VIP Trading Company–Sierra Leone Limited, has been honored by the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) with a Certificate of Appreciation, in recognition of the company’s unwavering support to the media and journalism in Sierra Leone. The award was formally presented during SLAJ’s handing-over and inauguration ceremony on July 11, 2025 at the Bintumani Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown.

The certificate signifies SLAJ’s acknowledgment of VIP Trading Company’s impactful partnership with the media, particularly in promoting press freedom, enhancing public access to information, and supporting the growth of independent journalism. It also reflects the company’s broader contributions to national development through food security, job creation, and support for public institutions.

Under the visionary leadership of its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ahmed Hashim, VIP Trading Company has grown into one of Sierra Leone’s most respected private sector entities. The company has strategically aligned itself with President Julius Maada Bio’s Big 5 game changers, with the Feed Salone initiative playing a key role in the national effort to achieve food self-sufficiency and economic stability.

Speaking after receiving the award, Mr. Ahmed Hashim expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the company. “Reflecting on the remarkable journey of VIP Trading Company–Sierra Leone Limited, we are proud of how far we have come—rising from humble beginnings to becoming a trusted name in the business landscape of Sierra Leone,” he stated.

“We are truly honored by this recognition from the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), a gesture that acknowledges our continued efforts and positive impact,” he added. “This certificate serves as a strong motivation for us to keep pushing boundaries. Thank you, SLAJ, for this encouragement—it fuels our drive to reach greater heights.”

The leadership of Ahmed Hashim—fondly known as VIP—has been particularly transformative in his role as the supplier of rice to the Sierra Leone Police (SLP). Through VIP Group of Companies, Mr. Hashim has not only fulfilled contractual obligations with professionalism and consistency, but has also gone beyond the call of duty by ensuring timely and quality delivery of rice supplies. His efforts have been widely praised for boosting morale among police officers and contributing significantly to national food security.

Notably, VIP Trading Company is the first to deliver rice exclusively to police installations across the country—a historic feat in Sierra Leone’s procurement landscape. This accomplishment has positioned the company as a benchmark for reliability and excellence in public service support.

Beyond the police, the company’s operations have generated hundreds of jobs, especially for youths and women, and contributed to economic empowerment across communities. Mr. Hashim’s inclusive business model is grounded in a strong belief in shared prosperity and sustainable development.

As Sierra Leone continues its journey towards self-reliance and inclusive growth, the SLAJ recognition of VIP Trading Company–Sierra Leone Limited, serves as a timely reminder of the value of public-private collaboration. It also highlights the importance of responsible corporate leadership in shaping national development outcomes.

In reaffirming his commitment to the country, Mr. Ahmed Hashim noted, “Our mission goes beyond commerce. We are committed to nation-building—supporting government institutions, empowering citizens, and ensuring that Sierra Leone’s development goals are realized.”

With continued innovation, community engagement, and partnership with key stakeholders, VIP Trading Company–Sierra Leone Limited remains poised to make even greater contributions to the nation’s progress.

The SLAJ Certificate of Appreciation is not only an acknowledgment of past achievements, but a challenge to maintain and even surpass current standards of service and support to the media and the people of Sierra Leone.