Personal Musings on our Salone @ 50 Anniversary–by John Simbo

Recently, I wrote to Yeniva at the Sierra Leone @ 50 - Independence Anniversary Planning Committee, taking a mild exception to our chosen theme of ‘50 years Forward’.

Firstly, I must say that I commend the work the committee are doing to commemorate this occasion of our 50th Independence Anniversary, however my issue is that I feel that the lead ‘theme’ is slightly confusing and that we are perhaps missing an opportunity to ‘move’ the Nation, and to have Sierra Leoneans renew their personal pledges to our motherland.

It’s my thinking that if the theme is intended to be a statement which reflects our past - '50 years Forward', then I’d suggest that it contains a liberal amount of conjecture, as some might argue that there is scant evidence of us moving massively forward over those years. This therefore makes the ‘theme’ a debatable issue [with many discordant views and opinions] which I’m sure is not a direction we wish to go.

However, if it is that we are looking in the other direction - '50 years Forward – Celebrating a New Sierra Leone’, then I do hope that we will take the time to pause and to reflect on our last 50 years both good and bad. We are after all commemorating the past fifty years of our independence, therefore it would be remiss for us to focus on our future without looking at our past. In order to know where we’re going, we need to understand where we’re coming from.

Furthermore, I believe that if we are to lead with a banner of ‘50 Years Forward’, some observers amongst us would reasonably expect some sort of blue-print, plan, design etc in accompaniment. I therefore humbly suggest that we come up with something to fill the design/ blue-print vacuum; To design and to plan for success - hopefully within some our lifetimes, and to do what we can to guard against the theme going down as just another sound-off and the usual hyperbole.

I will also add that I do hope that the occasion is not excessively party-political, as this might serve to alienate whole swaths of our society. Sierra Leone after all embodies all of our shared history, and therefore it is important that we all buy into the message and not get distracted by debate or by partisan issues.

The central point I would like to make however is that whatever the theme might be, the planning committee must do their utmost to weave a broad range of elements into the commemorations, other than the revellous celebrations which I’m quite sure we will do well. It is in fact a testament to the spirit of our people that in spite of our recent deeply dark history, we can still take pleasure in and celebrate the joys of living. We know how to party, that’s for sure, and I look forward to that, however we must also take this opportunity to inspire our nation to a higher set of ideals and our people to a change for the betterment of Sierra Leone.

Personally I believe that one of the things that is holding us back as a nation is that we do not always set and reach for a better version of ourselves. We often do not ‘Dare to Dream’ and be the best that we can be, but instead suffer a complex - aptly described in Oswald Hancilles article: ‘Curing over 50 Years Inferiority Complex’. Please see article: http://www.cocorioko.net/?p=3146

However, if we look across all the fields at Sierra Leoneans in ‘All Walks of Life’, in all corners of the globe, our people do have a long and rich history of achieving, often against adversity, becoming leaders of their professions, breaking down barriers, setting new records and paving new paths etc.

This is a part of our story as a people, and as such it’s a story that deserves to be told. It is a story that needs to be celebrated. We need to call on Sierra Leoneans all over the world to tell their stories of how they have achieved, how they have overcome adversity, and how they have soared.

We’ve got eminent scientists, doctors, lawyers, engineers, authors, teachers, researchers, humanitarians, sporting icons, actors, musicians and many of them are leading lights in their respective professions. We’ve also still got a few of the folks who fought for our independence and many others who emerged from the grass roots and who have amazing stories to tell.

Many of their stories deserve to be told firstly to remind the world of what Sierra Leoneans have achieved as a people in our time, but also and perhaps most importantly - to inspire all generations of Sierra Leoneans – and even those yet unborn. A lot of folks – even amongst ourselves, do not know how good we have been or can be as a people because the stories of our successes haven’t been told often enough. Instead we often look in awe at what other peoples and nations are achieving.

As part of the theme for our anniversary, I humbly submit that we should celebrate Sierra Leoneans who have ‘Dared to Dream’, Who Have Achieved and Who have Soared. Let them be an inspiration to us all.

During the months of our independence celebrations, we ought to capture and to retell some of these stories through the various mediums of radio, TV, online video recordings, printed articles, staged platforms, road shows etc. These stories need to reach the broadest audience of Sierra Leoneans wherever they may be found; [NB: Some of the items produced here will have obvious marketable / merchandise potential] and once we have been reminded of just some of what we as a people have achieved in our time, a high authority [possibly the President] needs to come out and to challenge the nation to rise to these standards. Many of the circumstances our compatriots had to face still persist, but we can ‘Dare to Dream’ and to reach for a better version of ourselves as they did. As a people, we need to embody the ideals that have served some of our citizens so well i.e the things that make the seemingly impossible possible – e.g. hard work, discipline, dedication, sacrifice, and a higher set of values etc.

I’m sure that there are versions of this story closer to home, but I’m reminded here of a speech made by John F Kennedy on the 25th May, 1961. In his speech, Kennedy announced before a special joint session of Congress, the dramatic and ambitious goal of sending an American safely to the Moon and safely back to earth before the end of the decade. This speech came at a time when Kennedy was feeling great pressure to have the United States catch up to and to overtake the Soviet Union in the ‘space race’. This was four years after Russian Yuri Gagarin had become the first human in space on April 12 1961, greatly embarrassing the U.S. Although Alan Shepard had been the first American in space on May 5, he had only flown a short sub-orbital flight instead as orbiting the earth as Gagarin had done. In addition, the Bay of Pigs [Cuba] fiasco in April 1961 had also been a source of great embarrassment to JFK’s administration.

Against the backdrop of these events, JFK wanted to announce a program in which the U.S. could take on and surpass the Soviet Union, so after consulting with his Vice President, NASA Administrators, and other officials, he announced America’s pursuit to land a man on the Moon and to return him safely back to earth. This at the time was the most ambitious of pursuits, with no other project comparable in scope and in ambition.

This created a new subtext for the cold war. America was involved in a war which was not just a war of military might, but also of ideas and of ambition including venturing into new frontiers, overcoming challenges, reclaiming lost ground, and becoming a dominant power once again.

The President took the leadership in this ambition, setting out their nation’s mission which was not just hugely technological challenging, it also required tremendous human endeavour, with all Americans pulling in the same direction. He challenged “...... every scientist, every engineer, every serviceman, every technician, contractor, and civil servant” to make a personal pledge to move the nation forward in fulfilling their Nation’s ambition. This period turned out to be one of America’s most productive periods and the rest as they say is history.
See JFK’s speech: http://www.homeofheroes.com/presidents/speeches/kennedy_space.html

Sierra Leone as a nation fifty years after our independence still has many of our own battles to fight and much to overcome. We can however draw inspiration from the many individuals amongst us, who have ‘Dared to Dream’, Who have ‘Achieved’ and who have ‘Soared’.

At this opportune time, as we celebrate [an age of maturity] 50 years of our independence, it is my humble opinion that we as a nation need to renew our ‘Mission’ set all those years ago. The higher authorities amongst us need to outline our Nation’s new ambitions and to send out the clarion call to re-engage the patriots within us.

Personally I would even argue that we need to embark on a new national project which calls on Sierra Leoneans to be the purveyors, standard bearers and custodians of our fate. We need a project that re-defines the standards we set and against which we judge ourselves. We need to strive for a better version of ourselves and of our Nation.

We need to “Reach for the Moon, and even if we don’t get there, we might end amongst the stars”

[John Simbo Jnr]

The Returnee Files – Q&A with Brian Conton

I’m often told that moving back is a courageous thing to do. It’s true but it's harder for some than others. For me once I made up my mind, it really wasn’t a difficult. This right here though is some serious shizzle. This edition of Returnee Files focuses on someone I call my "poster child" for returnees. I always talk about him in an effort to convince others that they can make the move. I’m like “you know Brian Conton? Well he just moved back with his wife and four kids. Yes, four kids!”. How much more hardcore can it get? On a serious note, I have a lot of admiration for him (and his wife) on putting together this move.
I have met very few people like Brian. It is obvious he is a highly organized individual, very focused and highly driven. Actually, he’s also slightly eccentric, in an out of the box kind of way- a trait I think is really cool. I mean, how many licensed physiotherapists do you know that are also qualified engineers with and MBA. If that is not enough, he moulds marble like counter tops and sinks for kitchens and bathrooms; designs and implements  solutions for solar energy and constant water supply all working 24/7 in his house. He points out that one of the pillars of a successful family move is to be independent of erratic water and power supply which plagues so many households.  In addition to that, he is building  a clinic for his physiotherapy practice (I mean doing everything from the drawings to supervising concrete mixes) AND running the Leone Prep school? Not only does he do all this but he does it all in pursuit of excellence. I always have time to listen to what he has to say and I suggest you take the time to read his interview. Ladies and gentlemen… “Returnee” – Brian Conton….
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1. When did you move back to Sierra Leone? How long where you out of the country?
We moved back permanently as a family in April 2010 and I have been out since 1992.
2. Are you permanently or just working here on a long term contract?
Not going anywhere here to stay.
3. Why did you decide to relocate to Sierra Leone?
I believe that with what I have learnt, it is possible to have a quality of life better than most other places when one takes into account the time and effort required to generate the finances to support whatever lifestyle. You can have a greater influence over your environment and have more time to build a better family life in Sierra Leone and contribute to national development.
4. Did family and friends try to discourage you from returning home? If yes, can you share some of their concerns?
It was rumoured that I had lost my marbles. The family and friends that tried to discourage me fall roughly into two categories The first group consists of those that were worried that I might not be able to provide an equitable life style for my family and get frustrated with the system. The other group was more concerned about their own displacement or the possibility that someone coming back might make them look bad for not having grown as much as they might/should have. From the former, once the realization that we were actually going to relocate sunk in, we got real help. I received solutions on how to overcome problems, food, loan of vehicles facilities and even resources. From the later group there was rarely anything but a litany of problems and reasons why I should not and often could not do the things that seemed perfectly achievable with a bit of extra effort. This was always preceded by the categorization that “we that are on the ground and know the limitations of this environment…..” Most of what they said was true and from their own experiences. However you have to filter the personal slants from the objective facts and use the information to prepare yourself. When you listen carefully, the bulk of what they say is about why they did not and could not, which can be extremely valuable in determining how you can and will. You just beware as soon as people start telling you that they are the people “on the ground” that phrase sometimes carries with it an undertone of resentment that transforms valuable experiences of even the most well meaning individuals to something else.
Admittedly, this is one of those delayed syndromes of the war. Those that endured the bullets and explosions to hold the fort do not want to give up the ground for which they have suffered. Especially so to those that they might see as deserters. Returnees are sometimes viewed as not asking permission from those that stayed behind to come home. They just bulldoze their way through. It is just amazing how even those that arrived the month before you adopt this cloth and wrap themselves in it. The bossy know it all attitude of some of the returnees/diasporans has done nothing to heal this divide. It is something that is very deep seated, divisive and damaging to the fabric of our society. We must at all costs find a way to air it and heal it.
5. How and what steps did you take to prepare your move/relocation to Sierra Leone?
We prepared this move as a family for close to three years. We brought in our god parents to hear each others needs and wants more clearly and articulate them objectively to myself and my wife. In something as life changing as a relocation, you can want it so badly that you hear what you want to hear and demote the importance of other concerns. This is either through just not hearing what is said or a belief that you can make the negatives go away. When we were guided through this process by some wise heads our (my) timeline grew from one year to three. During this time I came back at least twice annually and in the last 18 month four times of increasing duration each time.
6. If you are in full time employment, did you find a job before moving?
I have been very lucky in the sense that I have stepped into my mothers shoes and am helping her run the Leone Preparatory School which is my morning job. In the afternoons and evenings, I have a Physical Therapy practice inside of the Davidson Nicol Medical center so I guess I qualify as one of those that had a job before moving.
What is your profession? Have you been get the most out of your educational qualifications achieved abroad?
As a physiotherapist, the scope of care that I offer here is wider than anything that I did in the States. You tend to get very specialized in the US. Even though I owned a practice that saw a wide spectrum of patients, it is nothing compared to what I see here. I have a Doctorate in Physical Therapy specializing in workforce development. That means I look at the state of a profession, examine the socio-cultural outlook and how it fits into the whole development/political agenda of a nation. I then examine whether all the building blocks (policies, curricula, examinations, culture, general education ect) are consistent with the fulfillment of the professional goals. In this I am extremely fulfilled in running a school. I get to see first hand what is or is not done to prepare our workforce. As an MBA holder I run my own business and a family business. As an engineer (my first degree) I am doing some building and solar installations. I could not be more fulfilled professionally
7. How did you go about setting up the business and how did you find the experience?
I transferred my physical Therapy business from the states over here. As of now I practice inside a hospital as an individual so I have not had to go through the difficulties of business registration yet.
8. What type of business do you have? How can folks get in contact?
I have the Physical Therapy business. I also run the family business which is a primary school. There is however this budding market as a relocation consultant that people just seem to contact me a lot about. Maybe I should have a website. The easiest way to reach me is at the school on kingharman road in the mornings or Davidson Nicol Medical Center in the afternoons. Email works just fine too, bconton@gmail.com
9. What culture changes did you experience after your move? What surprised you the most about life here?
The total disregard for other people’s property/laws on the one hand and the acceptance of mediocrity/status quo on the other. It is amazing how people grumble about the “system” and how so a greedy few are making millions off the backs of the already disenfranchised, but try and change things and you find out that it is those same people waiting for their turn at the top of the pole
10. Have you adjusted to the Sierra Leonean lifestyle or are you still living like you did abroad?
I don’t know that I want to accept this premise of the “Sierra Leonean Lifestyle”. It is too slippery a slope for me to start thinking that way. What should it not incorporate? Are Sierra Leoneans capable of defying physics and physiology? Is it possible for them to live on unclean water or commute efficiently without proper roads? Or survive on qualitatively and quantitatively insufficient food? Should we be content to have our children sit in a classroom with no teacher? Should we suffer in silence with no electricity or water and have these utilities extort money for their non existent services? I think not, and the sooner we stop accepting these things as a “Sierra Leonean” lifestyle and view them as unacceptable the better. Eventually, it these acceptances that kill you and place you at the bottom of the development index. I would just say I am living a lifestyle that makes sense given my experience and background. One that will give me “cold heart and well body”
11. How have you handled the infrastructure limitations, including electricity, water, sanitation, etc.?
I started from scratch redid everything with new technology. My house is completely solar powered, dug a water well and have enough back up pumps and generators to live off the grid completely. I am not connected to NPA or Guma. The upfront cost is high, but I know that I will have electricity tonight, and cold water and a fan if it gets too hot. Above all my appliances will not suffer from voltage fluctuations. I wont have the high maintenance and running costs of a generator either.
12. What’s the best thing about returning home?
Just the feeling of being among my own people and contributing to much needed development.
13. The worst thing about returning?
The utter disregard by even officials for law order and other peoples property. Everyone just does what they want without regard for the impact on others. It is to all intents and purposes the wild west.
14. Do you think living abroad--education, work experience, culture-- have enabled you to contribute to the development of Sierra Leone
Forget about education and work experience. The most important thing is we have experienced the productivity of discipline, respect for law and order and ethics. If the only thing that we bring back is work ethic: doing what we are paid for in our jobs with a sense of service and timeliness, this country will move forward light years. You really do not have to have a highly specialized field of service.
15. What challenges do you face in Sierra Leone? For example: at work, with friends and families, lifestyle?
Getting simple things done takes so much more time and organization. There is no simple straight forward way of doing something as simple as getting your driving license or registering your vehicle. You have to have “your man” on the inside that will facilitate processes for you otherwise you may have to take a tent and spend a couple of days trying to get the right form. I say that in Sierra Leone getting a day’s worth of food takes two and a half days of foraging. So you are always playing catch up.
16. If you are in Salone with your family, why did you decide to bring your children?  How have your children adjusted to the new lifestyle and culture?
The children have adjusted just fine. Invariably children especially if they are young are very resilient and just want to get on with life. They tend to find the concept of Space and freedom in Sierra Leone most captivating.
17. Will you return to the country where you relocated from?
No, we are happy here
18. What is your long-term vision or hope for Sierra Leone?
Discipline with respect for law and order. Taxis that pull over to the side of the road to pick up passengers. Officials that respect their customers and people that stand up for their rights.
19. If you were asked to encourage others to return home, what would you do/advice? Any regrets?
No amount of advance preparation is too much No regrets this is home where visiting soldiers resign their commission to resettle because it is so nice. Why the heck should we not be able to see our own country through those same eyes. Enjoy our birth place in the same way. There are beaches, breathtaking mountains, scenic lakes, historical places. We need to visit Sierra Leone and enjoy it as we do other countries and as other Nationals enjoy it.

The Returnee Files – Q&A with Yeniva Sisay-Sogbeh

Either time really flies or I’m a slacker. I can’t believe the last time I put one of these out was in 2009. Geez. Well, I have a few lined up and I promise to release them before this time next year. This offering throws the spotlight on someone who has been a constant support to VSL and one of our forumites who passed through VSL en route to Sierra Leone.
What struck me about the interview was just how modest Yeniva is being. In under three years since being in Sierra Leone, she set up EXCEL which is an after school education programme for kids. Seven of those kids were accepted into the African Leadership Academy in South Africa, other students are in Russia, Ukraine. She got married and has a beautiful daughter. She is a key driver and organiser of Poetry nights which unleashed some hidden literary talents in Sierra Leone. She is one of the founding members of Ma dengn Association, organisers of the Ma dengn Beach Festival in Sierra Leone. She not only brought the “Green, White and Blue” Ball to Sierra Leone but also MCs numerous events including the popular Haiti Appeal concert in Freetown were funds were raised for Haitian victims of the earthquake. As if that’s not enough she has recently been appointed the Executive Secretary of the 50th Anniversary Celebrations. Phew! I’m exhausted just typing that.
For someone who was born in the US and never lived in Sierra Leone (only coming back and forth for the holidays) before relocating, she hasn’t done too bad!
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When did you move back to Sierra Leone? How long where you out of the country?


I moved to Sierra Leone in October 2007. I was born and raised in California but I’m a “Daughter of the Dust” both of my parents were born and raised in SL. I have been coming here all of my life.
Why did you decide to relocate to Sierra Leone?
For so many years I had a love affair with Sierra Leone. After restless returns back to the US, I kept connected through the NGO I started, family and following social networks like VSL but I realized that was just not enough. I had to make a conscious decision to be A PART of the change I dream for Sierra Leone or stand by and hope the dream manifests. I chose to come home.


Did family and friends try to discourage you from returning home?

Family and friends have been the most supportive of my relocation although they did raise concerns about how tough Sierra Leone can be on an everyday basis. Things like finding suitable work, no electricity and culture shock were at the forefront of concerns.
How and what steps did you take to prepare your move/relocation to Sierra Leone?
First I prepared my mind for a different life. This is NOT America. No matter how much you would like to compare the two they are just worlds apart. So I first prepared my mind for my journey and change of lifestyle. Next, I prepared to ship my belongings and those things I would want, need and miss.
If you are in full time employment, did you find a job before moving?
No, I did not find a job before moving.


What is your profession? Have you been get the most out of your educational qualifications achieved abroad?
I am an educator I hold a Masters Degree in Education. I would say I have yes I have been able to get great use of my qualifications as I established The EXCEL Education Center as well as serve as a education consultant on curriculum development and teacher training. More encouraging are the opportunities available to explore other talents and passions outside of just my profession.

If you own/run a business/organization, did you move to establish your business? How did you go about setting up the business and how did you find the experience? What type of business do you have? How can folks get in contact?
This is a long one. I am the Executive Director of The EXCEL Education Program www.excelscholars.org

What culture changes did you experience after your move? What surprised you the most about life here?
The sense of time is what surprised me the most. The fact that I was so used to having things right at my finger tips, electricity, internet etc. In the US we are always moving so fast and things get done quickly. Every minute of the day is accounted for. I was surprised at how people take their time and how there is really no rush. It can be quite frustrating at times but it also helps you to slow down and enjoy the things that life has to offer.


Have you adjusted to the Sierra Leonean lifestyle or are you still living like you did abroad?
I am truly adjusted its just something you have to do or you won’t make it. Not adjusting is the mistake that people make and their life here is not sustainable so they get frustrated and turn back. There are certain things that are part of the quality of life, necessity while other things are desires or fluff.
How have you handled the infrastructure limitations, including electricity, water, sanitation, etc.?
Whew! well it is what it is. Things like electricity supply have made quite an improvement however there is still a ways to go. Infrastructure is key to development and investment and Sierra Leone is making steps in the right direction.


What’s the best thing about returning home?
The best thing about returning home is being a part of the renaissance of Sierra Leone. It’s about being able to contribute to a new Sierra Leone on my terms.


Do you think living abroad--education, work experience, culture-- have enabled you to contribute to the development of Sierra Leone
There is no doubt that the sacrifice my parents made in giving us the opportunity to experience abroad has contributed to who I am as a person. The way I communicate, interact is different. I see life the through a different lenses through a different experience.

If you are in Salone with your family, why did you decide to bring your children?  How have your children adjusted to the new lifestyle and culture?
While in Sierra Leone I developed my family. I am now married to an amazing husband who is supportive and allows me to explore and express my love for Sierra Leone. I also have a beautiful and smart daughter who is 2yrs old and her main struggle is whether to speak Krio or English LOL


Will you return to the country where you relocated from?
Sure for visits, conference and professional development. But I’m home now.


What is your long-term vision or hope for Sierra Leone?
To see Sierra Leone gain its rightful place as the diamond of Africa. This is possible through good governance, education, leadership, investment, development and wealth creation. These things are the cornerstone to creating the New Sierra Leone and shedding the negative images of the past.


If you were asked to encourage others to return home, what would you do/advice? Any regrets?
My advice is to come home and do your part. The Diaspora has a key role in the development of Sierra Leone. Be ready for the road ahead. Have an idea about what you want to do but be open to applying your qualifications in un-conventional ways. ( Ex : an educator who moonlights as an event organizer/ marketing and PR) Be humble and ready to open your eyes, listen, learn and live. Crawl before you run and don’t expect to hit the finish line without a bit to sweat and don’t be afraid to celebrate your natural brilliance.

Pineapple Rum Refresher – Made in Sierra Leone

Man I love Sierra Leone’s pineapples.. and alcohol’s not bad either.. so put the two together and I’m very likely to try it. Add to the fact that it’s Sierra Leonean made… and I’m sold.

Its always been disappointing that with all the beautiful fruits (mmm..mango) that fall off the trees of Sierra Leone we haven’t been able to process them into juices that can be sold commercially. So this new pineapple drink is definitely a welcome change.

Developed by KETSO Company Limited and driven by Dr Eamonn, he sees it as a drink for  "cocktail lovers" and its 6% alcohol puts it under the category "alcopop". Think Smirnoff Ice or Barcardi Breezer. The KETSO farms are located at Makombeh village in Port Loko district and according to Dr Eamonn, “selling this product brings in household income to provide, for example, children’s schooling, more livestock and better energy and water supplies.”

Cool stuff. The drink itself is brilliant and excellent when served really chilled. My personal thought is that it will have the greatest appeal to Savannah, other alcopop and cocktail drinkers as those Heineken and Guinness drinkers are pretty loyal. I didn’t taste anything to suggest it’s not an established product that can compete with any foreign drink out there and the packaging is fine.

"Dr. Eamonn" PINEAPPLE RUM REFRESHER is available at
Freetown Direct Supermarket (Congo Cross), Freetown Aqua Sports Club, Alexis', Chez Nous, Roy's, Beach Apple, Njala Venue, Family Kingdom, Mamba Point, Tribe's, Senegalese Restaurant and Balmayas Restaurant.

Please tell friends about this product, not just because it’s important to support Sierra Leonean enterprise but it really is a tasty and refreshing drink (with a bit of a kick obviously, so the normal guidance around alcohol apply). You can find out more by going to their website:

www.ketso.org

Demolishing Lumley to construct highway will breathe new life into the area

They said it wouldn’t happen; which is why some continued to build. They said the govt would not have the ‘cahunas’ to clear out the Lumley junction area. On Saturday, they were proved wrong as work commenced on the dismantling of buildings and the market at Lumley. This is all for a good cause though… National Development which is more important than any individual or enterprise. As far as I know, residents have been compensated.

This is part of the preparation for the “Extension of Wilkinson Road to Water Street” Project, which has an optimistic end date of July 2011. Wilkinson Road through Congo Cross to Water Street will be upgraded to a four lane highway.

Residents and landlords of the Lumley and Juba hill area should be licking their lips because if the congestion problem in that area is solved.. not only will it ease their daily frustrations but it will become a more desirable place to live once again. Sadly, it lost its prestige after the conflict and I know from experience through our real estate business that hardly anyone wants to live there these days. These areas were the choice for Presidents, Ministers and those fortunate enough to be in the higher end of the Sierra Leone – or certainly Freetown’s – citizenry.

So as I sit in my office at Congo Cross, looking at my vandalised sign board next to the fence that is supposed to be knocked down as a part of this project; I’m trying to visualise what a four lane highway running right in front of us will look (or sound like) in the next twelve months. Scary, but totally worth it for National Development.

Happy Birthday VSL! Six years later, we look back to the future

After a friend of mine reminded me of how much Visit Sierra Leone had done over the last six years – whether I realised it or not - I was forced to go back into the archives and find a document called inspiration.doc. If you remember this document, it means you have been there since day one! The first couple of paragraphs read:

“When was the last time you heard Sierra Leone mentioned in a sentence without being followed by one or more
of the following words: donated, aids, war, war child, war-torn, prostitution, rebels, amputees, corruption, poverty, rebel, RUF, child soldiers? Whilst these may be perfectly valid in the context in which they are used, anyone who’s been to Sierra Leone will know there are many other sides to the country.

Not enough is said about the natural beauty of the country, its people, and what it may have to offer to the world at large. This has been the inspiration behind the development of www.visitsierraleone.org . This website aims to promote those aspects of Sierra Leone which makes it a tourist destination for the adventurous traveller. The intention is not only to target non-Sierra Leoneans but also Sierra Leoneans scattered across all continents.”

Or course, the site looked different then and I have been looking for a screenshot but unfortunately, I didn’t keep any. I did however find the original logo which I cooked up myself one evening.

This document was sent out in July 2004 and was effectively the ‘launch’ of VSL – there was never an official launch with balloons and champagne – and it explains why VSL has remained a passion. At the time, I was a pretend nerd working in the IT department for the charity SCOPE. Now I’ve moved back to Freetown and dedicated full-time to VSL and its sister business, VSL Property, and my only regret are the internet speeds, which were much better at SCOPE in 2004 than in Freetown in 2010!
As always, one is thankful to the assistance provided by friends and family over that time, and I guess birthdays are the time to look back and reflect as well as plan for the future.
At six, VSL has changed. A lot. So many things have happened in that time. We still deal with all manner of inquiries relating to Sierra Leone, one of my personal favourites being “Can you tell me more about the poro society and how do I become a member?”… or one that came through last week “i need a sierra leone passport will that be possible even if it will cost me 500us,thanks”. Er, no. We continue to provide free advice through the forum and continue to be driven by the central goal of “rebranding Sierra Leone”, which was our catalyst in 2004 and continues to drive us today.
But from an information-based website with a single person at the helm in 2004, we are now an Inbound Tour Operator/Travel Services company with staff of six (up from one in 2008).
As recently as 2008, you’d have been hard pressed to find an operator running scheduled tours to Sierra Leone (not those organising one-off trips for adventure seekers). In 2010, we are proud to represent three UK-based operators now including Sierra Leone in their brochures, with another few from Europe in the pipeline.
We’re proud to have received acclaim from industry leaders such as Bradt Guide and the Lonely Planet.
Bradt Travel Guide for Sierra Leone: Visit Sierra Leone has single handedly done more to promote
awareness of Sierra Leone as a tourist destination than anyone else."
Lonely Planet West Africa Guide said of our forum community “Tons of travel advice and an active discussion
forum where, no matter how obscure your inquiry, someone will probably have an answer”.
Of course, I cannot talk about VSL without mentioning our forum community, who have been quite supportive over the years. It’s a blessing that relationships, both business and personal, have been formed on that platform and will hopefully stand the test of time. Perhaps one of the best things is how many of our active participants have actually relocated back to Sierra Leone. Mah-D, Fisherman, Saloneboy, DCGunner, Nasratha, Sabawaka, Joyah Bobor, DarkChild and others…we’re still waiting on you Cool-runnins!
As a small but ambitious company, our emphasis is now on serving clients to the best of our ability and with a passion for sustainable tourism development, we also provide valuable services to corporate clients and groups, both before and during their stay. We want them to leave with positive experiences and fair recommendations that Sierra Leone is worth a visit.
Among the highlights of this work was the chance to provide travel and ground handling services to South Africa’s Bafana Bafana and the Equatorial Guinea national team (our office staff are footie fanatics) but it has also been fun to learn about the positive work that many of our clients do. One example is the group at Mape Project, who we have been providing some logistical support to. Their vision for tourism development is astounding and you can find out more about their work at www.themapeproject.com.
On the development side, learning of the work that Madieu Williams, the Sierra Leonean born American football safety player for the Minnesota Vikings does through the Madieu Williams Foundation with a joint partnership with the Healing Hands Foundation in the field of Health and Education was inspiring.
A few months ago while we were in Berlin for the Travel Fair and were able to get some tour operators interested in Sierra Leone as a possible destination and just a few weeks ago, we worked with the National Tourist Board (SL) and Exodus in bringing four journalists from The Metro, Times Online, The Independent and The Press Association to Sierra Leone for a press trip. The first of those articles is out and we are proud to say that Exodus will start advertising their trips here for January 2011. See Metro Article.
Six years later, in our own little way - we’re still trying. Just imagine where we might be, with your help, six years from now.

With the Beach Bars gone…can somebody at least turn on the lights?

 
Picture courtesy of Awoko.org (http://www.awoko.org/)

Almost two years after the beach bars were demolished by truckloads of soldiers and armed police to make way for tourism revamp just how is that going? How is the beautification process coming along? No, honestly. Because I may have missed it. Maybe just getting rid of the bars was seen as beautification itself? How long do the trees need? What are those structures starting to rare their pop up where the beach bars used to be? Roy’s for example? I’m not knocking Roy’s because I like what they’ve done but it proves the point that existing owners could have been given the opportunity to modify their establishments.

In any case, this post isn’t about the bars being gone. It is about what has failed to follow. Forget the trees for a second… why is there still no power along the beach in 2010? All these shiny new restaurants and hotels like the Taia Resort have to generate their own power. 

Taia Resort

I mean, common… this is an accessible, flat stretch that already has power at the Police Post (Aberdeen end) and Golf Club (Lumley end) in the capital city.

As the President rightly tells us every now and again, infrastructure is the foundation for economic growth. So, maybe the Tourism Ministry would do well to gather round their friends from Energy and Power and any other related Ministry and get Lumley Beach out of the dark ages. Sometimes, I am tempted to believe that the powers that be are scared of Tourism development in this country and as a result, sub-consciously or otherwise, sabotage it.

Please, this is not 1910 it’s 2010 and this is our city beach; and filthy though it may be (for another article), we love it still. So if the Ministry is serious about the ‘tourism revamp’ along the beach, this would be a good start – two years later.

See earlier article about the demolition:

So what do you think of the beach bars situation?

So how is Sierra Leone these days?

This is the question posed to me by a friend who was visiting home for the first time in about a decade. “Economically, things are tough” came my initial reply.

The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST – 15%) combined with a more proactive approach to tax collection by the National Revenue Authority (NRA) and the scary presence of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has increased the cost of living in Sierra Leone. However, this is a very positive thing for Sierra Leone so it is a bitter pill we have to swallow. It is not perfect but we will learn to understand it and how it works. I do believe that 15% is on the high side, but the silver lining is that it should force us to ask where the money is going! This should be the natural - we pay tax and earn the right to demand accountability.

Add to this the fact that the entire global economy is still on a downer and it just makes things worse. The tourism industry where I am, has been seriously hit and there are no signs yet of things turning around. Sierra Leone of course, hardly has what you’d call a tourism industry anyway.

The promise of things to come…

However, I can categorically say that I am once more starting to get very optimistic about Sierra Leone’s future. There is just so much going on.

Free health for pregnant women and infants

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Sierra Leone has the world's highest death rate among pregnant women and children. Hopefully not for much longer! The government will launch free health care on April 27^th 2010. There are many questions as to whether it will be sustainable and many criticisms that the systems are not in place. As long as the government is committed to making it happen I’m sure (well I hope) they will find a way. Regardless, this is an important development for Sierra Leone and I wish them the best of luck!

Improving road infrastructure

I am very impressed with how the government appears to have taken the challenge on infrastructure head on. Some of the ongoing road projects include the

• Peninsula Road (ongoing)
• Kambia-Port Loko (ongoing)
• Masiaka-Bo-Kenema(more or less complete)
• Kenema-Koindu Road Corridor (Kenema-Pendembu 1^st phase, ongoing)
• Makeni - Matotoka (ongoing)
• Port Loko – Lungi (soon to award contract)
• Hill-Side road (soon to commence)

A couple of interesting ones are:

• Widening of Wilkinson Road (Madongo Town to Lumley
• Rehabilitation of City (Freetown) Roads

I say interesting because these are wholly funded by the Government… also taking into consideration the amount of property development in those areas, I can just imagine the chaos. It’s also scheduled to be complete in 2011. Nice!

Energy

So, not only is Bumbuna complete but another 10MW machine was just last week commissioned in Freetown. I also heard the Minister of energy and Power on the radio talking about other towns in the provinces where going to get Bumbuna power by the end of the year. Sierra Leone’s chronic energy problem is by no means solved but the political will appears to be there and sometimes that’s all it takes.

Internet Underwater cable

Now this is one that is another one that is close to my heart! Sierra Leone has confirmed its plan to connect to the Africa Coast to Europe (ACE) cable, a submarine fibre-optic system that would run along West Africa with connections to France and South Africa. The project is expected to go live in 2011. Not only should this significantly increase the bandwidth available to Sierra Leone but it should also be cheaper. I will be following this one closely.

Some interesting investments

It sounds like private money on a large scale is starting to trickle in. A lot of noise has been made about London Mining’s investment in the Marampa Iron Ore project and Addax Energy’s $400m investment in agribusiness. Both seem to hold promise – but both deals have come upon criticism from various circles. I haven’t read the small print but I hope Sierra Leone benefits from such investments. it is definitely worth following their development. According to MarketWatch, mines will see $3 Billion of Investment in Next Three Years.

Airport Ground handling

I complained about the airport in my recent blog post. I still think it’s badly run. There were two recent developments at the airport though. A firm has been awarded the contract to carry out a complete refurbishment of the airside infrastructure of Lungi Airport. In a separate development, a new company is now responsible for ground handling operations at the airport. The new ground handling company Sky Handling Partners (Sierra Leone) is a subsidiary of Groupe Europe Handling.

The new and improved Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation

I believe this we are only the second country in Africa to have a public broadcaster – after SABC. Definitely the first in West Africa.

The SLBC is the result of a merger between United Nations radio in Sierra Leone and the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Service.
Septimus Kaikai a former Minister of Information in the SLPP administration is chairman of the board of trustees.

The new and improved SLBC TV (broadcasting about 12-18 hours a day) bears almost no resemblance to SLBS TV. I'm really impressed so far... and in a country where Satellite subscription is probably under 10,000 households (DSTV is under 5k), there seems to be a lot of scope for growth as I've been led to believe they also broadcast in other districts. The program scheduling needs some work but it’s a great start. As with all things sustainability and being able to generate enough revenue is key and  I’m guessing advertising and external funding would help. However, while the do have some good reporters/programs they will need to downsize and go after new and dynamic individuals and talent to keep viewers interested. Well done SLBC, Good Luck!

 

Anti Corruption Commission

Regardless of what some might have you believe, the Anti-Corruption is a much more effective institution than ever before. For the first time we are seeing government officials at the Ministerial positions being called to task. The Minsters of Health and that of Marine Resources have both lost their jobs after being charged to court by the ACC. They follow the former head of the National Revenue Authority (NRA) and other people in office who have been prosecuted by the ACC. While corruption cannot be eradicated; the ACC under the leadership of Abdul Tejan-Cole is a fantastic ally in the fight against it.

This is not saying that all is well, there are still many challenges to overcome but there still many reasons to be optimistic about the future.

Oh, and Akon is coming to town for a concert!

Has Sierra Leone's Tourism ‘Revival’ lost its way?

Greetings from the World’s biggest Tourism/Travel Trade Fair (ITB, Berlin). Oh Sierra Leone, how I wish you were here!
Some may ask which tourism revival? Well, six years after VSL was started in 2004 we have definitely seen change in attitudes to Sierra Leone. Long way to go - I know – but there have been a lot of goodwill in the foreign press (and reputable ones too) about Sierra Leone’s tourism potential.
The Bradt guide to Sierra Leone was also a major plus for the industry – but I can’t help but feel that there is very little or no support coming from government to build on some of the goodwill from such publications. Whether it is a conscious strategy or not, I don’t know but as someone involved in the industry, I do not see what is being done to kick-start this industry. Actually, what is even more frustrating is that in some ways we have taken steps backwards.
Take the National Tourist Board for example. They have been able to do some proactive marketing, from some funds that were donated from the IF (Integrated fund) – they did promotional video, brochures, new Sierra Leone map and also the first training seminar for Tour Guides. All good. However, they have not been able to attend Tourism fairs such as the ITB in Berlin or WTM in London because of chronic lack of funding from the government. Or forget about tourism fairs – they now struggle to pay the staff of the NTB. As such, the staff morale that was the pre-2007 is all but gone. They used to levy a bed tax of 7.5% from which they keep the office running and are able to engage in on going marketing activities, which is within their mandate.
This revenue has been taken away from them and handed to the NRA. The tax has also gone from 7.5% to 15% in a couple of years. Money now goes to the NRA and as I understand it they struggle to get the necessary funding from the govt to keep their office running effectively. The NTB used to collect a lot of information from the hotels as part of this process, information which is of value to potential investors such as amount of beds and pattern of usage, occupancy etc. Of course, NRA isn’t interested in all of that stuff and it’s becoming difficult to get information (on an industry level) in order to make solid investment conclusions.
There is the airport, which is in need of a serious clean up. At every point during this trip, I was asked for money. From the point when I was dropped off by the Allied Marine shuttle, to the point I went through the final security check. How much does it cost to clean up Lungi Airport and get some sanity? Is Ministry of Tourism and that of Transport and Aviation working towards making this first point of contact a more pleasurable experience? I doubt it somewhat. The airport really ticks me off because it doesn’t require a lot of financial investment to get order.
Perhaps the destruction of the beach bars is perhaps the most decisive thing the ministry have done. They were clearing them to make way for lights and palm trees neither of which are present. In fact, rather worryingly is the increase of structures being put back on the beach. The latest, an extension of Roy’s restaurant is quite nice, but pushes the boundaries in terms of what is or isn’t a permanent structure. How long before the beach side is littered with structures again. A few weeks ago a group made of mainly of expats volunteered to clean up Lumley beach. How embarrassing. They walked the full length of the beach on one Sunday morning. The beach wardens and life guards that were part of an employment scheme have all disappeared.
There is the deforestation around the Charlotte Falls which is another of our tourist attractions. No to mention the rapid deterioration of our monuments and relics and deplorable state of sites such as Bunce Island.
Is there a plan to protect the Western Area Peninsula and land grab that will occur after the final half of the peninsula road is complete? Is there a proper plan to develop that area in a manner that will retain it’s beauty? Or are we going to allow anyone to build high-rise hotels at River Number Two?
I am convinced that the tourism industry in Sierra Leone is not being treated with any seriousness regardless of what the political rhetoric is. I remember reading reports of His Excellency’s speech after he was elected President in 2007. Tourism and Agriculture were highlighted as key industries he would be looking to develop. It has gone from this to an admission by the tourism minister that tourism is not a priority of the government, and that is a real shame especially when I hear of the challenges to tackling unemployment.
Tourism is a private sector driven industry driven by government support, much like any other. We need more from the latter.
Take Rwanda – there is lot we can learn from this country that is smaller than Sierra Leone, had “bad perceptions” issues like us and is pursuing the same strategy Sierra Leone aspires to -high end tourism. Talking to their representatives at their stand, it becomes obvious that they still have their challenges but are tackling them head on. Tourism is on the national agenda and everyone is working towards making it work for Rwanda. There is clarity of vision and an approach that works for them now, rather than saying Tourism is waiting for the other things such as infrastructure to be put in place. There is a lot we can learn from Rwanda, and they will be open as we are not direct competitors.

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Walking around the ITB, past the Zimbabwe, Sudan, Mozambique and Sudan stands – I see no reason why Sierra Leone should be absent. Didn’t we just give Haiti $100,000? A fifth of that would have gone some way to get Sierra Leone at the ITB, something that is an  investment for the future.
We can still do it, the potential is there and there are those in the private sector trying hard to make things happen. We can accomplish a lot if government and the private sector engage with each other and are driven by a common goal. Country above individual egos, ambitions and politics. We need to take control of our destiny as far as tourism goes. Political will is badly needed and the sooner we get it the better.

Ernest Bai Koroma: Sierra Leone's Clark Kent???

There are many people who look at the presidency and think of the glamour and grandeur of what it means to be the elected leader of a sovereign state. As Sierra Leoneans what we understand the role of a president to be is limited and overshadowed by the concept of absolute power which includes access to the national coffer. Either because of the past abuses of previous presidencies or a misunderstanding of the role of the president, the average person stands convinced that the president is all powerful. Last week I had the unique opportunity of accompanying President Earnest Bai Koroma to the Annual African Heads of States Meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. As we left Freetown on a chattered flight to Addis I had little idea of what to expect although my goal was to understand why so many had placed their aspirations and hopes in this man. Like many I am cynical of politicians, the things they say, do and want us to believe. And in a country where you must pay for media coverage, the truth is usually miles away from the press, one has to constantly scrutinize the news whether positive or negative.

I spent much of the time on the flight asleep while in the background Ernest Bai Koroma and his ministers traded stories of turbulent flights. It took a little over 9 hours before we reached Ethiopia. The conference had been in session for several days but the Heads of States were to meet the next day in the conference facilities of the UN Economic Commission for Africa.  The theme for this year’s conference was ICTs and their role in fostering development in Africa. There were over 500 delegates in attendance from every corner of the continent, ranging from media and ICT Professionals to parliamentarians and business people. When we entered the hall several Heads of States were already seated while many more trickled in surrounded by security personnel. President Koroma dressed in a dark blue suit and a red tie was flanked by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Deputy Minister for Information. The Minister of Education was also present as the President was to put forward a special proposal to encourage other leaders to endorse OneGoal: Education for All. OneGoal is an international campaign that seeks to use the 2010 World Cup in South Africa to promote and encourage support for the Millennium Development Education for All Goal before the UN General Assembly in New York this September.

The morning sessions opened with recognition of the undeniable connection of Haiti and the African continent, a moment of silent tribute to the Haitians lost in the tragedy brought the entire hall on its feet. In the week leading up to the conference President Koroma himself had done his part to support Haiti as he donated $100,000 to the reconstruction efforts. When all were seated I walked down to the desk designated for Sierra Leone, stood in front of President Koroma and took his photograph as he smiled. Over the course of the 10 hour day when exhaustion had taken the better part of my attitude, Ernest Bai Koroma was still smiling even as he chaired a sticky situation with the UN Committee of Ten Heads of States that included the always boisterous Muamar Ghadafi, Kenya’s Kibaki, President Wade and six other Presidents. Ghadafi wanted to know what countries would represent Africa if indeed the UN were to grant the continent permanent seats on the Security Council. As the other Heads of States became increasingly weary of Ghadafi’s rhetoric Earnest Bai skillfully navigated between allowing “the brother leader” to express his views while making sure to keep the discussion on target and moving things along. When the meeting came to a close he seemed quite pleased with himself and was all smiles as he left the hall.

We closed the day and retired to our respective hotels while the President continued working well in to the late hours of the morning discussing with his ministers and Ambassadors presenting at the next day’s closed sessions. The following morning we arrived at the Hilton hotel waiting to join the presidential convoy to the AU meetings. We went upstairs to the executive suite to greet the President. He was up, dressed and seemed to have recovered from the effects of Ethiopia’s high altitudes that sometimes make it difficult for one to breath. When we arrived President Koroma was busy making edits to the day’s speeches. He was stern on the changes he wanted to have made and spent much of the morning on his feet talking to aides and making decisions.  I found him in really good spirits having a laugh ever so often about events of the previous day or teasing staff about something he had heard. The room slowly cleared out and I found myself sitting in the same room with the President and the Sierra Leonean Ambassador to the AU.

Aljeezera flashed in the background and I read out loud a news headline criticizing Barrack Obama. We talked about the difficulties of Obama’s presidency and the heavy task of trying to manage politics and change in a period of economic downturn. We spoke about everything from Haiti, to Obama, my childhood in Ethiopia and finally rested on Sierra Leoneans in the Diaspora. We joked about the stereotypical JC (short for Johnny Just Come, JJC) handkerchief, and water bottle behavior and he gave a hearty laugh when I told him about those who would max out their credit cards to come to Sierra Leone over Christmas with new clothes. I shared with him the struggles of many in the Diaspora who after decades in the States lived precarious lives without legal residency. Shaking his head in amazement, with compassion in his voice he said “if they do not have a stay they should all come home”. As I excused myself to head downstairs in preparation for our departure President Koroma jokingly said “Bangali you know say dis pekin climb palm tree” in reference to the last episode of a TV show where I climbed a palm tree. He continued to relay the story as I left the room and like everyone else I smiled realizing that I too had been a victim of Ernest Bai’s wit.

On the eve of our departure a small dinner was organized at the Ambassador’s residence that brought together all the Sierra Leoneans in Addis Ababa. I was deeply touched by the significance Ernest Bai Koroma attributed to a meeting with individuals who were so small in number and far from home. It seemed to me that after such a long day with sessions at the AU ending just before midnight that the president should have retreated to his suites for some rest and relaxation. Instead he spoke to the group of about twenty individuals present with the candor and passion reserved for the most important of his constituency. He shared his desires to change the country and the different activities that his government would embark on in 2010 to jump start economic and infrastructural development. He highlighted plans for free healthcare for women and children starting April this year, plans to subsidize local farmers, the commissioning of several crucial road construction projects, mineral and oil exploration, energy and power, and good governance. By the end of the night the entire room was filled with reverie and everyone was eager to wish the president well. I seized up an opportunity to speak with him as everyone proceeded to the dinner table and I asked “Mr. President aren’t you tired?” “Ah I’m okay but I cant believe that you have not taken us around and shown us the sights…you noh try at all”. I smiled as I tried to make a dozen excuses explaining that there was no time in his airtight schedule.  He teased me a bit more about Ethiopia being my country and how I had disappeared the night before. I didn’t realize that the president had noticed or even been aware of my absence at the end of the previous day’s session and now here we were and I had been caught. I left his side as his food and glass of red wine were presented to him. After dinner he made sure that all those present had an opportunity to shake his hand and group photographs were taken. By the time he bade the group farewell, it was almost 2:00 a.m in the morning. The rest of us totally knackered made our way into the awaiting Embassy cars desperate to reach our hotel rooms.

We spent the better part of the following day in the lobby of the Hilton Hotel awaiting confirmation for us to head to the airport. At about 2:00 p.m. in the afternoon the speakers in the entrance echoed “Sierra Leone”. I got my bags and walked towards the cars lined up waiting for President Ernest Bai Koroma to descend. The national colors stood on the hood of a vintage dark brown stretch Rolls Royce. When the President finally walked the red carpet to the car, he wore a dark grey suit, and an air of certitude. He looked around as if to make sure everyone was ready to leave, flashed a smile at the porter who held his door and disappeared into the car. A second later the convoy was on the move and we headed for Bole International Airport.

Our 13 Seater Private jet landed well after midnight but even then and after a 12hour flight President Ernest Bai still made time to meet with his supporters in Lungi before boarding the helicopter for Freetown. I couldn’t understand where or how he got the temperament or energy to keep going. When I arrived at my house it was well into the early parts of morning, and I was grateful that my journey with President Ernest Bai Koroma was at an end. In just 4 hours while I would be catching up on sleep the President and his staff would be headed east to Kailahun to commission the construction of one of the countries most unforgiving rugged roads. I couldn’t help thinking that maybe being President does make you all powerful, allowing for Clark Kent to Superman transformations, that while the rest of us only have to deal with our own problems, the president has to look over all of us with very little time to focus on himself and his own needs. President Ernest Bai Koroma spent more than a decade in waiting before he was elected in 2007. He fully understands the dire circumstances under which he assumed power and he knows that unlike past presidencies he does not have the luxury of blaming our under development on the war. Perhaps what motivates him is the colossal task of creating opportunities for Sierra Leoneans, a desire to leave a legacy of accomplishments for the people. Whatever it might be, it is clear that whether you support him or not it will be nearly impossible to unseat him come the 2012 elections. A friend on a recent trip back from Bo, was amazed at the ease and quickness that he reached Sierra Leone’s second city, a journey that used to take anywhere from 6-8 hours, he made in 3 hours. As he reminisced on how awful the road was he alleged that “If Earnest Bai continues like this, he is really going to give them [the opposition] a run for it in the next elections.”

(Disclaimer: The Vickie Remoe Show was offered an opportunity to interview President Koroma, the shows title is "100Questions for EBK". As a result i got invited to cover his trip to the AU. I wrote the article when i returned back from Ethiopia to make sense of the whole experience. There is a line in this article about Ghadaffi that i was advised to remove but...the story would have been lost without it. After all i am just a foolish girl with a blog...no one should take me too seriously. I express and represent only my views, opinions, and feelings...photos coming soon)

Who is cutting down the trees around Charlotte Falls?

The Chinese apparently, according to locals. Apparently the Chinese are going to construct a dam up there somewhere.

According to a recent  correspondence I received… “the Chinese government assists the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) in building a hydro-dam directly above the falls, which is supposed to produce electricity for Charlotte Village. However, the villagers also confirmed that they have been neither involved in the decision making nor in the planning process.

Ironically to say that the deforestation took place directly below the large sign board of the UNDP funded "Fuel wood project for youth empowerment, job creation and sustainable development of the Western Area Peninsula Forest", being implemented by CSSL, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth & Sports. Even though this project deals with forestry related matters, there is no mentioning of the Forestry Department under the Ministry of Agriculture, Foresty & Food Security (MAFFS).”

It is doubtful whether an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been conducted, as stipulated for such type of project in the SLEPA Act 2008.

I’m no environmental expert but I don’t think this bodes well for the enormous potential for tourism development around the falls. I’ll let you judge for yourself with some before and after shots…

BEFORE

AFTER

 

HELP SAVE THE PENINSULA AREA FOREST.

Real Estate, unreal prices!

Yes sir.. yes it’s brand new but your property is not connected to NPA nor Guma Valley Water Company so sorry, it is not worth $45,000 a year in rent!

It might sound strange for someone who is involved in the Real Estate business to say that but it’s true. Anyone who has tried to rent a property in Sierra Leone will know just what i’m talking about. I don’t know if it’s a cultural thing here but I still wonder why we insist on building huge 5 or 6 bedroom properties hoping to command $30,000 in rent when either the workmanship is crap or it lacks adequate road, water or power facilities. You know what else? You only have two kids, the chances are that they will go to some other country for studies and God help you if they ever return to this country.

Sierra Leone has a high youth population so it’s no surprise that the bulk of requests we have is for 1 to 3 bedroom properties under $5,000 a year – young couple and individuals starting out their independent lives – unfortunately there is a drastic shortage of those in the market. I think it’s also a hangover from the days the UN and other many NGOs  used to be here, just after the conflict and were paying funny money for the limited properties on the market. Those days are well and truly gone but it seems no one told landlords.

As someone involved in the real estate business, it is really not in our interest to have overpriced properties on our books because that’s just where they stay. Properties that stay in the books earn no commission. I’d much rather have 2 properties rented in a year with a commission of $1,000 (for arguments sake) – than wait 2 years to earn $2,000 on one property.

Interestingly, we paid a visit to another estate agent today under the guise of looking for a property. We talked for a while, before he admitted to us that the problem is that the properties are overpriced and he launched into a bit of a rant. So this is a national problem huh? Oh well. He said they tell landlords but they are having none of it.

What is the point of holding out for $15000 annual rent (for a year) when you could have rented it for less and not lose that amount in revenue. Of course you end up spending more to do up the property after a year because an empty house deteriorates pretty rapidly.

We’re still pretty new to this but my hope is that eventually landlords will start getting a real sense of what their property is worth. A property is a long term investment for most people that’s why ordinary folk don’t pay a mortgage back in 5 years. 

Landlords, if your beautiful property has not rented for over a couple of years.. hint.. your pricing may be wrong. They say the right price of a product is what people are prepared to pay for it.

As for those looking for a property in Sierra Leone, trust me – I feel your pain. This is a task which requires three vital things… patience, luck or money (and lots of them). Good luck!

Continue to check out VSL Property for Real Estate Listings in Sierra Leone.

Christmas in Bonthe - Written by Arnold Awoonor-Gordon

When I mentioned to people in Freetown,  and even Sierra Leoneans in London that I had been to Bonthe,  the first reaction is ‘You nor dae frade de wata?’    I cannot understand this fear of the sea from a people who were mostly born within the sound of the waves of the sea.  There must be a physiological reason for this.  Although Bonthe can be reached by a long and not too comfortable road,  yet the easiest way is by boat,  and we choose a speed boat.  Anyway the boat ride from the Freetown Aqua Sports Club was smooth,  and we were able to pick out various beaches on the peninsular as we speed along, passing Kent,  the southern  most tip of the Peninsular,  Banana Island,  Plaintain Island and Shenge.   The approach to Bonthe was rather spectacular with the low laying mangrove swamp forming a spectacular foreground  to the low laying chalets  of the Bonthe Holliday Village which came into sight as we approached the small jetty.

The sight of an old PZ warehouse on the seafront reminded us of the long and profitable economic place that Bonthe,  which is situated on Sherbro Island, has in the development of Sierra Leone.  This was at a time when the produce of the interior of the country such as piassava (for those who don’t know what piassava is used for,  it is in the making of brushes and bristles, and at one time Bonthe exported two thirds of the worlds piassava) palm oil,  palm kernel,  ginger and above all, rice,  passed through Bonthe on to the worlds markets.  Large ships from around the world came to Bonthe to carry these produces to a  world hungry for these produces, and one can imagine the hustle and bustle as this  island,  the same size as Jamaica, became the centre of the export trade of Sierra Leone.  The coming of the railways and building of roads into the hinterland of the country killed Bonthe as an economic and vibrant export heart of the country.  The piassava trade was also devastated when the world discovered that plastic made cheaper brushes.   Today all this is left are the old warehouses of such illustrious trading companies as SCOA,  CFAO, PZ and several other companies whose names are no more recognised today by younger Sierra Leoneans.

As we approached the group of chalets that make up the Bonthe Holiday Village,  one immediately saw the hands of Joy Samake,  owner of Balmaya restaurant at Congo Cross, one of the partners in the project,  stamped all over the place.  The other partners in the project is the  eminent Sierra Leonean and Bonthe resident,  Dr Peter Tucker,  who had the first holiday camp on the site and indeed owns the land he has leased to the partnership.  The third partner is Englishman Martyn Marriott, who has had a long association with Sierra Leone in the diamond business,  and has had a credible desire to invest and give something back to the country.    The layout,  the manicured lawn, shell gravel path and the design of the chalets shows the care and devotion that she has put into making the place the island of haven it has become.  Her hands can also be seen in the layout, design and construction of the chalets, and what is more important, the high quality of the materials used and the high quality of the fittings and furnishings.  The bedrooms and bathrooms are of a standard comparable ( and in some cases,  better)  to anything found in the so called five star hotels in Freetown.  And what is more,  everything worked...the toilets flushed,  hot and cold water came at the turn of taps,  good quality bath towels (changed daily)  and the floors were cleaned each day.  I understand that  most  of the material used in the construction of the chalets and  public buildings were imported from Italy.  Now one could see, understand and admire the hard work put in by Joy in transporting everything by road from Freetown to the  Mattru or Yargoi,  the nearest point to Bonthe.  From there everything (including tomatoes) has to be put on boats and ferried across to the Bonthe.  One must admire the drive and tenacity of Joy for making it all possible despite having to do the weekly drive from Freetown  on unpaved and potholed roads, taking building materials and supplies for the building of what I can only describe as world class complex of chalets.

The attraction  of the Bonthe Holiday Village is the game-fishing which attracts sports anglers  from around the world.  When the largest tarpon was caught off the waters of Bonthe in the early 1990s,  it made headlines in international sports-angling circles,  and game-fishing mad men from around the world wanted to visit Bonthe to see whether they could beat the record.  Since then  12 world records in various line classes,  and weighing between  166kg and 283kg,  have been caught in the area. A days fishing trip from the village is a must  and can be arranged, if you are so inclined.  But not being so inclined,  I spent most of the time laying by the pool and cooling off either by jumping into the pool or sipping gin and tonic complete with lime and lots of ice. But there are other type of fish to be caught in the area such barracuda, yellow jack, grouper and giant mackerel.

One other speciality of the Bonthe Holiday Village is the food.  Prepared in the open plan kitchen,  another trade mark of Joy,  it is up to international standards and prepared by a chef from  Benin,  the  former French African country,  and who learned his culinary skills in some of the best hotels along the West African coast.  Breakfast of bacon and eggs and tomatoes,  lots of toasted baguettes and masses of local coffee.  Lunch consists of fish caught locally and from the sea to the table in a few hours,  which tasted  like fish never tasted before.  As we spent Christmas at the village,  we were treated to turkey with all the trimmings, followed by Christmas pudding, something to remind us of home in the UK were most of the guests came from.

Visiting the Bonthe Holiday Village is a must for anyone visiting Sierra Leone and especially Sierra Leoneans who, putting away their fears of ‘wata’ would find it an unsual experience visiting an upmarket holiday concept  partly owned, designed and managed by a Sierra Leonean.

To book your stay at the Bonthe Holiday Village you can contact Visit Sierra Leone or click here to book