Lawyer Marrah demands election certified summary results …writes to RAIC

Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah Esq.

LLB. (Hons); LLM (HRDA—Pretoria); BL.

2^nd floor, 35 Jones Street, Freetown.

      Tel: 076497991 Email: bigsoe@gmail.com  

22^nd August 2023

The Commissioner

Right to Access Information Commission

46 Kroo Town Road

Freetown.

Dear Sir,

RE: APPLICATION TO REVIEW THE DECISION OF ECSL REFUSING TO ANSWER TO REQUEST FOR INFORMATION REGARDING CERTIFIED & VERIFIED DISTRICT LEVEL RESULTS OF THE PRESIDENTIAL, LOCAL AND GENERAL ELECTIONS HELD ON 24^TH JUNE 2023

By a letter dated 28^th July 2023, I requested pursuant to Section 2(1) of the Right to Access Information Act 2013 information from the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone, through its chairperson, on whether the Electoral Commission Sierra Leone (ECSL) has in its custody and/or possession all sixteen districts’ certified summary results by the respective District Returning Officers pursuant to Section 92(1) of the Public Elections Act 2022 for the presidential, parliamentary, and local council elections held on 24^th June 2023. I also requested information on whether the said district certified summary results were verified by counting agents (political parties’ agents) and/or made available to counting agents and observers present at the respective offices of the District Returning Officers pursuant to Section 92(2) of the Public Elections Act 2022. The said letter was copied your Commission since it is mandated by law (the Right to Access Information Act 2013) to monitor and report on the compliance by public authorities with their obligations under the Right to Access Information law.

By Section 4 of the Right to Access information Act 2013, ECSL had a maximum period of fifteen (15) days to respond to my request. However, as at 18^th instant when the 15 days elapsed, I had not received (even until now) any response or answer from ECSL. Naturally, such non-response from ECSL is construed as a refusal to answer to my request for information as outlined above. Consequently, I apply pursuant to Section 43 of the Right to Access Information Act 2013 for your Commission’s review of the decision of ECSL in refusing or omitting to indicate whether or not it holds the said information I requested in my letter of 28^th July 2023 and/or refusing or omitting to provide access to the same.  

I look forward to your review of the said decision of ECSL within the timeframe provided by law.

Yours faithfully,

Augustine S. Marrah Esq.

CC: The Executive Secretary, ECSL

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Orange Money partners with Cornex Filling Station

By Fadda Bakish

Orange Money is an innovative, mobile phone-based payment system that allows customers to carry out simple banking operations and transactions in total security. It does not require a bank account.

Orange Money partnered with Cornex filling stations on 18 August 2023 at the Cornex filling stations Brookfield with the theme pay with Orange Money.

According to the Managing Director of Orange Money David Mansaray, he is excited about the partnership which is a step in the right direction.

Orange Money is all about financial digitalization, our aim game is to ensure that Sierra Leone becomes a cash-light society where we can only use cash in an extreme situation which is our goal and we are working toward as this mark another milestone for us he stated.

He further that, he is excited not only about the partnership but for personal reasons. Where he said if anyone had been in a situation where, you have money in their wallet but you do have physical cash and their car is without fuel in the middle of the night or during the day you are cut up. I had faced with that situation and it wasn’t pleasant and it is challenging. So having this partnership takes away all these challenges he added.

He continues that most of the fuel stations in the country before 9 O’clock are closed the reason for that is because of the cash handling process, it is difficult for them to handle cash at that time and they had no choice but to close. This partnership will give Cornex the opportunity to extend the hours beyond 9 O’clock by simply saying after 9 we only use mobile money transactions for which they can make more and it will be good for both companies. 

Avrajit Kar the CEO of Cornex filling stations states that he is honored and happy about the partnership and this real is going a long way.

It is all about digitalizing our wallets and we don’t need to carry cash anywhere we are going this makes life easy, and transparent where you have a situation where you have a statement on what you spend and everything is accounted for Cornex is proud to take this forward.

He further that all 27 outlets of Cornex will be using Orange Money transactions whether to buy or shop

During the launch of the partnership, David Mansaray stated that by using Orange Money transactions you stand the win 100-liter fuel.

Transboundary patrols at Gola Forest …Salone and Liberia sign MoU

By Abu Bakarr Kargbo

The Government of Sierra Leone through the National Protected Areas Authority (NPAA) and the Government of Liberia, through the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), on Thursday 17^th August 2023 signed a memorandum of understating following the end of the second meeting of the Transboundary Technical Sub-committee of the Gola Forest held in Freetown on 16^th and 17^th August 2023. “Be it resolved, the Transboundary Technical Sub-committee agrees to collaborate with the EU-funded PAPFor and USAID-WABILED projects for the purpose of establishing joint transboundary patrols and developing a harmonized approach for land use for the Greater Gola Landscape consistent with the attached action plans,” the MoU states.

The aim of the two-day dialogue was centered around finding lasting solutions to challenges surrounding the Greater Gola Transboundary Landscape.

The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, NPAA, FDA, West Africa Biodiversity and Low Emissions Development (WABILED), Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), the EU delegation, the Mano River Union (MRU), BirdLife International, Greater Gola Landscape Community Leaders, the Gola Rainforest Conservation Limited by Guarantee (GRC-LG), the Society for the Conservation of Nature in Liberia (SCNL), and the Conservation Society of Sierra Leone (CSSL). The meeting discussed issues, including the overall objectives and purpose of the Transboundary Sub-committee, building on the Peace Accord Agreement between the two countries, and reviewing the implementation status of the action plans developed in the first technical sub-committee meeting in Liberia. The pertinent issues discussed centered on Law Enforcement (challenges, planning, and implementation strategies) of transboundary patrols and Land use issues and planning for policy action within the Gola Landscape.

This was annexed by the two technical sessions, on Law Enforcement and Land Use Planning. The first session focused on solutions and enabling frameworks, integration of security forces, conducting training for Rangers and law enforcement personnel within the context of transboundary patrols, community integration and participation in law enforcement initiatives, and the need for more public education and awareness regarding the importance of transboundary cooperation and joint patrols as well as the related laws.

The second technical session addressed land-use issues and planning for policy actions in the context of the economy of the Gola Landscape conservation, creating a balance between cocoa production and forest conservation, and landscape-based conservation approaches. The key issues discussed included the need for land use planning at both national and local levels, participatory land use mapping, integrating rural land uses to sustain conservation efforts, infrastructural development in conservation landscapes, and developing a tailored approach for land use in the Greater Gola Landscape.

The stakeholders emphasized the need to consider the peace facet of the Agreement and leveraging on existing structures like the MRU to enhance transboundary-related activities, especially for facilitating joint border patrols. The local leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening local structures in terms of capacity and their involvement in conservation initiatives in making informed decisions. They believe authorities should consider them as actors rather than beneficiaries in the management of the transboundary landscape.

ATATA APPOINTED AS YOUTH COMMISSIONER ….APPEASES SLPP GRASSROOTS

The appointment of Ahmed Atata Mansaray by the number one gentleman of the nation sparked lots of jubilation within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) on Friday. Grassroots supporters of the Party are now praising the appointment of President Julius Maada Bio as the National Youth Commissioner.

Ahmed Atata Mansaray is a man who is always close to the grassroots supporters of the SLPP. 

He has been described as a man of young people who is always willing to listen to their cries 

Abu Foday said that Ahmed Atata is wise, brave, and very helpful to young people in the party and that he will be able to serve and deliver some of the promises of the President to the young people.

“Atata is a good man and always close to the ghetto because he is always trying to solve our problems,” Saidu Fofana at the National Stadium Car Wash Center stated 

Atata holds a Bachelor of Arts honors in English Language and English Literature in 2011  and a Bachelor of Law Degree in 2017.

He is awaiting his Masters’ degree in Public Administration from the Institute of Public Administration and Management. 

Before now, he worked with the Livelihood Technical Skills Project as Field Manager and taught English and Literature both at the Lebanese International School and Government Technical School, Congo Cross for over a decade.

He was also head of Media and Communications at the Ministry of Youth Affairs.

Justice Fischer warns peace detractors …Tabital Pulaaku Int. ‘Palava’

…Tabital Pulaaku Int. ‘Palava’

By Abu Bakarr Kargbo

Justice Adrian Fischer… championing peace in the Fullah Community

Justice Adrian Fischer has warned those who may want to disturb the peace process between both parties in a matter that is before the court involving the Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter (a not-for-profit Fullah organization). “I know that you have people on both sides that will be reluctant and would not want peace to work. I warn those people that if they interfere with the peace process I will send them straight to jail,” he said and continued by warning that “please respect yourselves, and if you don’t like what is happening, avoid. Justice Fischer ordered that the period of negotiation between both parties in the matter is opened for a month, and that should they fail to make peace as against the next adjourned dated of 9^th October 2023, he will have no other option but to continue with the matter and give his verdict.

Addressing both parties (members of the Fullah Community that were present in court) through an interpreter, the Judge revealed that the matter went to court because those who took it to could not resolve it amongst themselves. Also, the reason why they hired Lawyers to fight for them in court is that they cannot resolve the matter out of court. “You cannot be fighting outside while the matter is in court. This is a ‘Fulah palava’ and it requires a ‘Fullah solution’,” he noted and added that all of you that are present in court today are somehow related, but they cannot resolve the matter amongst themselves. “I know the Fullahs to be peaceful people and law-abiding. You must try to get elders amongst you to make peace. Whatever decision I reach, one party will not be happy and this will cause relatives within the Fullah Community to continue fighting. The best solution is for you to sit together and find a peaceful solution. I want to give you one more opportunity to solve this problem amongst yourselves,” he said and continued that should they fail to reach a peaceful agreement their Lawyers will continue to work. He will end up giving his verdict at the end of the matter.

Addressing the three Defendants that were in the dock, the Honourable Judge ordered that they should take part in the peace process and they must ensure that they give peace a chance. “You should not get yourselves involved in anything that will disturb the peace process. The matter is still in court and you should not disturb the process,” he emphasized.

Lead Counsel for the Defendants, E.T. Koroma Esq, pleaded with the court to withdraw a contempt of court application earlier filed by the Counsel for the Plaintiff. “The parties before the court are of the same tribe and it is best to see how their differences can be resolved. He accepted that there is an affidavit filed for contempt, which his clients have treated seriously.

Lead Counsel for the Plaintiff did not object to the Defense Counsel’s application. He however pleaded with the court that the Contemnors present should have a nominal fine or a strong warning be given to them. The Judge could not grant either of the two.

The Plaintiff’s case against the Contemnors, Alhaji Mohamed Sarjoh Jalloh the Western Area Fullah Tribal Head (commonly known as MED SAJ), Abdul Razak Bah and Abdulai Barrie, is that they have allegedly set up an unlawful and illegal parallel entity called Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone (TPI SL). The Contemnors alleged that it is the Fullah Tribal Authority that appointed the President of TPI SL. Lawyers for the Plaintiff in their papers say that this is not so and has never been the case and that no such authority is vested in the Fullah Tribal Authority either by law or practice to appoint the Head of the TPI SL Chapter. The Plaintiff’s case against the Contemnors is that they have set up an unlawful and illegal parallel entity called Tabital Pulaaku Sierra Leone Chapter and sought to impose themselves, notwithstanding the validity of the documents and their existence; then allegedly hoodwinking MED SAJ into misstating facts that he firstly appointed the head of Tabital Pulaaku in Sierra Leone but has now revoked the appointment.

Lawyers for the Plaintiff, Tabital Pulaaku International SL Chapter argued that their client was/is registered at the Cooperate Affairs Commission and with the Municipal Authority, Freetown City Counsel, as far back as 2020. They also argued that their client Tabital Pulaaku International SL Chapter has been helping indigent Sierra Leoneans and Fullahs in main spheres of life and constitute one of the national associations making up the federation coming together to have the grand body Tabital Pulaaku International as a duly recognized affiliate member of TPI international since its establishment in 2019.

The Plaintiff was represented by Mohamed Pa-momo Fofana Esq, Leon Jenkins-Johnston, Sorie Sengbe Marah, and C. Vandy; whilst the Defendant was represented by E.T. Koroma Esq and M.F. Bangura. 

Gola Transboundary challenges …Environmental Stakeholders meet

By Abu Bakarr Kargbo

The National Protected Area Authority (NPAA) in collaboration with the Conservation Society of Sierra Leone (CSSL) under the auspices of PAPFor (Support programme for the Preservation of forest ecosystems in West Africa) and West Africa Biodiversity and Low Emissions Development  (WABiLED) Projects, held a Gola Transboundary Technical Sub-committee Meeting in Sierra Leone at the Sierra Bay Hotel, Aberdeen in Freetown, on 16th and 17th August 2023. The aim of the two-day dialogue was centered around finding lasting solutions to challenges surrounding the Greater Gola Transboundary Landscape

Ansumana Baba Turay, Terrestrial Ecosystem Manager, recalled about fourteen years ago when the two countries saw the Gola Rain Forest as a protected area. The environment, he said needs to be protected for generations yet unborn. “Environmental issues are becoming very hot potatoes every day as a result of human footprints on the environment. The two days will discuss some transboundary issues and security of protected areas in the Gola Forest,” he said.

Giancarlo Monteforte, Programme Manager Cooperation at the European Union (EU) Delegation of Sierra Leone, said the Gola Landscape is key to the two countries and provides unique opportunities like the beautification of West Africa. The PAPFor project, he said will end in 2024 but the EU support will not end. “We are going to support a project that goes for the whole continent,” he said and continued that countries depend on their national resources for development, which is why it is good to protect ecosystem activities to address the challenges faced. “The challenges faced by Gola Forest are not unique, it is important that the policy dialogue will be translated to transboundary security and management,” he said.

Dr. Sheku Kamara, Executive Director of the Conservation Society of Sierra Leone revealed that his institution has been working with partners over the years for the protection and management of the Gola Forest. “We worked with the EU to declare it not only a national park but a Peace Park that benefits the two people and fosters a positive relationship,” Dr. Kamara said and furthered that they now have a company limited by guarantee that manages the park for the benefit of the people.

Michael T. Yanbo, Executive Director of the Society for the Conservation of Nature of Liberia (SCNL), called for a collective effort to achieve the Committee’s objectives. “The success stories the two countries will achieve will benefit the people,” he assured and went further to call for the two nations to give their best to the project.

Local Paramount Chief of Liberia, Madam Jamiyatu K. Watson said Liberia has been supporting the protection of the Gola Forest. “We have always sensitized our people about the protection of the environment but the people in turn have been asking for their alternative livelihood because they depend on the forest for their development,” she said hoping that the challenging issues can be addressed.

Stephan Kelloher of WABiLED, noted that he is happy to see governments and organizations working together to protect the Gola Forest and hope to see possibly new actions based on lessons learned and emerging issues. “We have been working hard to add value to the work the countries have been doing in the area of enforcement through border securities. I am Looking forward to a renewed momentum for the protection of the Gola and ensuring the livelihood of women and youths are improved,” he said.

Ahmed Tidiane Diako Programme Officer of the Mano River Union, said his institution has played a key role in protecting the Gola Forest. “The project is good and both countries should know that protection is a day-to-day commitment. There are several threats like illegal mining, charcoal burning, illegal logging, animal hunting, etc, which must be looked into critically in managing the Forest,” Diako said and continued that the Gola Forest is impacting Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia. “Sensitization and collaboration need to be key in protecting the Gola Forest. We will support any regional activity for the development of the Forest,” he said.

The Minister of the Environment and Climate Change was represented by the Director of Environmental Emergencies, Lahai Keita, the species in the Gola Forest are benefiting from the conservation of the forest, and there is also a very good climate change activity in the forest. “We are pleased as a government and nation to be part of the transboundary system and I assure you that the existing relationship between the two countries will continue and that every effort to improve the relationship, especially in areas of environmental protection will be prioritized,” he said. He assured that his ministry hopes and will support the action points that will be developed for the benefit of the people and two nations.

A representative of the Forestry Development Authority in Liberia said his country lays a premium on environmental protection and they have gotten technical meetings on transboundary management. ”We are in support of the collaboration with Sierra Leone and there is a need to get adequate support and build on additional opportunities to protect the landscape,” he said.

COURT OF APPEAL STRIKES! AFRICELL TO PAY OVER LE400MILLION …Costs and damages

By Fadda Bakish

The Court of Appeal has ordered Africell Company to pay the sum of Le400,000,000 (Four Hundred Million Leones) as general damages and Costs of Le30,000,000 (Thirty Million Leones) to the Respondent, Mohamed Bah.

The judgement was delivered on 24^th July 2023 by the Presiding Judge, Hon. Mr. Justice Reginald S. Fynn J.A. together with Hon. Mrs. Justice Musu D. Kamara J.A. and Hon. Mrs. Justice Jamesina E. L. King J.A.

It could be recalled that a writ was issued on 9th December 2017 by the Respondent Mohamed Bah against the Appellants the Managing Director Africell (SL) Ltd and Africell (SL) Ltd, jointly and severally for damages for breach of duty, recovery of the sum of Le1,094,151,776 (one billion and ninety-four million, one hundred and fifty-one thousand, seven hundred and seventy-six Leones) as special damages, an order that the Respondent be flown to India for his second medical treatment at the expense of the 2nd Appellant.

According to the particulars of the claim, while working for the 2nd Appellant on 26th June 2015, the Respondent, Mohamed Bah, fell from its telecommunications tower, and this accident occurred because the Plaintiff had no personal protective equipment (PPE) given to him by the Appellants (the Managing Director and Africell SL Limited). The Appellant is said to have provided the Respondent with medical treatment but has refused to provide the further treatment required. The Respondent was diagnosed as 35% incapacitated, can no longer carry out his duty, and has not been compensated for his pain and suffering.

The claim included particulars of negligence /breach of duty, loss of future earnings, special damages, future earnings, and pension for retirement.

“… it was quite clear that the Respondent needs reviews which was recommended every two months initially and less frequently as time goes as indicated on page 46 of the Records which is the report from Dr. Harding. It should be the responsibility of the 2nd Appellant to bear the costs of all future medical reviews, treatment, and procedures recommended to be done whether in the county or abroad,” the Court stated.

“In the result, the judgment of the High Court should be upheld save on the orders of special damages considering that all expenses incurred so far were paid for by the 2nd Appellants (Africell Company) and end of service benefits considering that the Respondent is still in the employment of the 2nd Appellant,” the Judges stated and continued that “Consequently this Court makes the following orders: The 2nd Appellant is liable to the Respondent in negligence and is ordered to pay to him the following: The sum of Le400,000,000 (Four Hundred Million Leones) as general damages. Costs of Le30,000,000 (Thirty Million Leones) to be borne by the 2nd Appellant to the Respondent; The 2nd Appellant shall pay the costs of medical follow-up reviews and treatment with Dr. M Harding or any other medical specialist, and when a medical specialist certifies ate, it shall bear the costs for a knee replacement in the country or abroad; While employed the 2nd Appellant shall take all necessary steps of reasonable accommodation, provision of assistive devices necessary to support the Respondent at work in accordance with the Persons with Disability Act, 2011, Act No. 3 of 2011; Costs of the Appeal to the Respondent in the sum of NLe20,000; and Liberty to apply.”

The Appellant, Africell Company, was represented by A. S. Showers Esq., while C. Hotobah-During Esq. and G. Conteh Esq. Were for the Respondent.  

East End Lions honours Alhaji Juldeh Sowe

By Abu Bakarr Kargbo

One of the oldest and most successful football clubs in Sierra Leone, East End Lions (The Killers) Fan Club, has honoured one of their own and a Member of the Elders Council, Alhaji Juldeh Sowe at a ceremony held on Friday 11^th August 2023. The Business Tycoon is a patron member of the Football Club and his relentless support over the years is what prompted Members of the Fan Club to present a plaque with his portrait as a token of appreciation.

Aluisine Vandi, Administrative Secretary of the Club was joined by Team Manager, Alhaji Alpha Rasheed, and Amadu Koroma to present the plaque to a prominent businessman who is currently the President of the Tabital Pulaaku International, Sierra Leone Chapter (TPI SL). “Alhaji Juldeh Sowe has continuously provided support for the fan club during our challenging moments,” Vandi remarked and recalled when the National Stadium was shut down for renovation, they had to play most of their home matches in Wusum Stadium in Makeni, a move that challenged traveling fans from Freetown. “We are lucky enough to have received support from senior authorities like Alhaji Juldeh Sowe, Ambassador Anthony Navo jnr, Mohamed Gento Kamara, etc,” he said and continued by stating that the fans appreciate these industrious sons of East End Lions Football Club over the years. “We believe that the great pillar of the club is the Elders Council to which Alhaji Sowe is a member. As we are entering a new football season we count on his support so that the team will win more laurels,” Vamdi said.

Responding, Alhaji Juldeh Sowe revealed that he is not an ordinary supporter of East End Lions but a big-hearted fan that was born in the club’s environment. “I always love seeing East End Lions defeating their arch rivals, Mighty Blackpool,” he said and furthered that East End Lions is an inheritance football club, which he believes that it has nurtured great legends over the years. He promised to continue supporting the club.     

Alhaji Juldeh Sowe who has always acknowledged the role the football culture plays in maintaining values in society, has provided exemplary leadership in his capacity as President, of Tabital Pulaaku International, Sierra Leone Chapter (TPI SL). The not-for-profit organization is committed to helping needy and less fortunate compatriots by providing scholarships to students regardless of tribe, sex, or religious background. Today, his scholarship ventures have produced more than 300 university and tertiary education graduates working in the legal, medical, accountancy, and various sector of society.

He sees himself as a trustee of his success for the betterment of humanity.

Pee Cee and Sons commit to Quality products …PADI PRODUCTS ARE THE BEST IN TOWN!

In business since 1965, Pee Cee and Sons has remained a steadfast importer of diverse food products, including frozen chicken, flour, sugar, rice, and mayonnaise, from esteemed international brands. With an unblemished reputation, the company has nurtured a successful track record that spans decades.

In a recent development, Pee Cee and Sons Limited has taken to the public forum to quash rumors and reaffirm their dedication to excellence. Dismissing allegations circulating on social media, Pee Cee and Sons management has categorically stated that no expired goods have ever graced their shelves for local sale.

At the heart of the controversy lies a claim concerning Padi Mayonnaise, which has sparked a firestorm on social media. The company refutes assertions that its mayonnaise is approaching expiration within a month, asserting that such claims are unfounded and that its products are thoroughly vetted before reaching consumers.

“We assure the public that all products in our inventory are safeguarded and well within their designated shelf lives,” the management stated unequivocally. Addressing the specific concern, it was clarified that the implicated mayonnaise batches were long sold to customers who have now chosen to distribute them at discounted prices as their expiration date nears.

Pee Cee and Sons are resolute in asserting that the implicated mayonnaise has not yet expired, rendering the claims of a social media blogger unfounded and exaggerated. The company holds firm in its commitment to providing quality products to its extensive customer base and sustains a thriving rapport with its clientele.

“The company’s unwavering dedication to adhere to Sierra Leone’s business regulations is an integral aspect of our operations,” Pee Cee and Sons affirmed.

Pee Cee and Sons has substantiated its commitment to societal welfare. With branches across Sierra Leone, the company has generated numerous employment opportunities, contributing significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). A spokesperson from the National Revenue Authority applauded the company’s pivotal role in bolstering the nation’s revenue through its steady distribution of essential food and commodities.

Testimonies from local traders echo the sentiment that Pee Cee and Sons’ products are both high in quality and affordably priced, enabling business growth and customer satisfaction. As a steadfast partner, the company has demonstrated its dedication through charitable contributions during times of crisis, extending aid to those affected by Ebola, the Regent mudslide, and the ongoing pandemic.

Pee Cee and Sons’ comprehensive approach, encompassing procurement, import logistics, warehousing, distribution, and retail, ensures an integrated and streamlined supply chain. Their products’ widespread availability underscores the company’s commitment to prioritizing the public’s interests, aligning with their belief that the consumer is paramount. Amidst the clamor, Pee Cee and Sons stand undeterred, a stalwart guardian of quality and dedication, and an emblem of resilience in Sierra Leone’s business landscape.

ORANGE-SL AND USAID LAUNCH HEALTH GRID PROJECT …POWER SUPPLY TO HEALTH CENTERS

USAID Global Development Alliance (“GDA”) in partnership with ORANGE Sierra Leone has launched the health-Grid project to support the Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MoHS). Healthgrid will install and support sustainable energy systems for twenty-six remote, off-grid healthcare facilities in Sierra Leone.

Orange Sierra Leone as implementing partner is supplying the technical ability for the installation of the PV systems and will also supply internet connectivity in all twenty-six community health centers. The energy systems will be based on solar/photovoltaic (“PV”) electricity generation equipment, which will be sized to meet the needs of each of the twenty-six health facilities (ranging from 5KWH to 10KWH).

Orange will also help ensure long-term sustainability by setting up a technical support “hotline” for Healthgrid O&M, building on its existing internet connectivity support hotline.

The main objective of this project is to Increase energy services available to twenty-six (26) off-grid health centers in Sierra Leone to improve healthcare delivery, increase utilization of Internet services in these off-grid health centers to improve information and data dissemination, and Pilot and test eight (8) water purification services in selected health centers to provide potable water for medical and community utilization.

The roll-out of this project is expected to enable remote health centers to receive a reliable supply of electricity, enabling healthcare workers to use critical equipment, access the internet, and provide them and their patients with a reliable source of clean water.

The electricity produced by the PV systems will enable a cold chain for vaccine storage and distribution in these off-grid communities. Host communities will receive help from improved public health outcomes and from the opportunity to access surplus electricity, internet connectivity, and clean water.

In addition, combining these three services and closely developed relationships with communities will allow facilities to provide sustainable life-saving services, such as seeing emergency patients at night, access to vaccines, information, and rapid coordination with other healthcare providers.

A fundamental goal of Health-Grid is to ensure that the installed equipment is supported and functional for the long term. In this regard, Health-Grid will set up a Sustainability Fund to support ongoing O&M for these systems. The installed systems will include cloud-based monitoring systems that will allow for real-time tracking of the equipment’s performance

These monitoring systems will help Orange prevent and respond quickly to maintenance needs at each site.

The Implementation of HealthGrid Sierra Leone involves a robust coalition of partner organizations, including USAID Mission for Guinea and Sierra Leone is a key financial resource provider for the GDA and co-creator of the HealthGrid Methodology.

Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance is a key financial resource provider for the GDA as well as fundamental liaison support with the government of Sierra Leone and technical support to ensure that the installed systems meet the requirements for effective cold-chain systems.

Orange Sierra Leone serves as the MNO responsible for obtaining and installing the energy and connectivity equipment and for long-term O&M support for all the equipment (energy, connectivity, and WASH); Orange Sierra Leone is also supplying considerable in-kind contributions of skilled Labor, management, and equipment to enable the execution of the GDA.

RESOLVE, with the support of its affiliates in Sierra Leone (Regrow West Africa and Dalan Development Consultants), is serving as the “Prime” for GDA and is a key financial resource provider.

World Vision, lead Healthgrid interventions for the improvement of water supply, sanitation, and hygiene services at the respective healthcare facilities.

Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health and Sanitation on behalf of the government of Sierra Leone, the Ministry selected the off-grid healthcare facilities that will be served by the GDA and will provide ongoing coordination support with all relevant government ministries, departments, and agencies.

LIST OF BENEFICIARY FACILITIES

1. Baoma CHC                                               24. Tikonko (Faabu) CHC
2. Barmoi CHP                                               25. Tobanda CHC
3. Blama Massaquoi CHC                              26. Yormadu CHC
4. Bonthe District Cold Store
5. Buedu CHC
6. Dambala CHC
7. Fadugu CHC
8. Gambia CHC
9. Gbinty CHC
10. Heremakono CHC
11. Jaiama CHC
12. Kamalo CHC
13. Kambia District Cold Store
14. Kawula CHC
15. Koinadugu District Cold Store
16. Mamansosanka CHC
17. Mana II CHC
18. Markoma CHP
19. Massam CHC
20. Mayepoh CHP
21. Motuo
22. Rogbere Junction CHC
23. Talia CHC