Address the Kush Pandemic: Disrupt the Chain, Rehabilitate Victims Sierra Leone – March 25th, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sierra Leone – March 25th, 2024

In light of the devastating impact of the Kush substance on the youth of Sierra Leone, Chozen Generation
Sierra Leone (CGSL) urges immediate action to address the crisis. Recent events, including the burial of 32
young individuals suspected to have succumbed to Kush-related causes, underscore the urgent need for
government intervention. With an estimated 2000 victims in psychiatric facilities and countless more on the
streets, it is imperative that all stakeholders unite to combat this epidemic.

CGSL acknowledges that the true victims of the Kush pandemic are the youth ensnared by its grip, while the
root problem lies with the dealers and profiteers exploiting their vulnerability. Therefore, concerted efforts
must be directed towards disrupting the supply chain and providing comprehensive support for
rehabilitation.

At this critical juncture, the government must demonstrate proactive leadership by declaring the situation
a public health emergency. This declaration should be followed by concrete actions, including the allocation
of resources to bolster the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Collaboration between
authorities and communities is essential to gather intelligence, apprehend dealers, and ensure swift
prosecution.

Moreover, CGSL calls for enhanced support for psychiatric facilities, including adequate facilities, medical
supplies, therapeutic programs, and safety measures. Community engagement is paramount for successful
rehabilitation and reintegration efforts.

To those involved in the illicit trade of Kush, CGSL issues a stern condemnation. Your actions are not only
reprehensible but also detrimental to the nation’s development. The suffering inflicted upon families and
communities by this trade is immeasurable, and those complicit will face the consequences of their deeds.

CGSL also appeals to the conscience of citizens, urging an end to stigmatization and the promotion of
empathy towards Kush victims. These individuals are in dire need of assistance and compassion as they
strive to break free from the grip of addiction.

Chozen Generation Sierra Leone is committed to playing its part in combating this crisis. We have already
provided psychosocial support and essential resources to affected individuals, and we call upon other
organizations and institutions to join us in this endeavor.

In the coming days, CGSL will expand its outreach efforts to engage with communities heavily impacted by
the Kush pandemic, including Kroobay, Congo Town, and Lumley.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Abdul Sillah
CHOZEN GENERATION SIERRA LEONE
Address: 82 Pademba Road , F/Town
Phone: +23276250501 +23276576717
Email: admin@chozengenerationsl.org
Website: http://chozengenerationsl.org
Communication Coordinator
+23276619299

Note to Editors:
Chozen Generation is a community of young leaders who are making a difference in Sierra Leone.
Victims of Kush often express a desire to quit but feel trapped by their circumstances.
The Kush pandemic has far-reaching effects on Sierra Leone’s society and economy.
There are reports of children being involved in the Kush trade, although evidence is lacking.

 

Press Release – Cut the Kush Chain

Chozen Generation Sierra Leone Addresses Political Polarization and Outlines Vision for 2024 in Second Annual Conference

Freetown, 27th January 2024

Chozen Generation Sierra Leone (CGSL) recently concluded its second Annual General Conference in Freetown. The conference, held last weekend, served as a platform for reflection on the events of 2023, strategic planning for 2024, and robust discussions on issues affecting Sierra Leone’s youth.

Under the theme “RENEWING HOPE: Youth-Led Solutions to Political Polarization,” CGSL members engaged in thoughtful deliberations and brainstorming sessions to address the growing political divide in the country. Political expert Amasara Jalloh and Peace activist Abdulai Kpaka contributed valuable insights, emphasizing that political polarization is fueled by a few selfish individuals seeking to undermine the potential of promising youths.

A significant part of the conference was dedicated to addressing societal challenges, including the menacing issue of drug abuse, with a focus on minimizing the impact of substances like “kush.” Participants also explored ways to mentor young people, providing them with platforms to network, share ideas, and prosper both intellectually and financially.

Internally, CGSL conducted a comprehensive review of its activities in 2023, allowing members to voice their expectations for the organization in the coming year. The discussions centered on taking a more active role in national advocacy and introducing initiatives like the “Public Buses Watch Dog ” program, initially launched in 2015 to oversee government-purchased public buses.

Founder and former CGSL coordinator, Joel Abdulai Kallon, delivered a brief but impactful talk on leadership, encouraging members to set ambitious goals, maintain discipline, be intentional, and persevere in their pursuits.

National Coordinator Harry Henry Kargbo, reflecting on his two-year tenure, described the occasion as momentous. Despite facing challenges, Kargbo expressed satisfaction in the progress made by the organization, citing successful events such as the annual games night, local tourism initiatives, training and empowerment programs, and academic excellence initiatives.

The organization awarded its best members for the past two years and conducted the election of the organization’s executive and senate. Harry Henry Kargbo retained his position as National Coordinator, along with Abdul Sillah as Communication Coordinator, James Thaduba Conteh as Admin Coordinator and Musa Mansaray as Welfare Coordinator. Tracy Jac During was elected as the new Deputy National Coordinator, Adama Benya as the Finance Coordinator, and Abdul Malik Sawaneh as the Programs Coordinator.

CGSL Announces Ten Most Outstanding Sierra Leoneans 2022

Chozen Generation Sierra Leone is delighted to announce that it has concluded all the stages of
the Ten Most Outstanding Sierra Leoneans Award and has arrived at a list of nine Sierra Leoneans (not 10 for 2022 because winner declined the award due to personal reasons) who used their services, businesses or crafts to inspire change and to help build the much-craved positive image of Sierra Leone in 2022.
Every year, we start this process by asking you (the public) to nominate Sierra Leoneans who you know performed exceptionally in their field of work in the year under review. For the 2022 for her contributions towards the professional development of young people through her Job Search platform award, we received hundreds of nominations and set up a committee of seven professionals (in various walks of life) who take your nominations to the next level – conducted
background checks and using indices (Leadership track record, Patriotism/Love for Sierra Leone, Accomplishment in 2022, National impact/reach, General suitability for the award) to score each candidate The 2022 final list comprises entrepreneurs, religious leaders, medical personnel, philanthropists, a musician. The collection shows Sierra Leoneans in all walks of life who are leading by example and creating an impact in their area of work.
“Congratulations to all the winners. Being recognized as one of the most outstanding Sierra Leoneans is no small feat. Irrespective of the fact that 2022 was a challenging year, Sierra Leoneans managed to perform exceptionally in their respective disciplines and touched lives. compatriots saw their work and recognized its impact. CGSL is just here to ensure that the respective exceptional performers know that Sierra Leoneans see them and are grateful for their great work that is impacting in and out of Sierra Leone,” said CGSL National Coordinator, Harry Henry Kargbo
The ten most outstanding Sierra Leoneans in alphabetical order for the year 2022.

Abimbola Carol – Entrepreneur
For his commitment and dedication to Sierra Leone’s tourism sector through his Visit Sierra Leone company and for his role in bringing the Budafest-Bamako Rally to Salone.
Edleen Elba – Entrepreneur
For her contributions towards the professional development of young people through her Job Search platform.
Dr. John Lavalie – Medical Doctor
For his commitment to saving lives by performing a number of lifesaving surgeries for the Sick Pikin project.
Rev. Father Peter Conteh – Religious Leader/NGO
For his commitment and dedication to serving humanity through a number of projects undertaken by Caritas Freetown.
Sheik Abdul Rahman Tejan Bangura – Religious Leader/Philanthropist 
For his dedication and service to humanity with a number of philanthropic achievements.
Tamba Mathew Gbessay – School Proprietor
For his commitment and dedication to supporting disabled children in his community, especially with the establishment of a School for the Blind in Kono.
Thomas Babadi Kamara – Entrepreneur
For his unwavering contributions to the growth of football in Sierra Leone especially with the construction of an international standard mini stadium-Southern Arena in Bo.
Tunde Cole – Entrepreneur
For his contribution to education with the donation of a brand-new building to Fourah Bay College University of Sierra Leone.
 Usifu Jalloh – Entertainment/Storyteller
For his passion for storytelling and keeping the African culture of storytelling alive especially working with the Patriotic Advocacy Network to conduct a nationwide storytelling festival.
About the Ten Most Outstanding Awards
The Ten Most Outstanding Sierra Leonean Award is an award given out by Chozen Generation Sierra Leonean – a youthful Sierra Leonean group of professionals –to recognize Sierra Leoneans who raised the country’s flag high or helped their community in the year under review

 

2023 TEN MOST OUTSTANDING SIERRA LEONEANS NOMINATION FORM

CGSL National Debating Championship for Girls Quarterfinals: Intellectual Clashes and Empowered Voices Take Center Stage


The quarterfinals of the National Debating Championship for Girls 2023 have arrived, bringing together eight exceptional schools in exhilarating intellectual showdowns. As the competition intensifies, the debates continue to challenge norms, advocate for empowerment, and embrace the importance of online safety, reproductive health, gender equality, and more.
On Thursday, May 25, 2023, Malama Comprehensive will engage in a clash of ideas with The International School Limited. The topic at hand will be “Online safety measures should be integrated into school curriculums.” Expect a thought-provoking discussion on the crucial need to equip students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital world safely.
Simultaneously, Government Model Secondary School will lock horns with Beacon High School on the topic “Sexual and reproductive health should be taught in schools.” This debate promises to shed light on the significance of comprehensive sexual education in promoting healthy relationships, informed choices, and the well-being of young individuals.
Friday, May 26, 2023, will witness another round of captivating debates. Saint Joseph’s Convent will tackle Providence International on the topic “Marriage is a patriarchal institution.” Brace yourselves for an engaging discourse that explores the dynamics of marriage and its impact on gender equality, societal expectations, and personal freedoms.
Simultaneously, Methodist Girls High School will face off against John F. Kennedy School, debating the topic “The two major religions gravely undermine the empowerment of women.” This debate will delve into the intersection of religion, cultural norms, and women’s empowerment, offering insightful perspectives on the challenges and potential solutions.
Amidst the excitement, it is worth highlighting the remarkable efforts of Marigold, an organization dedicated to supporting girls in their journey toward technological development and online safety. As a proud sponsor of the National Debating Championship for Girls, Marigold empowers young women, equipping them with essential skills to thrive in the digital age.
Marigold’s commitment to bridging the gender gap in technology aligns seamlessly with the championship’s vision of breaking barriers and amplifying girls’ voices. By providing valuable technological resources and education on online safety, Marigold empowers participants to become savvy digital citizens and champions of change.
As we eagerly anticipate the quarterfinal battles, let us celebrate the determination, intellect, and passion exhibited by these remarkable young debaters. Their voices will shape narratives, challenge stereotypes, and inspire a brighter, more inclusive future. Together, let us support these exceptional young women.

Leone Stars, 9 exceptional Sierra Leoneans win CGSL award

The Sierra Leone National Football team is among Chozen Generation Sierra Leone (CGSL) Ten Most Outstanding Sierra Leoneans for 2021. The team is awarded for representing Sierra Leone in the 2021 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

In a release dated 22, December 2022, CGSL announced that it has completed the award criteria and it is ‘delighted to announce a list of the 10 Sierra Leoneans who used their services, businesses or crafts to inspire change and to help build the much-craved positive image of Sierra Leone in 2021.

CGSL started this platform in 2017 for Sierra Leoneans to recognize and reward their compatriot who have worked diligently in all walks of life in the year under review.

Leone Stars Head Coach, John Keister, is also awarded for guiding the team to its second AFCON. Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, Sierra Leone Association of Journalists President; Kabaka, Drizilik, AYV Amb. Anthony Navo Jr; Barrister Sorie Sengbeh and entrepreneurs Alhaji Ahmed Siraj Bah, Augustine Sensei Bangura, Mary-Ann Kai Kai are the other winners of the award.

After nominations from the public, the organization checked Leadership track record, Patriotism, Accomplishment in 2021, National impact/reach and General suitability for the award, to score hundreds of nominated candidates and ultimately cut it down to the final ten.

“The 2021 final list comprises Journalists, lawyers, musicians, environmentalists, a football team, fashion designers and entrepreneurs. The collection shows Sierra Leoneans in all walks of life are leading by example and creating an impact in their area of work,” the release stated

“We do this to recognize Sierra Leoneans from all walks of life. We want to encourage them to keep doing what they are doing and to improve on it for the betterment of the country. We have seen many countries around the world celebrate their own, but we do little of that in Sierra Leone” said CGSL National Coordinator, Harry Henry Kargbo

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla – Journalist, is awarded for successfully lobbying the government to expunge the obsolete part five of the Public Order Act, whilst Augustine Sorie Sengbeh Marrah – Lawyer and civil rights activist, is awarded for defending the Sierra Leone Constitution and relentlessly speaking truth to power amidst intimidation.

Abu Bakarr Turay (Kabaka) – Lawyer and entrepreneur is awarded for promoting Sierra Leonean musical talents through KME and for creating inroads for Sierra Leone at the continental and global music arena through ECOFEST, whilst Benjamin Menelik George – Drizilik, is awarded for consistently finding and showcasing Sierra Leonean Sounds and culture to the continent and the world.

Amb. Anthony Navo Jr – Entrepreneur is awarded for creating the space for young people to showcase and improve their talents and for his s

trides to showcase Sierra Leone’s authentic culture and stories to the world through the AYV on DSTV initiative

Alhaji Ahmed Siraj Bah – Entrepreneur is awarded for his innovative ideas towards protecting the environment. Augustine Sensei Bangura – Entrepreneur is awarded for his strides in combating hunger and malnutrition in the African continent and Mary-Ann Kai Kai – Entrepreneur is awarded for recreating Sierra Leone clothing brand and for supporting girls.

Download Press Release:TMOS Press Release

CGSL Presents Award of Excellence to 2022 Best NPSE pupil

A cross-section of the Chozen Generation Sierra Leone (CGSL) Executive has presented the Award of Excellence to Lorraine Pabs – Garnon, the best National Primary School Examination (NPSE) Pupil for 2022.

CGSL National Coordinator, Harry Henry Kargbo, handed Lorraine the award on Monday 19 September 2022 at the International School compound – Jomo Kenyatta Road, Freetown – during the school’s morning assembly.

Pabs-Garnon scored 337 in the 2022 NPSE, topping the 161,524 candidates that attempted this year’s examination.

“I feel very proud of myself and I am happy that I came first in the NPSE. I hope I continue to do well in my school work. I thank my parents and teachers for investing their time and effort in me. I dedicate this award to them,” Lorraine said

“I want to become a doctor after school. I want to help my people. I want to improve the health care system in the country.

“My message to my colleagues is that in order to go through or pass any examination, you must always be yourself, stay calm, read your notes very well and always crosscheck after you are done.”

In his short statement during the presentation, CGSL Mr. Kargbo said that the organization started giving out the Award of Excellence in 2020. He said the rationale behind the award is to recognize and celebrate hard work and excellence in Sierra Leone.

 

“Chozen Generation is a group of young professionals. We aim to train leaders in the spirit of hard work and excellence for the benefit of Sierra Leone. To achieve that, we believe we should identify and nurture leaders from a very young age as such, Mr. Kargbo said.

“We do this to inspire hardworking people, especially young people. We want them to be assured that if they strive for the top and attain excellence in the process, Chozen Generation will recognize and celebrate them and CGSL will continue to promote excellence in every facet of society.”

CGSL Awards Best NPSE Pupil

A cross section of the CGSL Executive presented the award of excellence to the best National Primary School Examination Pupil for 2022 this morning.

Chozen Generation  presented the award to Lorraine Pabs -Carnon at her school – The International School at Jomo Kenyatta Road – during the school’s morning assembly.

Lorraine, her mother and the entire school are happy for the award and thanked CGSL for the initiative and gesture.

Lorraine wants to be a doctor and she said the award is just another motivation towards her goal. We wish her all the best on her journey.

The National Coordinator expresses his heartfelt appreciation to all those who attended the event and supported it in diverse ways.

CGSL will continue to promote excellence in every facet of society.

Seven (7) CGSL Members Complete University of Oxford’s Introduction To Sustainable Finance Course

The National Coordinator of Chozen Generation Sierra Leone (CGSL), Harry Henry Kargbo and six other members have completed a ten-week virtual training in Sustainable Finance. The course, which is designed by the Oxford Sustainable Finance Group, University of Oxford and delivered in partnership with Apolitical, started in July and ended on Friday 9th September 2022.

Sustainable Finance is the process of taking into account Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations when making investment decisions in the financial sector. It delivers financial returns in the short and long term while generating positive value for society.

The course equipped participants with a foundational understanding of sustainable finance as an emerging field. It attracted public servants and third sector representatives across the world.

The African Development Bank nominated CGSL for this opportunity earlier this year.

Thanks to this nomination, the Oxford Sustainable Finance Group offered seven scholarship slots worth 500 British Pounds each to CGSL. Joel Abdulai Kallon, Adama Benya, Hannah Iye Conteh, Mohamed Yateh, Mohamed Adams Sesay and Umaro Jalloh are the other beneficiaries.

“As an economist who believes in green-economy, the sustainable finance course by Oxford University exposed me to know how sectoral operations (Environment Social and Governance) work as a unit for a better world, Harry Henry Kargbo said. It further armed me with the value-driven Social Responsible Investment strategies that are needed to deliver sustainable projects.”

 

Joel Abdulai Kallon noted that “The training was educative and impactful. It has enabled me to more fully appreciate the link between climate-friendly investment and a sustainable environment and the role that investment portfolio managers, governments, central banks, corporate boards, and civil society can play in shaping the future of our world.

 I am confident that this course will positively influence Chozen Generation’s climate and environment-related advocacy, going forward.”

Adama Benya said “During this training, I have learnt a lot about finance and sustainability as well as the distribution of finance and how financial investments can impact the sustainability of a country. I was also opportuned to learn about global financial institutions and the important role that they play in shaping the global financial sector.”

All seven members received certificates of achievement to mark the successful completion of the course.

CGSL remains committed to empowering young people through relevant training and networking opportunities to build their capacities and contribute to Sierra Leone’s development.

 

 

BEYOND THE SYMPTOMS: ADDRESSING THE UNDERLYING CAUSES OF YOUTH VIOLENCE IN SIERRA LEONE

                                          CGSL International Youth Day Message 

Fellow Sierra Leoneans,
Today is International Youth Day (IYD) and Chozen Generation Sierra Leone (CGSL) joins the rest of the world to draw attention to the myriad of issues that continue to prevent young people from reaching their full potential.

Sierra Leone is in the spotlight again following the August 10 violent demonstrations in Freetown and other parts of the country which resulted in several needless loss of lives, including those of youths and security personnel.

Chozen Generation Sierra Leone (CGSL) as a youth leadership organization is in great distress over this tragedy and wish to use this day to mourn our compatriots.

We condemn violence in every form and believe it is by no means an option for a solution to anything.
This year’s IYD theme: “Intergenerational Solidarity; Creating A World for All Ages” is apt with Sierra Leone’s current situation. We believe the protest and consequences thereof are symptoms of many underlying issues affecting young people in the country.

The dynamics of what unfolded on August 10 are complex and diverse, and even though we leave all investigations to the relevant authorities (and hope they are impartial and independent), we know for sure that in the midst of hardship and loss of hope, youths were caught up between expressing their genuine concerns and being used as pawns by selfish politicians.

We are concerned that operatives of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party have routinely whipped up tribal and regional sentiments to widen the divide and promote violence with a usually catastrophic outcome, especially for young people.

“We need to support young people with massive investments in education and skills-building…It’s not enough to listen to young people — we need to integrate them into decision-making mechanisms at the local, national and international levels,” Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General.

Youths can become more and contribute more if they are given the platform to learn and express themselves.

While it is convenient to describe the August 10 demonstrations as the result of political machinations only, we think such a univariate analysis of events is lazy and unhelpful. We believe the underlying causes
of the August 10 tragedy are complex and multifaceted and many well-meaning Sierra Leoneans have been sounding the alarm for some time now.

We believe that, given Sierra Leone’s high youth population, the high levels of unemployment and the harsh economic climate have always created a potentially fertile opportunity for chaos. We also think the question of why this happened now is naive. As a matter of fact, we believe it has been a matter of sheer luck that we had not witnessed this much earlier. To the careful observer, the signs had been obvious and persistent. The cost of living is at an all-time high, pushing many Sierra Leoneans, especially young people further into poverty. Fueled by rabid, politically inspired tribal slurs and hate speeches mostly on social media, the ethno-regional divide had been widening. Even when shreds of evidence abound, complaints of police high-handedness and corruption have often not received the sort of response that would engender trust in that vital state institution.

To exacerbate an already tense and volatile situation, the government has often been slow, unable or unwilling to provide timely and adequate information to its citizens creating a communication asymmetry that has been exploited by rogue elements.

We, therefore, conclude by submitting that the blame for Sierra Leone’s current fragility should be shared by all of us, not just those desperate, drug-induced, politically manipulated youths.

The blood of all the innocent lives lost are in our hands – every government official or civil servant who steals state resources and deprives millions of Sierra Leoneans of a decent life; every business owner who hoards goods and services, creating unbearable hardship for the most vulnerable citizens; every Sierra Leonean who creates and/or share dangerously false, inciteful and divisive content on social media and indeed every citizen who keeps a deafening silence in the face of these. We must all collectively accept responsibility and take steps to prevent a recurrence to relive the words of the late former President, Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, who declared that “never again shall we resort to violence to settle our differences”.

On this day, therefore, we call on duty bearers to accord youths the space to learn, express themselves and be contributors to their future and nation-building. We urge them to speed up the investigations, take all necessary steps to bring to account those who bear the greatest responsibility, and make public the findings.

We call on every youth to be law-abiding and peaceful. We believe there is still space to express our concerns within the confines of the law. No retribution or mourning is enough to compensate for a lost life.
                                               Happy International Youth Day!

Download PDF :CGSL-International Youth Day

Keynote Address at the Chozen Generation-organized discussion on data rights and related matters -held at Radisson Blu, Aberdeen, Freetown, Thursday, November 19, 2021

Keynote Address at the Chozen Generation-organized discussion on data rights and related matters -held at Radisson Blu, Aberdeen, Freetown, Thursday, November 19, 2021

Keynote address titled: An open, connected and regulated communications ecosystem in Sierra Leone

Prepared and delivered by

Solomon A.J Jamiru Esq

Deputy Minister of Information & Communications

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Minister of Information and Communication delivering the keynote

A lot is evolving in the communications space in Sierra Leone, and as a Ministry, we appreciate the courtesy accorded us to lend the government’s perspective to the discourse. This address will therefore speak to the high-impact public policy interventions which our Ministry, together with development and civil society partners, continue to midwife. Government is not only committed to digital transformation and getting our society open and connected, but equally interested in digital regulatory frameworks that are reasonably justifiable in a democratic society. Indeed, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, in February 2020, called on governments to provide guidelines and regulations to help tackle the growing problem of harmful online content.

The right to free speech gained its first meaningful constitutional recognition in Sierra Leone exactly 79 years after the US Supreme Court started giving it some attention. Following the passing in 1917 of the Espionage Act, the US Supreme Court declared in 1919 that “Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech or of the press”.

A century after the US Supreme Court gave that initial interpretation to the first amendment right, in the case of Federation of African Journalists & Others versus The Gambia, the Community Court of ECOWAS castigated criminal sanctions for sedition, defamation, and false news. In the words of the court, such sanctions pose “a chilling effect that may unduly restrict the exercise of freedom of expression of journalists”.

Consistent therefore with Section 25 of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, Act No. 6 of 1991, which guarantees protection of freedom of expression and the press, President Julius Maada Bio met with the SLAJ Executive on 21st May 2018, reiterating his manifesto promise to decriminalize free speech. And on October 28, 2020, His Excellency’s assent to the amended 1965 Public Order Act, marked the complete removal of the 55 year-old sword of Damocles.

 

Government is equally committed to our interaction in the cyber space and the protection of personal data rights. As we are all aware, the world has come a long way in the evolution of privacy rights. From the US lawyers Samuel D. Warren and Louis Brandeis, who in 1890, defined privacy as the right to be left alone; to 58 years later when the UDHR adopted the right to privacy as the 12th fundamental right; to 1967 when the US enacted the Freedom of Information Act which gave everyone the right to request from state agencies, access to documents; to 1981 when the Council of Europe made the right to privacy a legal imperative, and so on and so forth.

So data protection and Cybersecurity are at the heart of public policy. The Journal of Cyber Policy (a Chatham House) publication, in volume 4 of 2019, identified cybersecurity as a priority for leaders. It noted how cyberattacks and data breaches can devastate businesses, for example causing approximately $600 billion financial losses in 2017; and suggesting that cyber risk often results from poor governance. So it is extremely important that we try to manage it from the top down.

Like many other countries in Africa, Sierra Leone’s interest in increased digital governance was actually triggered by the 2014 Malabo Convention on Cybersecurity and Personal Data Protection (which called for a homogeneous data protection framework for Africa) and shortly afterward, the 2016 General Data Protection Regulation of the European Union.

Sierra Leone witnessed how African countries such as Kenya, Nigeria, Togo, and Uganda adopted Data Protection policies in 2019, followed by Rwanda and Egypt in 2020; and South Africa also enacted the Protection of Personal Information Act in 2020.

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I have deliberately set out the above to establish some broad principles and precepts underpinning Sierra Leone’s steps towards the governance of the digital space and ensuring that our rights online are as protected as they are offline.

His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio took an oath to faithfully uphold and defend the constitution of Sierra Leone. And our privacy right is one of those which is guaranteed in Section 22 of the 1991 Constitution, ensuring that no person (unless with his consent) is subjected to the search of his person or his property or the entry by others on his premises, or interference with his correspondence, telephone conversation, and telegraphic and electronic communication.

I am pleased to inform you that following Cabinet’s approval for drafting and enactment of a Data Protection law, the Ministry is currently working with NCRA to have extensive consultation and validation of the draft. The legislation will bear the relevant hallmarks of a personal data protection instrument, and quite aligned with our civil liberties. It will ensure lawful, fair, and transparent processing of our data; accuracy of data and collection of data for clearly defined and legitimate purposes; storage of data no longer than the period necessary; as well as guaranteeing the security, integrity, and confidentiality of our personal data.

Minister Jamiru getting ready to deliver the keynote

Sierra Leone’s policy and regulatory environment for personal data collection, processing, transmission, storage, and use will derive in part from very instructive international and regional frameworks, including the AU Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection adopted in Malabo in 2014, the ECOWAS Supplementary Act on Personal Data Protection of 2010, and the EU General Data Protection Regulation 2016.

Yesterday, His Excellency President Bio signed into law the Cyber Security and Crime Bill 2021. The Act provides legal safeguards for cybercrimes, criminalizes over 20 offenses including illegal access and interceptions, child pornography, cyber harassment, and the Act enables the use of electronic evidence.

The data protection provisions in this law are also comforting to note. In Section 10 of the Act, for instance, search and seizure of stored computer data by a police officer or any authorized person in the course of an investigation, will only be possible upon an application made to a Judge of the High Court, canvassing reasonable grounds, and a warrant issued for that purpose.

It is in a similar token that a service provider (let’s say a mobile network operator or internet service provider) cannot be compelled to submit any information in its possession or control relating to a subscriber, unless by warrant under the hand of a High Court judge pursuant to Section 12 of the Act. And in producing such requested data, the Act guarantees the privacy of other users, customers, and third parties, and protects the disclosure of data belonging to any person that is not a party to the investigation.

The Act also sets a very high bar for the collection of real-time traffic data under Section 14 and interception of content data under the Act.

Section 37(1) (C) of the Telecommunications Act 2006, provides for the privacy of communication as one of the rights and privileges of customers of telecommunications services.

Section 40 of the National Civil Registration Act 2016 also protects data from unauthorized access, loss, and destruction.

Privacy of information is further guaranteed in part under Sections 19,20 and 21 of The Right to Access Information Act 2013; and the accompanying regulations when sanctioned by Parliament, will provide strong mechanisms.

The examples cited are consistent with our fundamental right to privacy enshrined in Section 22 of the Constitution.

But on the broader spectrum, Sierra Leone will soon finalize its National Digital Transformation Policy and Strategy with support from Digital Impact Alliance in partnership with Smart Africa; and with a $50M support from the World Bank, will implement the strategy to ensure tangible interventions in some critical areas.  The policy entails the establishment of a National Digital Transformation Agency which will serve as the main coordination and implementation agency for national ICT development initiatives including e-governance, Cyber Security, and data protection.

I am pleased to note that Government has approved and adopted some of the legislations that are key to the digital economy, including the Cyber Security and Crime Act. Let me also mention the Electronic Communications Bill, which when enacted, will repeal and replace the Telecommunications Act of 2006. This law will in the coming days be gazetted and head to Parliament for enactment.

The Ministry has completed the draft 5-year National Cybersecurity Strategy and Policy with support from the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), and set for Cabinet approval before the end of December 2021.

The Ministry is working with ECOWAS to build incident detection and threat monitoring capability and to secure relevant equipment for the functioning of the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT).

But all of these commendable steps will be meaningless in the absence of digital skills. The recent Sierra Leone digital economy country diagnostic conducted by the World Bank, revealed digital skills challenges in the country. Most of the schools are lacking digital connectivity, compounded by limited power supply in rural areas. Basic digital skills acquisition is therefore impeded by the overall lack of digital connectivity. Broadening the digital space is therefore intrinsically linked to digital skills development and maturity in Sierra Leone. The Ministry will work with the World Bank to develop a national baseline assessment framework for digital skills which will inform Sierra Leone’s digital skills agenda.

So, let me reiterate that Government remains fully committed not just to addressing gaps in privacy rights, but as half the world remains offline, we aspire to create an inclusive digital ecosystem; and in that regard, would prioritize the following:

  1. Digital infrastructure, to enable our people and businesses connect online with services here and across the world;
  2. Make information accessible through digital channels like mobile handsets, computers, and the internet, and enhance the citizens-government interface more so in exercising the right to access information;
  3. Pursue digital literacy and other skills set so that our people become digitally savvy and an important part of the 4th

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DESIGNING THE SIERRA LEONE OF OUR DREAMS: THE ROLE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN TACKLING CORRUPTION, TRIBALISM AND NEPOTISM

Keynote speech by Augustine S. Marrah, Esq. on the invitation of Chozen Generation at their First Annual Delegate Conference on 6th November 2021 in Makeni City  

  1. Good afternoon Chozen Generation members and delegates. It is quite an honor to be invited to speak to us about some matters which have upset our national aspiration. Let me say that I find it hopeful that the young people are having conversations about eradicating corruption, nepotism, and tribalism.
  2. This is not an opportunity extended to me for a scholarly expose of these phenomena. I will leave the academics to brood over why societies are afflicted with corruption or nepotism or why tribal affiliations tend to trump patriotism, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. As a young person myself, there is no suitable time to have open and honest conversations about the ills of corruption, nepotism, and tribalism.
  3. Let me start by noting that at the heart of corruption is nepotism which is the practice of favoring relatives and friends especially in giving job opportunities and such a practice of leadership creates a conducive atmosphere for tribalism to foster.
  4. We live in a deeply religious society so sometimes I wonder how it came to be that we have so much corruption and nepotism. These are social ills that should be rife in an irreligious or unrepentant society. But the irony is, we live in a society where we preach one thing but do the very opposite. Our leaders would talk about corruption, nepotism, and tribalism as if they were not associated with them in any manner. They sometimes campaign on ending corruption only to fly society on a higher altitude of corruption, nepotism, and tribalism when they are elected.
  5. In 2019, I was privileged to be appointed one of seven persons to craft the current national anti-corruption strategy. We went across the nation to understand the causes and layers of corruption in different parts of the country. I was shocked at the deep-seated impoverishment of our people and the level of mistrust of leadership on the part of citizens, who have grown to perceive leadership and those at the helm of power as the grandmasters of corruption. So, for them, there is no other standard other than being engaged in or supporting corruption themselves.
Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah delivering the keynote address
THE COST OF CORRUPTION AND NEPOTISM
  1. It is pertinent to note that when we speak about corruption, we are not hazarding a guess about how it has the potential to rip a nation apart. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s findings documented the causes of the civil conflict and recorded corruption and nepotism as one of the primary causes of the civil war. It was corruption that led to the killing of more than one hundred thousand people, unquantifiable maiming, and violation of women and children. It was the discontentment with the level of corruption in the country that had brewed over time that was channeled through the barrel to wreak wanton destruction on a nation. For almost twenty years since we introduced the Anti-Corruption Commission in our governance process, very little has changed. Corruption and nepotism have only yielded much dividends for the partakers.
  2. Before society degenerates into absolute chaos, the effects of corruption are often manifest. The hospitals would be starved of medical supplies to such an extent that patients are more likely to pass in hospitals than to be cured. Roads would be perpetually in bad shape because someone who has been awarded the contract has already given half the sum of the contract as backhanders before the contract sum was paid. School supplies intended to improve learning are siphoned into personal endeavours. And as for justice, it is for sale to the willing buyer.
  3. Corruption and nepotism have crippled our country. While the older generation in other countries handed their young people legacies of technology, thriving mining industries, international commerce, cutting edge medical care, booming aviation industries, what have been bequeathed to the young people of Sierra Leone are corruption, nepotism, bad governance, battered economy and deep tribal sentiments. This is what the youth of Sierra Leone have been given to compete with their counterparts across the world.
  4. We talk too often about how corruption and nepotism have damaged our entire governance system. How it has killed our medical, educational and justice systems. But we speak very little about how it has killed our future even before it arrives—the future of young people. The highest cost of corruption is not the number of things and structures in society that it decimates, it is the future that it robs the young of, the destinies injured, and the aspirations rendered impossible.

Download a PDF copy of this speech DESIGNING THE SIERRA LEONE OF OUR DREAMS- THE ROLE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN TACKLING CORRUPTION, TRIBALISM AND NEPOTISM

BREWING TRIBAL SENTIMENTS   
  1. Sierra Leone is a multi-ethnic society with very rich cultural diversity. You’d think that having different tribes or ethnic groups should be a great source of a varied approach to development and co-existence.
  2. In the last ten years, tribal sentiments have been whipped up whether by political manipulations of poor people or by deliberate power or governance structures. In recent times, there have been calls for ethnic audits in certain institutions. These calls are a result of the growing belief that certain tribes are being disproportionately advantaged in the power dynamics. While this may not be true, it is imperative to address tribal sentiments thoroughly and decisively.
  3. Indeed, wherever corruption and nepotism thrive, tribalism would be inevitably produced. This is because the corrupt would tend to share their loot with their friends and families and in the process, the false urge to build tribal solidarity to protect the loot emerges. Invariably, corrupt politicians would fan tribal sentiments to make it appear that the people have access to resources only because their kinsman is in power and won’t have such access if someone other than their tribesman were at the helm.
  4. The political system of winner-takes-all has also not helped to defuse tribal tensions. This is because usually, the winner invites his kinsmen from Bo if they are green or from Makeni if they are red to feast. Only the crumbs would be shared with folks who do not speak their tongue. Consequentially, contracts, job opportunities, and access to power are concentrated in tribal circles and those whom the tribesmen can benefit from and not distributed across the nation.

 

DESIGNING THE FUTURE OF OUR DREAMS

  1. It is a huge responsibility for young people to imagine beyond the chaos and to design the future of our dreams. This is because what we currently have is a nightmare and nothing good can come out of it.
  2. If we are to design a far better future for ourselves, simply saying “No” to corruption is insufficient. We must also say “Yes” to industry and entrepreneurship. I know this is herculean since we do not even have the tools to start with. But beyond anything, we need to have the will and spirit to design a better collective future. So today, I’m encouraging every one of us to develop a strong will to design the future. I know many young people who have been wearied by the many and various deficits in our society. Do it for them, do it for yourselves, for our children, and do it for a better Sierra Leone.
  3. In some cases, young people are direct beneficiaries of corrupt leaders. Most commonly, they may have acquired an education through the funding of such leaders and their corruptly acquired funds. As a result of this, they fail to stand up to demand better and widely distributed resources, they become actively engaged in defending wrongful conduct. But young people must view corruption as the single biggest phenomenon of destruction of any society. They must view corruption, tribalism, and nepotism as the very robbers of their future. Young people should demand for all and just not be satisfied when they and their families are given while the rest of society languishes. Young people must learn to use what they have to challenge systematic ills and demand national development, even if this includes education acquired by funding from corrupt leaders. We can’t design a future if we are complicit in the wrongs. If we are the errand boys and girls of failed political classes, we can’t imagine a future, not to talk of designing it.
  4. We must design a future where all tribes are seated at the table or given equal access to corridors. A future where technologies are harnessed to the advantage of Sierra Leoneans: a future of globally competitive manufacturing in diverse industries; a future of opening technology hubs across the country; a future of thriving agricultural industry; a booming regional trade and a future of a functional justice system. The only way we can erase the deceit of corruption, tribalism, and nepotism is to confront them with the truth of political inclusion, good governance, economic development, and impartial justice.
  5. We can’t tackle these ills with nothing. Young people must channel their energies towards organizing against corruption, confronting nepotism, and exposing tribalism. The future we design should embrace our diversity while guarding against the abuse of tribal identities. It should give no accommodation to nepotism and corruption nor leave tendencies for a few to become rich at the expense of the rest.
  6. Young people must be deliberate and unapologetic to political leadership in stating that our dreamed future is to actively compete with the rest of the world and not to be inheritors or beneficiaries of corruption, nepotism, and tribalism. It is therefore time to reject corruption for cooperation, nepotism for equalitarianism, and tribalism for patriotism. This is how to design the Sierra Leone of our dreams.

Download a PDF copy of this speech DESIGNING THE SIERRA LEONE OF OUR DREAMS- THE ROLE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN TACKLING CORRUPTION, TRIBALISM AND NEPOTISM

CHOZEN GENERATION SIERRA LEONE FIRST ANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Young leaders set to meet in Makeni to discuss ways to tackle tribalism, nepotism, and corruption in Sierra Leone

Chozen Generation Sierra Leone will be in Makeni this weekend – 5-7 November 2021- to have its first Annual General Conference with the theme: Designing the Sierra Leone of our Dreams – the Role of Young People in Tackling Corruption, Tribalism and Nepotism.
Panelists of the Chozen Generation Annual Delegates’ ConferenceYoung Sierra Leoneans, this country’s destiny is in your hands. Act now to change the story and dynamics. The persistent failure of leadership, organization, and direction of Sierra Leone will never change if you and your peers do not face the situation, analyze it and plan towards changing it.
Our leaders were youths who criticized the corruption, tribalism, and nepotism they have now perfected. They fail to make the change because they could not plan or prepare themselves for the roles they now occupy. We must be an exception to this!
DOWNLOAD THE FULL EVENT AGENDA Chozen Generation AGM Agenda final

Meet the panelists of the Chozen Generation Sierra Leone first Annual General Conference

Our panelists are leaders in their respective fields. They come with a wealth of experience and a firm grip on issues of governance, corruption, tribalism, and nepotism. The CGSL Conference panel discussion promises to be both exciting and candid with our panelists sharing their thoughts on this important subject with profound depth and illuminating insights.

chozengeneration

You could follow the conversations live on our Facebook page.

#Changes Possible
DOWNLOAD THE FULL EVENT AGENDA Chozen Generation AGM Agenda final

CGSL GETS $10,000 GRANT FOR DIGITAL RIGHTS ADVOCACY IN SIERRA LEONE

CHOZEN GENERATION SIERRA LEONE GETS $10,000 GRANT FOR DIGITAL RIGHTS ADVOCACY IN SIERRA LEONE

Freetown, Sept. 2nd, 2021 – Chozen Generation Sierra Leone (CGSL) is excited to announce that it has won a grant of U$D 9,950 from the Collaboration on International ICT Policy in East and Southern Africa (CIPESA) to continue its digital rights advocacy in Sierra Leone in the context of the Africa Digital Rights Fund (ADRF). CGSL is one of 13 entities from the continent to secure a grant in the fifth round of the Fund this year.

The organizations will undertake research, capacity building, awareness-raising, advocacy, and stakeholder’s engagement across 25 African countries including Sierra Leone, Algeria, Cameroon, Malawi, South Africa, and Ethiopia

In the next three months, CGSL will focus on strengthening the capacity of journalists, bloggers, and youth activists on digital rights reporting and advocacy in Sierra Leone. The organization will specifically train selected beneficiaries on the recently passed Cybersecurity and Cybercrime Act as well as on the Right to Access Information Act, which was passed in 2013, supposedly to promote the public’s right to know within the context of press freedom.

Whilst a growing number of the country’s population is now surfing the internet, Sierra Leone still lacks a law that specifically addresses data privacy and protection. This gap undermines consumer protection and potentially opens the door for data exploitation. In the same vein, the Right to Access Information Act has not resulted in significant improvement in accessing information. The recently passed Cybersecurity Act which is now awaiting presidential assent is an important piece of digital rights legislation. However, a survey by a respected local think-tank revealed that only about 29% of citizens had heard about the proposed law which, among other things, seeks to regulate social media and address some of the challenges with cybersecurity.

This low awareness by citizens of these laws, some of which, critics argue contains provisions that amount to a full-scale crackdown on freedom of expression online is a source of concern. “The lack of awareness by citizens means these laws are largely underutilized or used by rogue officials to suppress citizens” CGSL National Coordinator, Joel Abdulai Kallon said.

It is therefore absolutely necessary to analyze the said law and train journalists and youth activists on some of its major provisions to encourage more engagement and advocacy. Indeed, more public education is still required to ensure that every Sierra Leonean enjoys the benefit of these contemporary legislations.

In May this year, Chozen Generation organized a seminar on data protection, cybersecurity and internet freedom in Sierra Leone.

CHOZEN GENERATION IS A COMMUNITY OF PROFESSIONALS WHO ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN SIERRA LEONE THROUGH THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY AND SOUND LEADERSHIP. WE EMPHASIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF INNOVATION, HARD WORK, INTEGRITY, AND ACCOUNTABILITY FOR EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP. OUR MISSION IS TO EMPOWER YOUTHS NATIONWIDE THROUGH THE PROVISION OF RELEVANT TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES, MENTORING, COACHING, AND NETWORKING SUPPORT.

You can download a pdf copy of this release here: CGSL ADRF Public Notice 922021

CHOZEN GENERATION WELCOMES NEW LEADERS

Following months of careful vetting and background checks, eleven new members have been formally incorporated into the ranks of Chozen Generation Sierra Leone. New members subscribed to the oath and appended their names on the CGSL Membership Register last Sunday 6th June 2021 at the Africell/America Corner in Freetown.

Over thirty young Sierra Leoneans submitted applications for membership The recruitment process started in February 2021. The induction marks the end of the recruitment process.

Chozen Generation welcomes new inductees

Welcoming the new members, Joel Abdulai Kallon, National Coordinator of Chozen Generation, said the annual induction of new members is special not just for the CGSL membership, but for the country at large.

He pinpointed that joining the organization is a call to national duty as every Chozen Generation member is expected to make a difference in society.

“At CGSL we aspire to be different, he said. “We want to be different because we are tired of the society in which we live. We are tired of living in a country where young people are reduced to opportunists. To beggers clamoring after politicians for even the most basic things.

“We are tired of a country where there is a lack of belief in talent and skills, where qualities and virtues like excellence hard work no longer matter to young people. We want to build that culture again.

“I am putting it to you ladies and gentlemen that you have a role to play in that regard. Bring energy, positive mind to Chozen Generation. In place of pettiness, Small mindedness, bring excellence and the ability to see beyond the basics.

Mr. Kallon noted that new members are central to the growth and continuation of the Chozen Generation’s ideology. He encouraged them to jealously guard the organization and be particular about their friends and associates.

Cross section of inductees

“In the next five or ten years, this current crop of CGSL leaders might have become too old-fashioned or too out of touch with the leadership realities of the day. That is why it is important that the organization annually attracts and recruits a new group of dynamic, energetic, and firebrand leaders into its fold,” he said.

Honorable Ibrahim Tawa Conteh delivering the keynote address.

2020 Ten Most Outstanding Sierra Leoneans Award recipient, Honorable Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, Parliamentarian for constituency 132, who served as the keynote speaker admonished new members to imbibe the organization’s culture of patriotism, hard work, and diligence.

“You are not coming in as inductees today because they told you all the fancy things. Rather, you are coming in as inductees because you believe in the values and principles of the organization and must therefore strive to uphold them. Those values include nationalism, patriotism, and tolerance for diversity.”

 

Chozen Generation’s Deputy Programs Coordinator, Mr. Ibrahim Bangura moderated the event whilst the programs coordinator briefed the audience and inductees on the history, values, and achievements of the organization. Massah Esther Nyallay Bockarie revealed how the organization transformed her life and have supported her dreams.

This year’s inductees came from diverse backgrounds and they include students, recent graduates, and working professionals.

Ten Most Outstanding Sierra Leoneans 2020

MEET SIERRA LEONE’S TEN MOST OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUALS IN 2020

THE TEN MOST OUTSTANDING SIERRA LEONEANS IN 2020

                                                                                                   Meet the Ten Most Outstanding Sierra Leoneans 2020

 

Top L-R : Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, Vickie Remoe, Mohamed Buya Turay, Lara Taylor Pearce, Drizilik

Bottom L-R: Zainab Sheriff, David Moinina Sengeh, Staff of Rainbo Initiative, Aiah Lebbie, Sick Pikin Project Volunteers