The Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, has presented Sierra Leone’s youth development strategy on an international stage during a high-level delegation visit to Daegu City, South Korea. The strategic mission, focused on enhancing skills development, cultural exchange, and global cooperation, signals the nation’s proactive approach to creating opportunities for its young population.
Minister Sannoh was accompanied by Mrs. Aisha Sema Sillah, Minister Plenipotentiary and Head of Chancery at the Sierra Leone Embassy in Seoul, and Joseph Maada Lahai, Commissioner of the National Youth Commission. The delegation engaged in
Parliamentary Human Rights Committee Conducts Oversight Visit to Port Loko Correctional Centre
The Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights conducted an unannounced oversight visit to the Port Loko Correctional Centre on Wednesday, 27th August 2025, to assess conditions and treatment of inmates.
Led by its Chairman, Hon. Dr. Unpha Koroma, the committee began its inspection at the facility’s clinic. The officer in charge, Memunatu Dumbuya, a Public Health Specialist, responded to questions regarding the administration of medical services and distribution of medication. She confirmed that she has managed the clinic for the past six months, following a transfer from the Pademba Road Correctional Centre in Freetown.
Ms. Dumbuya highlighted the quality of medical care provided, particularly for inmates living with HIV, noting that all treatment is administered confidentially to protect patients from stigmatisation. The committee observed a well-organised clinic with a satisfactory inventory of drugs and medications. Hon. Dr. Koroma commended Dumbuya for her professional management of the health facility.
During the visit, the Committee also raised concerns about the detention of underage inmates. Hon. Lawyer Alpha Bah noted a rise in such cases but clarified that the responsibility lies with the police and judiciary, as correctional centres only receive inmates remanded by the courts. He urged correctional officials to expedite cases involving minors to reduce the number of juveniles in detention.
One specific case discussed was that of Alusine Samura, a juvenile held under direct indictment from the court. The committee pledged to closely monitor his situation.
The delegation also visited the female inmates’ wing, where Committee Member Hon. Mariama observed that the cells were equipped with window guards but lacked actual windows. The inmates reported frequent cases of malaria due to constant mosquito bites. The Officer in Charge committed to installing mosquito nets by September to mitigate the issue.
The visit underscored the Committee’s ongoing efforts to monitor human rights conditions in detention facilities and advocate for necessary improvements.
