, and bypasses referendum requirements—risking democratic backsliding