AWOL Golden Jubilee National Achievement Awards 2011
Speech by AWOL Chairman, Hon. Chernor R. M. Bah, on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee National Achievement Awards 2011 at Family Kingdom Hall, Freetown, on Friday 30th December 2011
LET’S BUILD A NEW SIERRA LEONE
Your Excellency the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma; Honourable Vice President of Sierra Leone; former President of Sierra Leone, Alhaji Dr. Ahmad Tejan Kabbah; Ministers of Government; Honourable Members of Paliament; Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps; Corporate Executives; Heads of Parastatals; Members of the National Achievement Awards Committee 2011; Members of the Fourth Estate; Sierra Leoneans from all walks of life; distinguish ladies and gentlemen, good evening and welcome to our 10th annual National Ahievement Awards ceremony.
On behalf of the entire membership of AWOL, let me first of all express our sincere gratitude to you all for joining us in our quest to build a generation of role models in all walks of life to whom we can reliably entrust the future of our beloved country.
You will all agree with me that AWOL’s National Achievement Awards have now become an important feature in the calendar of annual events in Sierra Leone. Come as it does towards the close of the year, many of us see it as part of our Christmas and End of Year entertainment recipe; some do so out of interest, some out of concern and others, in anticipation of being recognised for their good works in the course of the year.
For us the AWOL family, this is a welcome trend as it adds worth and meaning to our efforts, and brings fulfillment to our dreams; for over and above recognizing and awarding merit, effort, achievement, ability, devotion, commitment and scholarship, we bring hope and meaning to many of our compatriots and underprivileged communities through our various social, educational and humanitarian interventions.
Your Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen, we take advantage of every opportunity we have to reiterate that AWOL is a non-political and non-profit organisation. Our focus is national development. Our philosophy- to be selfless, to serve, and to give back to society and expect nothing in return as reward or profit- hinges on our determination to complement government’s effort in nation building. Regardless of which democratic government is in power, 10 years on, AWOL continues to contribute its own quota to the development agenda of Mama Salone. We continue to pledge our love and loyalty to Mama Salone and vow to serve her interest above all else. For 10 years, we have stayed together as a group, worked together as a family, and pursued our goals and aspirations as patriotic Sierra Leoneans who care and love their country. Granted, we have had our internal problems, for no group or organisation exists without conflict; but we have been able to resolve our differences amicably without any threat to the developmental aspirations of the organisation. For us, no individual member is bigger than AWOL. AWOL is bigger than each one of us. Our leaders are charged with the responsibility to always bring us together as a family and maintain and promote those traditions that have held us together since we decided to become one family some ten years ago.
Speaking of our contribution to national development, last year, in this same hall, on this same occasion, I pledged AWOL’s full support towards the celebration of our country’s 50th Independence Anniversary. Tonight, as Chairman of AWOL, I stand very tall and proud to report that we fufilled that pledge to the admiration and gratitude of the Government and People of Sierra Leone. We fully supported the 50th Independence Anniversary National Planning Committee in celebrating the Green, White and Blue and we initiated our own programs in galvanising the whole nation to take ownership of the Golden Jubilee and, in the end, we had a very successful celebration. Much of our contribution towards the celebration of Sierra Leone’s 50th Independence Anniversary, and our other activities, are captured in our annual magazine brochure.
Technically speaking, Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, until 27th April 2012, we are still in the Golden Jubilee year. However, as we continue celebrating we take somber reflections on where and how we want to see our country in the next 50 years. The answer can be found in our theme for this year’s awards ceremony: ‘Building a New Nation’; carefully chosen to tie in with the theme of the 50th Independence Anniversary, ‘50 Years Forward: Celebrating a New Sierra Leone’.
Thus, AWOL supports the Sierra Leone Conference on Development and Transformation as a way to build a new Sierra Leone which is the dream of every Sierra Leonean.
AWOL shares in that dream of every Sierra Leonean to see our small but naturally blessed country develop into a paradise on earth:
We want to see a law abiding nation, where everyone is equal before the law and justice is accessible to all.
We want to see a country that is less and less corrupt and where natural resources are judiciously harnessed for the benefit of all.
We want to see a nation where elected officials of State are responsive to the needs and aspirations of their people.
We want to see Sierra Leoneans showing love for one another.
We want to see a nation with a whole new attitude of progress, patriotism, unity, freedom and justice.
We want to see non-violence, peaceful co-existence and tolerance among politicians, religions and our young people.
We want to see quality and relevant education for our children and young people.
We want to see an improved, accessible and affordable health care delivery system across the country.
We want to see a nation with improved social amenities for the enjoyment of our young people.
We want to see a nation that is able to grow its own food and be able not only to feed itself but its neighbours as well.
We want to see a nation that is less dependent on donor funds for its survival.
We want to see a nation that idolises her past, present and future leaders and heroes.
We want to see functioning, responsible, pro-active and delivering state institutions.
In short, we want to see the GREAT TRANSFORMATION.
Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, let’s start to build a new nation tonight by celebrating our individual and collective achievements. The good thing about recognition is that it motivates, inspires and encourages hardwork. More often than not our society is such that it’s easy for us to point at people we deem corrupt or not worthy of emulation. It’s so easy for us to cry down successful people we know very little, or nothing, about. Our annual National Achievement Awards seek to change that bad attitude. Every time we look around, we want our young people to see countless Sierra Leoneans who have diligently, honestly, dedicatedly and selflessly played, and are playing, their part in nation building. When that is the case, our young people will be encouraged, inspired, motivated; and they will aspire to emulate the good examples.
In that spirit, let me salute and congratulate all the nominees here tonight. To be nominated from among the lot is an achievement in itself. However, to those who will not receive awards this night, be rest assured that, with AWOL there is always another night. Be encouraged. Be inspired. Be motivated. And you will achieve.
Let me aknowlege the eminent, credible and distinguish members of our National Achievement Awards Committee 2011, and all those who have served in that capacity before. Ladies and gentlemen, these people are equally worthy of receiving awards tonight except that our policy frowns against that. Their service is a voluntary as well as a national one and, on behalf of AWOL, we are very grateful.
Our awards policy is not limited to members of the Awards Committee alone but extends, obviously, to AWOL members and their interests. Otherwise there is no way this awards ceremony will be complete without us recognising and awarding one of our own for his tremendous and unconditional contribution to the development of AWOL and our nation. As Chairman of AWOL in its formative years, he transformed the organisation from a social network of friends to a development-oriented group and he initiated the National Achievement Awards scheme. For him, stepping down as Chairman a couple of years later doesn’t mean stepping down as a member. His support continues to be crucial to the survival of AWOL. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in a round of applause for the godfather of AWOL, Mr. Moseray Fadika.
(Thank you very much. Thank you very much.)
Furthermore, let me take this opportunity to also acknowledge the support of the Government and People of Sierra Leone, the media and, above all, our dear sponsors. Let me say a special thank you to you Your Excellency President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma for not only supporting positive transformations of Sierra Leone but also, like your predecessor, to thank you for the trust, confidence and belief you have in AWOL as an organisation.
Our sponsors are key to the accomplishment of our programmes. But we have always maintained that sponsoring our programmes is not a criterion to win our awards. Our sponsors are our partners, they believe in what we do and what we are trying to achieve; they are very proud to associate with the AWOL brand and in the end we all share the glory and the satisfaction we derive from making a difference in people’s lives and their communities.
Finally, from Fogbo- a village in Koya Rural, where AWOL intervened when fire gutted about 48 houses and rendered more than 500 people homeless- in January 2010 to this night, I feel accomplished and thus humbly take formal leave of you all as I complete my final term as AWOL Chairman. I thank you all for the support. Thank you to AWOL for giving me the opportunity to serve. Thank you to the people of Sierra Leone.
I wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year 2012.
God bless Sierra Leone.
Thank you.
GOLDEN JUBILEE NATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 2011
ACADEMIC INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR- TERTIARY 2011
Njala
IPAM
COMAHS *(winner)
ACADEMIC INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR- SECONDARY 2011
Sierra Leone Grammar School
Sierra Leone International Mission Secondary School
Annie Walsh Memorial Secondary School *(winner)
SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR 2011
Leone Stars *(winner)
National Amputee Team (Single-leg Amputee Sports Club)
National Female Beach Volleyball Team
PARLIAMENTARIAN OF THE YEAR 2011
Hon. Alimamy Kamara *(winner)
Hon. Calude Kamanda
Hon. Elizabeth Alpha-Lavalie
COUNCIL OF THE YEAR 2011
Bo City Council *(winner)
Kono District Council
Portloko District Council
MINISTRY OF THE YEAR 2011
Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Food Security
Ministry Works, Housing & Infrastructure
Ministry of Mines & Mineral Resources *(winner)
PARASTATAL OF THE YEAR 2011
Sierra Leone Airports Authority
National Revenue Authority
NATCOM *(winner)
MEDIA HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2011 (Print)
Awareness Times *(winner)
Standard Times
The Exclusive
MEDIA HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2011 (Electronic)
Star Radio *(winner)
Universal Radio
Radio Maria
GOLDEN JUBILEE AWARD IN EDUCATION
Prof Redwood Sawyer
Akiwande J. Lasite *(winner)
Prof. Ahmed A. Taqi
GOLDEN JUBILEE SHINING STAR 2011
Mohamed Kallon *(winner)
Jimmy B
Dr. Nana Pratt
PERFORMING ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2011
Shadrack *(winner)
Chubby Assa
Rapture Kids
FINE ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2011
Alusine (Prison Officer) *(winner)
Kwame Harleston (Department of African Studies, FBC)
Madam Luis Metzger
COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY OF THE YEAR 2011
Airtel
Africell*(winner)
SIERRATEL
FINANCIAL INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR 2011
GTBank
Standard Chartered Bank *(winner)
Sierra Leone Rokel Commercial Bank
PETTY TRADER OF THE YEAR 2011
Sarah Sesay aka ‘Pop Corn 500’ of Byrne Street, Kingtom
Tai de Yum at Mountain Cot
Mrs Fatmata Bah nee Kargbo (Cookery woman at Matotoka junction) *(winner)
INDIGENOUS BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2011
Cafe de la Rose
Red Lion Bakery
Kona Lodge *(winner)
MEDICAL PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR 2011
Dr. S.A.S Kargbo (Clinician & Surgeon) *(winner)
Dr. J.C. Boima (Public health specialist)
Dr. Juana Smith (Dir. Malaria Control Prog)
PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR 2011
Hawa Turay *(winner)
Adonis Aboud
LEGAL PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR 2011
Nasirudeen Tejan-Cole Snr *(winner)
Emanuel E.C. Shears Moses
Sulaiman Kabbah Koroma
MILITARY OFFICER OF THE YEAR 2011
Rev, Fr. Capt. DS Lebbie *(winner)
Maj. Al Matturi
Lt. Col. BK Conteh
POLICE OFFICER OF THE YEAR 2011
Mr. UP Kamara (Supt.)
D/PC 7762 Marvie F.A.
ASP Ibrahim Samura, Head of Police Media Relations *(winner)
FIRE FORCE OFICER OF THE YEAR 2011
Sub-officer David J. Macauley
Leading Fireman Alieu Maani Gabisi
Firewoman Aminata Koroma *(winner)
FARMER OF THE YEAR 2011
Sierra Akker Poultry- Sumbuya *(winner)
Hamid Kamara- Cashew Farm in Kambia
Lambaya Agric Business Center- Kenema
POLICE OFFICER OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Mr. UP Kamara (Supt.)
- D/PC 7762 Marvie F.A.
- ASP Ibrahim Samura, Head of Police Media Relations
And the Winner is: ASP Ibrahim SAMURA, Head of Police Media Relations
CITATION:
Enlisted in the Sierra Leone Police Force in 2001, Ibrahim Samura worked briefly in the Operation Support Division (OSD) before he was appointed Deputy Director of Media & Public Relations.
As a result of his exemplary performance in re-defining police-public relations, he was soon appointed Director of Media & Public Relations. Today he is the reliable spokesperson of the Sierra Leone Police Force, running from medium to medium to defend the SLPF’s policies and keeping the public abreast, on a constant basis, with vital information on matters bordering on national security.
ASP Samura became Director of Media when the image of the Police force was battered and at a time when the force was absolutely insensitive to public opinion/views about the policies, activities and operations of the Police.
However, through the key contribution of ASP Samura, the media unit of the Sierra Leone Police Force is today a household name in the country and there are now branches in Bo, Kenema and Makeni, and other major Police divisions, thereby making the public and media accessible to the Police.
PARASTATAL OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Sierra Leone Airports Authority (SLPA)
- National Revenue Authority (NRA)
- National Telecommunications Commission (NATCOM)
And the Winner is: NATCOM
CITATION:
Though one of the youngest regulatory bodies of the telecom sector in Africa established in 2006, the National Telecommunications Commission (NATCOM), has been able to make great impact and quickly gain international recognition, especially during the year under review.
The landmark achievements of NATCOM in 2011include:
- The establishment of 112 national emergency toll-free number.
- The provision of ICT package including wireless hotspots or internet connectivity to Lungi International Airport as part of NATCOM’s rebranding of our ‘international gateway’ to mark Sierra Leone’s 50th Independence Anniversary.
- Provision of ICT package (wireless internet connectivity) including 50 computers, 10 network printers and a satellite dish to Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone; making available great online opportunities to both staff and students and aiding the teaching and learning process on campus.
- The establishment of multi-purpose tele-centers in five districts (Bombali, Tonkolili, Kambia, Pujehun and Kono), thereby providing ICT access to rural communities.
- Capacity building through international and local training courses for staff
- Enforcing compliance with SIM card registration regulations.
- Licensed 3g services.
- Enhancing cyber security through the robust monitoring and prosecution of illegal operators engaged in SIM box fraud thereby depriving the government of huge revenues.
- Fibre optic cable landing by effectively partnering with the Ministry of Information and Communication.
- Increasing tele-density from 17% in 2008 to 30 % to-date.
- Providing support to learning institutions, youth groups, home for the aged, State House, water supply services, Guma Valley, the SLBC, the Sierra Leone Police Force, to name but a few.
- Ensuring interference-free broadcasting on the FM band throughout the territory of sierra Leone.
- Providing support to the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC).
ACADEMIC INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR 2011 (TERTIARY)
The nominees are:
- Njala
- IPAM
- COMAHS
And the Winner is: College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS)
CITATION:
COMAHS, as a constituent arm of the University of Sierra Leone, has incorporated the National School of Nursing which is now a Faculty of Nursing, and the Pharmacy Technician School which has become part of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
COMAHS produces Doctors, Pharmacists, Nurses and Medical Laboratory Scientists who are helping in the promotion of the free health care and service delivery in the country geared towards the enhancement of the Millennium Development Goals. Most of these doctors, nurses, pharmacists, medical laboratory scientists have almost taken over the work and management of most of the hospitals in the country.
The introduction of new courses and programmes in Basic Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing have not only helped to address the seemingly perennial problem of the lack in mental health personnel, improve on the psychiatric health services being currently delivered in the country, but has also led to more than 90% of our medical practitioners now staying in Sierra Leone instead of seeking greener pastures abroad.
Furthermore, we are now consoled by the fact that when the only psychiatric doctor in the country retires, he will be replaced by other competent staff trained by COMAHS.
The College has a record of discipline among staff and students, in lectures, sports and student Union Elections such that violence has never been part of their vocabulary.
INDIGENOUS BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Cafe de la Rose
- Red Lion Bakery
- Kona Lodge
And the winner is: Kona LODGE
CITATION:
Named after the mother of its Proprietor, and situated on King Street, at the Maze Wilberforce, Freetown, Kona Lodge is opened 24 hrs and employs more than 70 all-Sierra Leonean staff, mostly youths.
It boasts 28 rooms, a restaurant, and a conference center that caters for more than 350 people.
Employees of Kona Lodge are highly trained in customer service and they take pride in their daily responsibilities to ensure quality service delivery.
Kona Lodge has expanded into Kona Lodge and Kona Investment and Construction Company and is spreading into the provinces, especially in the Southern Province, where it continues to employ youths.
As way to give back a share of its profit to the community, Kona Lodge has established a foundation called Betty Kona Foundation whereby scholarships are provided for the less privileged students from primary through University Education.
FARMER OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Sierra Akker Poultry- Sumbuya
- Hamid Kamara- Cashew Farm in Kambia
- Lambayama Agric Business Center- Kenema
And the winner is: sierra AKKER AGRICULTURAL COMPANY Ltd.
CITATION:
Established in 2010 and housed on fourty acres of land at Sumbuya Village in the Koya Chiefdom, Port Loko District in Northern Sierra Leone, Sierra Akker Agricultural Company Ltd has become the leading producer and supplier of quality poultry products not only for local consumption but for export to the sub-region as well.
Their intervention has hugely reduced the importation of foreign eggs, frozen chickens and other poultry products and has enhanced the drive to achieve food security for all Sierra Leoneans.
Apart from creating job opportunities for our youths and University graduates, Sierra Akker Agricultural Company Ltd also serves as a centre for scholarly research and internship for University students/scholars pursuing poultry as a career.
In the area of Corporate Social Responsibility, the company renovated a health post in the Sumbuya community and supports it annually with 50, 000 Euros worth of medication from the Netherlands.
MILITARY OFFICER OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Rev. Fr. Capt. DS Lebbie
- Maj. Al Matturi
- Lt. Col. BK Conteh
And the Winner is: rev, fr. capt. D.S. LEBBIE
CITATION:
Commissioned on 18th April, 2008 as a Catholic Padre in the Chaplain Department, Rev. Fr. Capt DS Lebbie’s first assignment was HQ 5 Brigade where he facilitated the establishment of a Catholic Community Church and Inter-religious dialogue between the Catholics and Muslims, and with other faiths.
In 2009 he was posted to HQ4 Brigade and he is the current Brigade Padre and Principal for the newly established Saint Andrews Junior Secondary School situated at Teko Barracks.
Rev. Fr. Capt. DS Lebbie has contributed greatly in the promotion of education in Teko Barracks, improved the spiritual and moral life of service personnel and their dependants, enhanced good working relations between the Holy Spirit Hospital and the Brigade MI Room, and provided health care materials for personnel and their dependants.
The rev. Capt. DS Lebbie is revered for his honesty, diligence, tolerance and charismatic disposition.
MINISTRY OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Food Security
- Ministry Works, Housing & Infrastructure
- Ministry of Mines & Mineral Resources
And the Winner is: ministry of MINES & MINERAL RESOURCES
CITATION:
In its bid to attract foreign investors, the Ministry of Mines & Mineral Resources recently launched an online repository that serves to provide information to the world about Sierra Leone’s geological potentials, available concessions, mode of application for mining rights, requirements, mineral rights holders, what they pay, etc.
This makes Sierra Leone the first and only country in Sub-Saharan Africa with such high level transparency in the extractives sector.
Most importantly, the Ministry has spearheaded the rejuvenation of the mineral industry in Sierra Leone, which has led to increased contribution to the country’s GDP and a potential overtake of the Agriculture sector as the highest contributor to the GDP in the not too distant future.
The Mines & Mineral Resources ministry is the most transparent ministry. It is the only ministry in Sierra Leone that publishes what it receives from its clients.
PETTY TRADER OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Sarah Sesay aka ‘Pop Corn 500’ of Byrne Street, Kingtom
- Tai de Yum at Mountain Cot
- Mrs Fatmata Bah nee Kargbo (Cookery woman at Matotoka junction)
And the Winner is: mrs fatmata BAH nee KARGBO
She started her petty trading in 1987 with a bag of rice given to her by her sister-in-law. With only thatch on the roof of a makeshift structure, she toiled day and night to make ends meet.
During the peak of the infamous civil war, she was providing food for refugees from Kono District.
From her meagre earnings, she educated all of her seven children and has built a modern house at Matotoka. Three of her children are University graduates employed by credible institutions in Freetown. She currently employs four people to help her care for her numerous customers.
Mrs. Fatmata Bah was born 65 years ago at Matotoka, Tonkolili District. She’s married to Munini Bah and is blessed with seven children most of who are University graduates.
PARLIAMENTARIAN OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Hon. Alimamy Kamara
- Hon. Calude Kamanda
- Hon. Elizabeth Alpha-Lavalie
And the Winner is: hon. alimamy KAMARA
CITATION:
The Hon. Member of Parliament for Constituency 29 has been working assiduously for his constituents and the People of Sierra Leone.
A seasoned orator, Hon. Kamara is a regular contributor to parliamentary debates. He has manifested his ability to effectively serve as a Parliamentarian executing his duties as per the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone.
He has during the year served well in the Parliamentary Committees he is member of, especially the Committee on Finance.
He has a regular radio programme to address and update his constituents on a weekly basis.
He has also responded to the President’s call to support and promote agriculture and he today operates one of the largest farms in the North of Sierra Leone.
The Hon. Alimamy Kamara is a nationalist who believes in Sierra Leone and Sierra Leoneans.
FIRE FORCE OFICER OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Sub-officer David J. Macauley
- Leading Fireman Alieu Maani Gabisi
- Firewoman Aminata Koroma
And the Winner is: firewoman aminata KOROMA
CITATION:
Firewoman Aminata Koroma was enlisted into the Fire Service on the 23rd April 2007 as a recruit firewoman.
After she passed out she was posted to the Operational Section where she is performing remarkably well and gained much experience in fire fighting and extinction.
She was posted to Blue Watch as a branch carrier due to her stamina and hard work. She is dedicated, trustworthy, diligent, honest, hard working, and courageous and has team spirit.
In fact, she is in line for the forthcoming promotions in the National Fire Force.
ACADEMIC INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR 2011 (SECONDARY)
The nominees are:
- Sierra Leone Grammar School
- Sierra Leone International Mission Secondary School
- Annie Walsh Memorial Secondary School
And the Winner is: annie walsh MEMORIAL SCHOOL
CITATION:
The Annie Walsh Memorial School has, despite its location at the heart of the business center of Freetown, continues to maintain standards and discipline.
The school academic record this year has been exemplary. The results for both the BECE and WASSCE exams were excellent, with 336 passes out of 345 pupils in the BECE exams.
Moreover, most female students admitted into the Universities this year with good results and discipline record, are from the Annie Walsh Memorial School.
MEDICAL PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Dr. S.A.S Kargbo (Clinician & Surgeon)
- Dr. J.C. Boima (Public health specialist)
- Dr. Juana Smith (Dir. Malaria Control Prog)
And the Winner is: dr. s.a.s KARGBO
A public health specialist from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom, Dr. S.A.S Kargbo designed and introduced the Birth Waiting Homes Idea as a strategy to eliminate the delay of pregnant women in reaching emergency obstetric care and also introduced the Treatment-Before-Payment policy at the Kabala Government Hospital, thereby considerably reducing the number of maternal and child deaths in the district.
He promoted the establishment of the Pregnant Woman Support Groups; a program that is based on a positive-deviant model, whereby a woman who has successfully given birth to healthy children is used as a trainer for women who are currently pregnant.
He also promoted the establishment of the Village Savings and Loans scheme which started as a health insurance scheme but has now been extended to cater for education especially for girls, to agriculture and other social amenities.
As Director of Reproductive and Child Health, he pioneered the development of the Basic Package of Essential Health Services (BPEHS) for Sierra Leone, a document that provides the operational dimensions of health policy objectives.
Dr. S.A.S Kargbo is a leading member of the Steering Group for Strategy, Vision and Governance for the introduction of the Free Health Care Initiative of H.E. President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma for pregnant women, lactating mothers and children under five in Sierra Leone.
SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Leone Stars
- National Amputee Team (Single-leg Amputee Sports Club)
- National Female Beach Volleyball Team
And the Winner is: leone STARS
CITATION:
During the qualifying rounds for the African Cup of nations tournament to be held in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea in January 2012, the senior national football team of Sierra Leone, Leone Stars, played six matches, won two (against Niger and defending champions Egypt at home); drew 3- against South Africa home and away and Egypt away.
Leone Stars only lost one match away to Niger in the campaign.
Quite recently, Leone Stars was recognised by FIFA as the Best Mover in world football and are currently 60th in the world and 11th in Africa in the current rankings.
These rankings have opened the doors for Sierra Leonean footballers to secure lucrative professional contracts in Europe and putting Sierra Leonean football on the world map.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD IN LEADERSHIP
His Excellency the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma
CITATION:
Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, a great son of the soil, is himself an epitome of exemplary leadership as he is calm, dynamic, tolerant and visionary.
He has never relented or missed an opportunity to practically demonstrate these enviable leadership qualities in discharging his functions of State management since assuming the reins of government in 2007.
His unwavering commitment to democratic consolidation was demonstrated firstly in his pioneered national development blueprint for the country- the Agenda for Change.
Though the Agenda for Change prioritised energy, agriculture, infrastructure and sustainable human development, it is anchored on the principles of good governance, peace, security and hence good leadership.
As leader of this great nation, Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma made an unprecedented mark in nurturing, strengthening and sustaining democratic institutions like the Africa Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), Open Government Initiative (OGI), the Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) among many others.
His stride in transforming the SLBS into SLBC is indeed a remarkable leadership initiative. This move is unprecedented, especially in the continent where incumbent leaders find it very difficult to let go public broadcasting.
He has also played and continues to play an important role in promoting women empowerment. He took the groundbreaking decision as the first Head of State to appoint a female as Chief Justice. This is no mean achievement, particularly in a country where women have been relegated to the backburner when it comes to governance.
His visionary leadership witnessed the passing of the three popular gender bills known as the Liberation Acts as they contain sweeping reforms that provide the legal context for redressing injustices against women.
His launching of the free health care initiative as well as the massive infrastructural development strides are all pointers to his leadership qualities and his government’s commitment to national development.
COUNCIL OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Bo City Council
- Kono District Council
- Portloko District Council
And the Winner is: bo city COUNCIL
CITATION:
In the year 2001 the Bo City Council demonstrated good leadership in the management of local development and governance, and more importantly, in the delivery of basic services to the people of Bo City.
The Council has recently procured two buses to ease the transportation problems in the city, rehabilitated the Coronation Field and has also cooperated with Central Government to rehabilitate roads within and outside the city.
Additionally, the Council has improved tremendously on its revenue generation capacity which is an important indicator for the effective realisation of some of the core tenets and principles of decentralisation.
The Council excelled and took 1st position in the 2011 Comprehensive Local Government Assessment undertaken by the Decentralisation Secretariat to evaluate, among other things, local Councils’ adherence to structures, procedures and processes enshrined in the Local Government Act and other related legislation; performance of key technical and professional functions as well as the delivery of basic services to the people in the localities.
Furthermore, according to reports from the Public Accountability Committee in Parliament, the Bo City Council is one of few adjudged to have satisfactorily complied with most processes and procedures stipulated by law.
YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2011 (NPSE)
The Winner is: alimamy rasin WURIE of International Primary School, Jomo Kenyatta Road, Freetown.
CITATION:
Alimamy Rasin Wurie is the best candidate for NPSE 2011; scoring aggregate 375.
He is now a student of International Secondary School, Jomo Kenyatta Road.
Scores:
Quantitative Aptitude- 73
Verbal Aptitude- 68
Mathematics- 70
English Language- 99
General Studies- 65
YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2011 (BECE)- I
The Winner is: vaafoulay KANNEH of Sierra Leone Grammar School
CITATION:
Vaafoulay Kanneh is one of two best candidates for BECE 2011, scoring aggregate 6.
Scores:
Integrated Science- 1
Language Arts- 1
Mathematics- 1
Social Studies- 1
Agricultural Science- 1
RME- 1
Introductory Technology- 1
Creative Practical Arts- 1
YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2011 (BECE)- II
The Winner is: sento kai KARGBO of St. Joseph Secondary School.
CITATION:
Sento Kai Kargbo is one of two best candidates for BECE 2011, also scoring aggregate 6.
She is now a student of Modern High School, Jomo Kenyatta Road.
Scores:
Integrated Science- 1
Language Arts- 1
Mathematics- 1
Social Studies- 1
Agricultural Science- 1
French- 1
Business Studies- 2
Home Economics- 1
YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2011 (WASSCE)
The Winner is: valena McEWEN of International Secondary School, Jomo Kenyatta Road, Freetown.
CITATION:
Valena Mcewen is best candidate for WASSCE 2011, scoring the following grades:
English Language (Core)- B2
French- B2
Literature in English- A1
Mathematics (Core)- B3
Economics- B3
Biology- C4
Management in Living- A1
Principle of Cost Accounting- A1
Financial Accounting- A1
GOLDEN JUBILEE SHINING STAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Mohamed Kallon
- Jimmy B
- Dr. Nana Pratt
And the Winner is: mohamed KALLON
Mohamed Kallon is consideredthe most famous footballer from Sierra Leone.
He became a great star as a result of hard work, diligence and commitment to his career as a footballer.
At home in Sierra Leone he served as Captain for the senior national side Leone Stars and contributed immensely to the development of football at all levels. He sacrificed financially to ensure his country is represented in all important international tournaments.
His love and passion for the beautiful game led him to establish his own football team named after him, FC Kallon, which is playing in the country’s Premier League.
Through his international connections, Mohamed Kallon has helped other talented Sierra Leonean footballers to secure professional contracts abroad.
COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Airtel
- Africell
- SIERRATEL
And the Winner is: AFRICELL
In 2011 Africell was outstanding in its creative promotions and fulfilment of its corporate social responsibility.
Highlights of this include:
Promotions-
Africell ‘Pik U Gentri’- 400+ winners
Africell Valentine TV and Radio show- 400+ winners
Africell ‘Gentri na we domot’ for Freetown and ‘Money na we domot ‘ for the Provinces- 1000+ winners
Five Africell Hajj packages
Launching of 3G services till 2012, for the first time in Sierra Leone
Gentri with Africell Father Christmas- 500+ winners
Corporate Social responsibility:
- Sponsorship of Africell Premier League 2011 and donation of Le40m to SLFA for match against South Africa.
- Africell contributes to the construction of a school at Tokeh village
- Launching of the ‘I Love Salone, Na Wi Kontri’ campaign for Sierra Leone 50th Anniversary celebration
- Presentation of scholarship to University of Makeni
- Awarding scholarships Shenge boat disaster beneficiaries
- Beautification of the Freetown Country for the 50th Independence Anniversary
- Construction of modern Makeni Clock Tower
- Donation to the Wilberforce Community in celebration of Salone @ 50
- Supported the Sierra Leone Red Cross Society in celebrating the World Red Cross day at Lumley beach
And many more…
FINE ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2011
The nominees are:
- Alusine Bangura (Prison Officer)
- Kwame Harleston (Department of African Studies, FBC)
- Madam Luis Metzger
And the Winner is: prison officer alusine BANGURA
Enlisted in the Prison service on 22nd May 1975 as 3 CPO, and rose through the ranks to become deputy superintendent, Alusine Bangura has won several artistic awards over the years, including:
Akibo Betts award for best artist in 1988.
Progress award 1993 for best artist
Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce artist of the year award 1994
TBS artist of the year award 1995
Best pictoral artist of the year 1994, awarded by Cpt Valentine Strasser at the same time elevated from the rank of Sergeant to Chief Officer.
Illustrator of Sir Henry Lightfoot Boston and King Naimbana on the Fifty and Hundred Leone coins.
Jointly participated in the design and beautification of the RSLAF first of its kind peace monument between the Cotton Tree and State House.
Now as technical instructor at Prison, has been engaged in teaching arts and crafts to prisoners, skills that up till today earn them meaningful occupation and income after serving their prison sentences.
Has taken his beautification and pictorial and illustrative skills beyond Sierra Leone boarders to places like The Gambia, Senegal and Kenya.
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