By Kadiatu Sankoh
Tuesday 17th December 2024
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Compiled By: Zacharia Jalloh, Strategic Communications Unit, Ministry of Information and Civic Education
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s weekly press conference on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, provided updates on key national developments. The session featured announcements on new air travel services, significant strides in the fisheries sector, diplomatic engagements with Guinea, and security measures ahead of the festive season. Additionally, the press conference addressed allegations of ethnic profiling, showcased advancements in policing technology, and included insights from civil society on national security and diplomacy. These updates reflect the government’s commitment to fostering progress, maintaining peace, and promoting transparency in its engagements. The following are the key highlights:
Direct Flight Between Lagos and Freetown Announced
The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, unveiled the launch of a new direct flight service between Lagos and Freetown by Overland Airways, Nigeria’s longest-serving private domestic airline. The flights will depart from Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 2:00 PM, arriving at Freetown International Airport by 3:45 PM. Minister Bah highlighted that this new service would simplify travel for business and leisure purposes while enhancing regional connectivity.
Fisheries Sector Updates
The Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Princess Bio Dugba, announced the seasonal closure of artisanal fishing in February 2025 to allow fish stocks to replenish. She assured that alternative livelihoods would be provided to fishermen during this period, along with access to medical facilities to ensure their well-being.
Minister Dugba also revealed progress in the government’s plan to export fish to China by 2025, with paperwork nearing completion. On the Black Johnson Fish Harbour project, she confirmed that contractors from China would arrive in Sierra Leone by March 2025 to commence construction. Additionally, she celebrated her ministry’s achievement in exceeding its revenue target and promised to disclose the exact figures in January 2025.
Addressing Diplomatic Concerns with Guinea
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Timothy Kabba, expressed dismay over Guinea’s undiplomatic repatriation of Sierra Leoneans. While acknowledging the strong bilateral ties and cultural affinities between the two nations, he shared that engagements with Guinean authorities resulted in an official apology and a commitment to halt such actions. A special envoy from Guinea is expected to visit Sierra Leone to deliver a diplomatic message to President Julius Maada Bio.
Clarification on Alleged Harassment of Fulah Community
Minister Kabba addressed allegations of harassment against the Fulah community, categorically stating that neither President Bio nor his government sanctioned any discriminatory actions. On behalf of the government, he apologized to any group that felt slighted or profiled in recent events. He assured the public that the President is handling the matter diplomatically to ensure peaceful coexistence.
Security Sector Updates
- Festive Season Security Measures
The Coordinator of the Office of National Security (ONS), Abdulai Caulker, outlined a comprehensive security plan extending beyond the festive season to address national threats. He reported that the plan had already thwarted an attempted coup in Waterloo, neutralizing two fugitives linked to the November 26 coup attempt. Additionally, the discovery of the largest kush factory in Eastern Freetown was attributed to credible intelligence gathered nationwide.
- Assurance of Non-Discrimination
Mr. Caulker emphasized that there is no ethnic targeting within the security forces, assuring citizens of the country’s stability and urging them to continue their activities as normal.
Technological Advancements in Policing
Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, highlighted the Sierra Leone Police’s integration of technology through the Smart City Project. He shared that 36 CCTV cameras have been installed across Freetown to monitor criminal activity in real-time from a joint operations center. The Inspector General assured the public that police operations are impartial and not directed against any ethnic group.
Civil Society Perspective on Security
Valnora Edwin, President of the African Women Leaders Network, urged security forces to address tribal profiling allegations with the seriousness they deserve. She called for an in-depth investigation into the conduct of security personnel when implementing orders. Additionally, she appealed to the government to strengthen diplomatic engagements with Guinea to prevent further aggression against Sierra Leoneans.