The Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s press conference on Tuesday, 22nd October 2024, provided key national updates by various government officials. Topics ranged from Sierra Leone’s re-qualification for the Under-17 WAFU football tournament, to efforts supporting prisoners unable to pay fines, updates on the pending doctors’ strike, and preparations for the upcoming Women in Tourism Regional Congress. These developments reflect the government’s commitment to due process, social justice, and enhancing Sierra Leone’s role on the global stage. The following are the key highlights:

? Sierra Leone U-17 Re-Qualification for WAFU Zone A

The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, proudly announced that Sierra Leone’s Under-17 football team has re-qualified for the West Africa Football Union (WAFU) Zone A competition. The team had initially been disqualified for failing the MRI test on players considered to be over-age. However, following an appeal by the Sierra Leone Football Associ
ation, a second independent test conducted by a clinic approved by CAF returned negative, thereby reinstating Sierra Leone’s qualification. Minister Bah reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s dedication to ensuring due process in all matters

? Clarification on Chief Minister’s Payment of Prisoner Fines

Minister C. Bah addressed recent activities involving Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, who paid fines for prisoners in Pujehun and Kenema. He clarified that the Chief Minister only assisted prisoners who were unable to pay fines imposed by a judge, with some fines as low as NLE500 to NLE1000. The initiative was driven by the belief that no one should remain incarcerated due to the inability to pay a small fine and poverty. The Minister emphasized that this act was in alignment with the Chief Minister’s commitment to justice and fairness.

? Minister of Health Addresses Pending Doctors’ Strike

Dr. Austin Demby, Minister of Health, provided updates on the ongoing discussions with doctors regarding a potential strik
e. He informed the public that the Ministry has engaged the doctors, assuring them that their fuel allocations will be provided. He called on the doctors to prioritize compassion for the public and reconsider their strike plans. Minister Demby noted that the government had already paid for the first two quarters of 2024, with only the third and fourth quarters remaining. He further highlighted that the annual fuel allocation for doctors stands at approximately NLE31 million and assured that efforts are underway to meet the outstanding commitments. The Minister commended the doctors for their sacrifices and expressed hope that after discussions with the Medical and Dental Association, doctors would continue serving the nation.

? Sierra Leone to Host Women in Tourism Regional Congress

Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Nabeela Tunis proudly announced that Sierra Leone will host the Women in Tourism Regional Congress for the first time. The event will take place at the Freetown International Conference C
enter from 29th to 31st October 2024. This landmark Congress will bring together over 600 women from Sierra Leone and across Africa to discuss their roles in advancing tourism in the region. Organized in collaboration with the UN World Tourism Organization, the Congress aims to develop an action plan for submission to the African Union for implementation by member states. Minister Tunis highlighted that Sierra Leone saw a 22% increase in visitors in 2024, a result of several international conferences recently hosted in the country.

? National Tourism Board’s Preparedness for Congress

Fatmata H. Carew, Managing Director of the National Tourism Board, outlined the country’s readiness for the upcoming Congress. She revealed that the Board has engaged private sector partners in tourism and held inter-MDA meetings to ensure smooth coordination. Visas on arrival have been secured for international attendees, along with accommodations and transportation arrangements. Carew urged Sierra Leoneans to support the Mini
stry’s efforts to clean the beaches and keep the country presentable, emphasizing that Sierra Leone cannot afford to misstep in hosting such a significant event.

Source: Sierra Leone News Agency