Editorial: SLPP Fast Degenerating Into Tribal Mudslinging

Ongoing political infightings in the Sierra Leone People Party (SLPP) can best be described as a political party damaging its credibility in the doldrums of hatred and tribalism. The SLPP is fast degenerating into tribal mudslinging as was again manifested on Wednesday, April 23, 2014 during the hearing of the matter of the former contender of the SLPP Chairmanship, Allie Bangura and others Vs the Sierra Leone Peoples Party, at the Supreme Court. It was unfortunate to see members of Sierra Leone's oldest political party attacking each other with spiteful languages and using all sorts of tribal anecdotes in the public view around the vicinity of the court. They were so determined and ferocious that the need for tolerance wasn't adhered to, but manifested total display of damnable detestation against each other, with Mendes attacking Temnes of wanting to defile the SLPP and Temnes accusing the Mendes of wanting to hold the SLPP to ransom. The action by few of these fanatics of opposing sides was regarded by others, as betrayal of the ethos of democracy, tolerance and respect for the rule of law and a deliberate attempt to sow tribalism in the SLPP. The matter of the former Sierra Leone Ambassador to Ghana, Amb. Allie Bangura Vs the SLPP is being heard in court and the membership should therefore give the court their full support for a conclusion of the matter. It does not warrant opposing sides to unleash tantrums as a way to sway the adjudication of the matter because the Judges in our courts knows better and have handled many other cases in the best interest of the nation. The complainant and the respondent have rights of hearing and the Supreme Court will do justice to the cause. Vulgarism will never answer their questions and will ever continue to divide their membership if the supporters and members do not stop the attitude of attack and bite! We want peace to continue to reign in Sierra Leone and now that the majority of the people are awaking to the new chapter of progress, it is important for us all to bring together our forces for the better good of this nation. Let therefore the matter in the court be heard and let the indifference not again be made to spill on the tarmac of our court. We want peace!

WHAT IS EBOLA VIRUS?

Ebola disease, also called Ebola hemorrhagic fever or Ebola fever, is a rear and often fatal illness that humans and non humans, primates (such as monkeys and gorillas) can contract. There have been several outbreaks of Ebola fever in Africa. TYPES OF EBOLA VIRUS: THERE ARE FIVE TYPES OF EBOLA VIRUS. 1. EBOLA -ZAIRE, 2, EBOLA - SUDAN, 3, EBOLA -IVORY COAST , 4, EBOLA -BUNDIBUGYO AND THE LAST ONE 5, IS EBOLA RESTON. All of the above are found in Africa, except Ebola Reston Virus which is found in the Philippines. CAUSES OF EBOLA: One can get Ebola virus through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected animal or human. These include blood, saliva, semen, vomit, urine or feces. According to the WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION, one can also get the virus by handling a sick or dead person or animal that has been infected with Ebola (WHO, 2007) WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF EBOLA FEVER? If you are exposed to any of the African forms of Ebola virus, you will begin to display symptoms within 2 to 21 days following exposure. The onset is rapid and the initial symptoms resemble those of a common flu infection FEVER, HEADACHE, SORE THROAT, JOINT AND MUSCLE SORENESS, AND WEAKNESS. As the Ebola fever progresses, the symptoms become more severe late -stage symptoms of Ebola virus may include VOMITING , DIARRHEA, REDNESS IN THE EYES , SWELLING OF THE GENITALS, INTERNAL BLEEDING ( SOME PATIENTS MAY HAVE BLOOD COMING FROM THEIR NOSE, EYES, EARS MOUTH AND RECTUMS AND BLEEDING RASH OVER THE ENTIRE BODY. . HOW IS EBOLA FEVER DIAGNOSED? Ebola fever is diagnosed using blood tests to detect the Ebola virus in your blood. Your Doctor may test you for the virus if you have symptoms of Ebola fever and if you have been recently been exposed to it. . HOW IS EBOLA FEVER TREATED? At present, there is no cure for Ebola fever. The only available treatment is meant to help to ease your symptoms. These are OXYGEN THERAPY, INTRAVENOUS FLUIDS, BLOOD TRANSFUSSIONS, and MEDICATION TO TREAT SHOCK AND PAIN MEDICATIONS. . GETTING HELP: Call your Doctor right away if you develop symptoms of Ebola fever or been exposed to it. The earlier you receive treatment the better your chances will be for survival. . HOW CAN EBOLA FEVER BE PREVENTED? You can lower your risks of becoming affected with the Ebola virus by avoiding exposure to areas of Ebola virus. Avoid handling live or dead wild animals or someone who has the symptoms of Ebola fever Colburn is Sierra Leonean national and medical practitioner in the United States of America.

HEALTH: Dijae Allie Azim first article on Health Tips

Promote Healthy Diets To Prevent Cardiac Arrest In Sierra Leone Sierra Leonean national and medical practitioner in the United States of America, Dijae Allie Azim, is imploring Sierra Leoneans to promote healthy diets to prevent cardiac arrest. Azim says efforts have been spent in finding effective strategies to prevent Cardiac arrest and that one of the prime causes of cardiac arrest is Ischemic heart disease. “We should encourage efforts to promote healthy diet and exercise and stop tobacco smoking,” she continued, adding that measures such as Blood pressure control, Cholesterol lowering and other Medical therapeutic interventions can be used. Abstracts of Dejae’s article: Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency in certain situation and is potentially irreversible if treated late. Unexpected cardiac arrest can lead to death within minutes. This is called sudden cardiac death (SCD). The treatment of cardiac arrest is ‘Immediate Defibrillation’ if a "shockable "Rhythm is present while CPR is used to provide circulatory support. Or to induce a "shockable” Rhythm; a cardiac arrest is synonymous with clinical death. A cardiac arrest is usually diagnosed clinically by the observation of the carotid pluses. Lack of carotid pulses is the GOLD standard of clinical death. Myocardial infarction or hearts attack occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked for a long enough time resulting to part of the heart muscles to damage or die. The most common underlying causes of heart attack is Coronary artery disease (CAD), narrowing of the arteries causes less flow from the heart muscles and completely blocks the artery and flow of blood and causes blood clots. The risk factors are smoking of tobacco, physical inactivity, Obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, eating fatty foods such as too much of palm oil. Treatment of Heart attack or myocardial infarction: (Administration of Oxygen), Aspirin 81mg or 325mg daily, Nitro glycerin tabs, pain medication, defibrillators that can restart the heart if it stops. Signs and symptoms: chest pain, angina, shortness of breath, dizziness and sweating, chest pain as if some heavy elephant is sitting on your chest, pain radiates from chest to shoulder, jaws and neck. When the breathing stops the heart stops 0 to 4minutes - clinical death, 4 to 6 minutes brain damage possible 6 to 10minutes, brain damage likely after 10minutes is irreversible brain damage which is biological death. Are you prepared for the first response, the ABC of CPR when you find someone unresponsive, call the person, tap or gently shake the person, if the person did not respond call an ambulance or call someone to get a van to take the unresponsive person to the hospital. While you are waiting for the ambulance you (witness) should be the first person to initiate CPR immediately by doing the ABC of CPR: A- air way: open the mouth by tilting the head and lifting the chin of the unresponsive person will move the tongue away from falling back on the throat and allow an open air way. B- Seal the nose: If the person is not breathing give two (2) slow breathes per 3 seconds, place your mouth around the person’s mouth with a tight seal, if possible, use a mouth piece or protective for fluid barrier. While giving the 2 slow breaths make sure the chest raises for mouth barrier you can use a tiny plastic bag and cut it like the shape of the mouth. C- Circulation: after 2 slow breaths for 5 seconds, check for signs of circulation by observing the chest, coughing, good skin color, pink if the person is not breathing and blue color when no circulation. Start CPR 2: For CPR to be effective, compressions need to be fast. 30 compressions should take about 18 seconds, after 2 circle check for pulse, but if you check the carotid pulse ABD are present continues CPR for 2 seconds and stop. If you CHECK the carotid and there are no pulses, stop the CPR and tell the health care team, no respiration, person is gone. When breathing and the heart stops suddenly, sometimes it’s reversible if CPR is initiated on time and irreversible when CPR is not initiated on time and thus becomes biological death. Heart attack is myocardial infarction medical term and it is caused by Coronary artery disease by narrowing the Arteries and blocking blood flow and thus causing blood clots and often leads to cardiac arrest. As for CPR, every citizen should be trained how to perform CPR for people to always be able to check the carotid pulses when they find an unresponsive person suffering from such a condition, the carotid pulses is found on the neck area. Cardiac arrest needs an emergency care, when breathing stops the heart will stop, the first 0 to 4 minutes; if CPR is not performed the brain will suffer from clinical death. 4 to 6 minutes if no CPR is done, the brain will experience brain damage and if 10 minutes after cardiac arrest if no CPR is done the brain will experience irreversible brain damage, what we call biological death. My goal is for everyone to know how to perform CPR in Sierra Leone, when I visit my town Kambia and my Orphanage in Kambia I will make sure I train people to perform CPR, it saves lives.

Hope for patients with Burkett Lymphoma in Sierra Leone

Since Rowaca Cancer Group started operations in 2007 as a non-governmental organization on cancer, our efforts have over the years centered on helping children with cancer. Most of the cases brought to us have often been cases of swollen neck and other swellings in the body with family members citing ‘Morpia’, a local name for the ailment in the Temne dialect, Northern Sierra Leone. We continuously raise the issue at our normal meetings citing lack of research on Morpia until we get the approval of the country’s forensic pathologist, Dr. Owizz Koroma, who carryout in-depth studies on Morpia and joined our call for intervention. As a result of our efforts and the support of Dr. Moses O. M. Sesay, a retired surgeon and former Member of Parliament, we were able to know that Morpia is a case of benign or malignant form of tumor, which normally is Burkett Lymphoma. We were made proud by Dr. Owizz Koroma when he pronounced during one of our cancer meetings that doctors at the Connaught Hospital are doing a research on Morpia. Today, doctors are looking at the issue of Morpia with efforts being made to address Burkett Lymphoma in the country with a team of medical doctors to be in Sierra Leone soon and will be working with doctors in Freetown and in the North. We shall be updating you of development as efforts to bring smiles on the faces of people with cancer continue in Sierra Leone. Alpha Bedoh Kamara Founder and team leader.

Dep. Minister of Tourism Boost Cancer Advocacy in Sierra Leone

The Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Kadija O. Sesay, informed cancer stakeholders in Sierra Leone during a meeting held yesterday at the Connaught Hospital that nationwide campaign should be held for cancer awareness. The minister, after playing a vital role in the successful commemoration of ‘World Cancer Day on February 4, said she was happy to be a party to the campaign against cancer in the country, adding that cancer is no longer a silence in Sierra Leone. “Cancer is a worldwide ailment. None of us will say cancer hasn’t kill a friend or family member,” she said, adding that it has been killing people in the country because there were no facilities for diagnosis or medical attention. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Access to effective and affordable cancer treatments in developing countries, including for childhood cancers, would significantly reduce mortality, even in settings where health-care services are less well developed.

(L-R) Madam Kadija O. Sesay, Dr. Koroma and Mrs. Koroma The IARC report further states that the spiralling costs of the cancer burden are damaging the economies of even the richest countries and are way beyond the reach of developing countries, as well as placing impossible strains on health-care systems. “In 2010, the total annual economic cost of cancer was estimated to reach approximately US$ 1.16 trillion. Yet about half of all cancers could be avoided if current knowledge was adequately implemented…” the report states. Madam Sesay said this is reason why the National Cancer Registry should be supported to be able to provide the data for successful medical attention. “We have to push the process. We should be the donors and fundraisers to build the campaign against cancer in the country so that our people will know about the ailment and how they could better protect themselves,” she said. She said the commemoration of World Cancer Day created positive impacts on the lives of many and therefore efforts should now be made by all stakeholders to take the campaign to all parts of the country. “When we continue to create the awareness it will help change the attitude of our people,” she noted, adding that there is need for regional secretariats on cancer. “We should get more people involved in the campaign against cancer in Sierra Leone,” he said, reiterating that cancer doesn’t know age, wealth, tribe or colour. The Director of the National Cancer Registry, Dr. Semion Owiz Koroma, said cervical cancer has surpass breast cancer and that efforts should be made by stakeholders to raise the awareness throughout the country. He also thanked all the stakeholders for the successful commemoration of ‘World Cancer Day’ and implored them to continue the good work for a better Sierra Leone. “Having Madam Kadija O. Sesay as one of us is a good omen in our fight against cancer in the country,” he said. The IARC also states that based on the latest statistics on trends in cancer incidence and mortality worldwide, this new book reveals how the cancer burden is growing at an alarming pace and emphasizes the need for urgent implementation of efficient prevention strategies to curb the disease. “Despite exciting advances, this Report shows that we cannot treat our way out of the cancer problem,” states Dr Christopher Wild, Director of IARC and co-editor of the book. “More commitment to prevention and early detection is desperately needed in order to complement improved treatments and address the alarming rise in cancer burden globally,” it states, adding that in 2012, the worldwide burden of cancer rose to an estimated 14 million new cases per year, a figure expected to rise to 22 million annually within the next two decades. “Over the same period, cancer deaths are predicted to rise from an estimated 8.2 million annually to 13 million per year. Globally, in 2012 the most common cancers diagnosed were those of the lung (1.8 million cases, 13.0% of the total), breast (1.7 million, 11.9%), and large bowel (1.4 million, 9.7%). The most common causes of cancer death were cancers of the lung (1.6 million, 19.4% of the total), liver (0.8 million, 9.1%), and stomach (0.7 million, 8.8%),” said the report.

Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom elects Paramount Chief

Having been elected Paramount Chief of Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom, Porto Loko District, on the 21st January 2010, Paramount Chief Shebora Sheba Gbereh has formally been inaugurated as Paramount Chief of Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom after going through the traditional “Kantha” ceremony.

Hundreds of dignitaries, government officials, Paramount chiefs and local people witnessed the coronation ceremony which officially took place under a big traditional cotton tree at Yongoro Town in Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom. Giving the key note address in another ceremony organized after the official Coronation Ceremony Paramount chief Bai Shebora Sheba Gbereh lll thanked God Almighty, his ancestors and his people for his position.

AML Executive Director: nobody will reverse the landmark of President Ernest Bai Koroma.

The Executive Director of African Minerals (AML), Mr. Gibril Moseray Fadika, said today (22 February 22, 2014) in Pepel Island that nobody will reverse the landmark of President Ernest Bai Koroma. “There is no other leader who is deployment oriented than President Koroma,” Fadika said to applauding cheers.

The President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, visited Pepel Island and commissioned the handing over of a Health Center, Club House, Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma Flyover, a market and store and Fadika Drive. The cost of the construction is estimated at USD443, 600. 00, approximately LE1,931,660,000.00 in local currency. People from the various sections in Pepel graced the occasion amidst drumming and singing. The President said before the operations of AML in Pepel it was almost a ghost town but that life has again been injected into it with more activities now taking place. The Paramount Chief of Lokomasa Chiefdom, Bai Massoh Laminaya Ngbathor II, and other dignitaries were in attendance.

Global battle against cancer won’t be won with treatment alone

Effective prevention measures urgently needed to prevent cancer crisis The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the specialized cancer agency of the World Health Organization, is today launching World Cancer Report 2014, a collaboration of over 250 leading scientists from more than 40 countries, describing multiple aspects of cancer research and control.

Women in Sierra Leone can be prevented with awareness raising campaigns Based on the latest statistics on trends in cancer incidence and mortality worldwide, this new book reveals how the cancer burden is growing at an alarming pace and emphasizes the need for urgent implementation of efficient prevention strategies to curb the disease. “Despite exciting advances, this Report shows that we cannot treat our way out of the cancer problem,” states Dr Christopher Wild, Director of IARC and co-editor of the book. “More commitment to prevention and early detection is desperately needed in order to complement improved treatments and address the alarming rise in cancer burden globally.” Increasing global burden of cancer In 2012, the worldwide burden of cancer rose to an estimated 14 million new cases per year, a figure expected to rise to 22 million annually within the next two decades. Over the same period, cancer deaths are predicted to rise from an estimated 8.2 million annually to 13 million per year. Globally, in 2012 the most common cancers diagnosed were those of the lung (1.8 million cases, 13.0% of the total), breast (1.7 million, 11.9%), and large bowel (1.4 million, 9.7%). The most common causes of cancer death were cancers of the lung (1.6 million, 19.4% of the total), liver (0.8 million, 9.1%), and stomach (0.7 million, 8.8%). The cancer divide As a consequence of growing and ageing populations, developing countries are disproportionately affected by the increasing numbers of cancers. More than 60% of the world’s total cases occur in Africa, Asia, and Central and South America, and these regions account for about 70% of the world’s cancer deaths, a situation that is made worse by the lack of early detection and access to treatment. Avoidable deaths Access to effective and affordable cancer treatments in developing countries, including for childhood cancers, would significantly reduce mortality, even in settings where health-care services are less well developed. However, the spiralling costs of the cancer burden are damaging the economies of even the richest countries and are way beyond the reach of developing countries, as well as placing impossible strains on health-care systems. In 2010, the total annual economic cost of cancer was estimated to reach approximately US$ 1.16 trillion. Yet about half of all cancers could be avoided if current knowledge was adequately implemented. “The rise of cancer worldwide is a major obstacle to human development and well-being. These new figures and projections send a strong signal that immediate action is needed to confront this human disaster, which touches every community worldwide, without exception,” stresses Dr Wild. Effective vaccination campaigns and health promotion Many developing countries continue to be disproportionately affected by the double burden of high infection-related cancers (including those of the cervix, liver, and stomach) and the rising incidence of cancers (such as those of the lung, breast, and large bowel) associated with industrialized lifestyles. Courtesy of http://www.iarc.fr/en/media-centre/pr/index.php

Nonsmokers with lung cancer have to battle stigma, too

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., more than breast, prostate, colon and pancreatic cancers combined. Ten to 15 percent of people diagnosed each year were never smokers. But the stigma that it’s their fault haunts patients, support groups and even research funding.

Dir. National Cancer Registry: Dr. Owizz Koroma, Dir. Thinking Pink Breast Cancer Foundation: Mrs. Crimilda Pratt, and Founder and Team Leader of Rowaca Cancer Group: Alpha Bedoh Kamara CHICAGO — November was Lung Cancer Awareness Month, but you’d never know it. Shoppers aren’t bombarded by products in blue, the color designated by some to raise the profile of the disease. No NFL players or coaches wore blue-ribboned apparel, despite donning pink just a month earlier for breast cancer. “It just doesn’t seem fair,” said Meghan O’Brien, 31, a nonsmoker diagnosed with stage 4 of the disease last year. There is no stage 5. The lack of buzz is especially perplexing because lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, claiming more lives than breast, prostate, colon and pancreatic cancers combined. The five-year survival rate is just 16 percent — a statistic that has barely budged since 1975, according to the American Cancer Society. But lung cancer is seen as a tobacco-related illness that patients bring upon themselves. About 10 to 15 percent of the roughly 228,000 people diagnosed with lung cancer each year were never smokers, according to the LUNGevity Foundation, a Chicago-based support organization. Stigma negatively affects everything from emotional support to the anemic November awareness campaign. Even in obituaries, family members feel compelled to include the “nonsmoker” status, lest the deceased be unfairly judged. However, nowhere is the disparity felt more acutely than in funding research. The National Cancer Institute estimates that $17,835 is spent per breast-cancer death versus $1,378 for lung cancer, even though lung cancer accounts for almost 23,000 deaths annually among nonsmokers. “If we don’t start paying attention and changing attitudes, we will have a losing battle ahead of us,” said Dr. Ravi Salgia, O’Brien’s oncologist at University of Chicago Medicine. “In every other disease, the first question people ask is, ‘How can I help?’ But with lung cancer, there’s no empathy. It’s always, ‘Did you smoke?’ After a while, it’s just easier not to say anything,” said Andrea Ferris, president and chair of the LUNGevity Foundation. In O’Brien’s case, doctors pinpointed a rare genetic mutation, called ALK, created when two normal genes fuse together to form a new, cancer-causing one. <b> https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/reportback2014">

89 Year-Old Dies in Inferno

89 year old woman Janet Abiodu Williams is reported to have died in a blaze on Tuesday while her 22 Williams Street Kissy residence in Freetown was engulfed in fire. According to Bankie Lardge, son of the deceased, the actual cause of the fire is unknown, but it was believed to have started around 8:00-8:30 am that day, when he was feeding his pigs in the pen. “I heard my daughter shouting, fire! Fire!” he said, adding the blaze was first noticed at the top floor of the wooden house where the late Mrs. Williams’ apartment was. “Before I could rush up stairs to rescue my mother, the fire had already taken over the entire apartment, and it was too late for me to rescue my mother,” he lamented. The board house was completely engulfed in flames with properties worth millions of Leones lost. Eyes witnesses said although Fire Force officers later arrived on the scene, the timely intervention of the community people prevented the blaze from extending to nearby houses. Fire accidents are recently not uncommon in the east end of Freetown. Just two days back, another fire accident occurred along Bai Bureh Road Kissy, leaving properties worth millions of Leones in total ruins.

WORLD CANCER DAY IN PICTURES

COMMEMORATION OF WORLD CANCER DAY IN SIERRA LEONE SUPPORT ROWACA CANCER GROUP TO HELP ADDRESS THE CANCER MENACE IN SIERRA LEONE!! YOUR SUPPORT WILL HELP MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

Cells from eyes of dead 'may give sight to blind'

Tests in rats, reported in Stem Cells Translational Medicine, showed the human cells could restore some vision to completely blind rats.

The team at University College London said similar results in humans would improve quality of life, but would not give enough vision to read. Human trials should begin within three years. Donated corneas are already used to improve some people's sight, but the team at the Institute for Ophthalmology, at UCL, extracted a special kind of cell from the back of the eye. These Muller glia cells are a type of adult stem cell capable of transforming into the specialised cells in the back of the eye and may be useful for treating a wide range of sight disorders. Continue reading the main story “Start Quote This interesting study shows that Muller glial cells are another viable avenue of exploration for cell therapy in retinal diseases” Dr Paul Colville-Nash Medical Research Council In the laboratory, these cells were chemically charmed into becoming rod cells which detect light in the retina.

E-cigarettes will be regulated as medicines in Britain

Electronic cigarettes heat liquid nicotine contained in a disposable… (Tim Ireland / Associated…) Electronic cigarettes along with products containing nicotine will be classified and licensed as medication in Britainby 2016. The battery-powered cigarettes, known as e-cigarettes, deliver an experience similar to standard cigarettes by heating liquid nicotine in a disposable cartridge and producing a vapor that can be inhaled. Culled from http://articles.latimes.com/2013/jun/12/business/la-fi-mo-electronic-cigarette-medicine-20130612

Olive Oil May Protect Against Diabetes

Previously, a number of studies have shown that adherence to a Mediterranean diet – rich in olive oil, nuts, as well as fruits, vegetables, and legumes, and limited amounts of dairy products, red meat, soda drinks, processed meats, and sweets – inversely associates with cardiovascular risks. Jordi Salas-Salvado, from the Hospital de Sant Joan de Reus (Spain), and colleagues studied data collected on 3,541 men and women, ages 55 to 80 years, at high cardiovascular risk but without diabetes at the study’s start. Subjects were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 diets: a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil; a Mediterranean diet supplemented with nuts; or a control diet (advice on a low-fat diet). No intervention to increase physical activity or lose weight was included. The researchers observed that those subjects on the Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil were the least likely to develop type-2 diabetes, at a 30% reduced likelihood over the next 4 years (as compared to the control diet). The study authors report that: “A Mediterranean diet enriched with [extra-virgin olive oil] but without energy restrictions reduced diabetes risk among persons with high cardiovascular risk.” Culled from: http://www.worldhealth.net/

We Are Dedicated To Meeting Our Challenges - President Ernest Bai Koroma

The President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, has informed diplomats and other international representatives that though Government is still faced with challenges in transforming the country yet is dedicated to meeting them head-on.

The President made this reassurance during the formal launching of the presidential meeting of the forum of diplomatic and foreign relations at State House. “This forum is organized at a time of transformation: a transformation of our nation’s key development program from the Agenda For Change, to the Agenda for Prosperity; a transformation of our economy from a heavy reliance on aid to one with colossal foreign Direct Investment and amongst the fastest growing in the world; and the transformation of our governance system to one that is open, transparent, accountable and supportive of international peace, security and prosperity,” he said. The President said Government still face challenges in all these transformations, but are dedicated to meeting them head-on. “We call on all of you present here today to support us sustain the alliances we have with your countries for overcoming these challenges; we call on you to support us sustain the partnerships for international peace and security; and we ask that we support each other to strengthen the bonds for promoting inclusive economic growth, the bonds for improving capacities for economic diplomacy, for transformative relationships and for cooperation in areas ranging from the reform of the United Nations, to fight piracy in the gulf of Guinea, combating trafficking in persons, and building peace in South Sudan, the Central African Republic, Somalia, and Syria,” he implored.

UN Representative Says Paramount Chiefs Are Importance In Development

The United Nations Secretary-General’s Executive Representative and head of United Nations Integrated Peacebuilding Office in Sierra Leone (UNIPSIL), Jens Anders Toyberg-Frandzen, said during the National Council of Paramount Chiefs - Sierra Leone (NCPC-SL) National Meeting of Chiefs on the Constitutional Review Process held in Kenema, Southern District, that the UN recognises their role. “The UN recognizes the important role you played as leaders during the war, and especially for your work in helping to lay the foundations for the peace Sierra Leone enjoys today. The President has encouraged participation in this national Constitutional Review process, and emphasized the importance of inclusiveness at every step, and at all levels. The Constitution is owned by and applies to all citizens of Sierra Leone, equally. This needs to be understood by everyone to whom the constitution applies,” he said. Toyberg-Frandzen said their influence as Paramount Chiefs, for the promotion of social justice, especially in peace and conflict prevention is unquestioned. “The constitutional review process offers a perfect opportunity to consolidate and safeguard Sierra Leone’s hard-won gains over the years. Therefore, the Constitutional Review process itself, if managed well, will strengthen the culture of democracy, and help to develop a tradition of the rule of law and meaningful participation in decision-making,” he reiterated. He said the Constitutional Review Process is a unique opportunity for voices to be heard, adding that stakeholders are being engaged and mobilized to take part, but implored them that it is also recognized that, for the participation of groups of stakeholders to be effective, it needs to be well-informed and coordinated. Over 100 Paramount Chiefs gathered to discuss the importance of reviewing the constitution as well as their own role in ensuring an in

clusive, non-politicized and peaceful process from 28 to 30 January 2014 in Kenema.

Howard University Provide Support For Fourah Bay College

The Chemistry Department of Howard University in the United States of America has donated twenty five laptops, five desktops, five weighing machines with a vacuum pump to the Chemistry Department of Fourah Bay College. The Head of the Chemistry Department at Fourah Bay College, Pascal Egbenda, said the donation was as a result of a MOU with Howard University, which he noted, is yet to be signed because of a change of leadership at Howard. The acquaintance, he said, was initiated by Dr Patrick Lukulay, alumni of Fourah Bay College and Vice president of the Global Health Impact Program at United States pharmacopeia. “Our correspondence with Howard has paved ways for large consignment of research equipments from various sources in the US,” he said, adding that the department of Chemistry has better staff to guide students with two principal laboratory technicians to be trained to become chief technicians. He said they are also pleased to report that the Chemistry Department is a beneficiary of the Padia Project through which they were provided with laboratory equipment. “However, with the large number of intake at the Chemistry Department we need more equipment for laboratory classes,” he noted. Egbenda said the department is presently engaged in developing new and attractive diploma and certificate courses such as analytical, petroleum and other industrial chemistry courses as a result of the change in market structure as well as working in line with the aspirations and the performance contract of the University of sierra Leone. Presenting the items on behalf of Professor Joe fortunack of Howard University, Dr Patrick Lukulay said the equipment will be used to conduct better practicals at the chemistry laboratory. “I was fortunate to link Professor Joe fortunack at Howard University with Dr Pascal Egbenda and I will continue to look for more opportunities that will enable universities from the US to support universities in Sierra Leone,” he said. He encouraged students at the Chemistry Department to be mindful of that fact that there are better opportunities for the department and chemistry students. By Eastina Taylor

California regulator seeks to shut down ‘learn to code’ bootcamps

A handful of California coding bootcamps are fighting for survival after receiving a stern warning from regulators. Unless they comply, these organizations face imminent closure and a hefty $50,000 fine. A BPPE spokesperson said these organizations have two weeks to start coming into compliance. In mid-January, the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) sent cease and desist letters to Hackbright Academy, Hack Reactor, App Academy, Zipfian Academy, and others. General Assembly confirmed that it began working on this issue several months ago in order to achieve compliance with BPPE. Culled from: http://venturebeat.com/2014/01/29/california-regulator-seeks-to-shut-down-learn-to-code-bootcamps/

World Futball Project Launched In Sierra Leone

22,080 footballs donate to Sierra Leone by ‘One World Futball Project’ were on 30th January 2014, launched by the Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Alhaji Samuel Sam Sumana, at the National stadium in Freetown. While delivering the keynote address and launching of One World Futball, the Vice President said Sierra Leone has triumphed and that it is high time Sierra Leoneans work together in the interest of the country. The Vice President thanked Chevrolet for sponsoring the project and also made special recognition for the inventor of the footballs, Tim Jahnlgen, for their efforts in bringing together young people to making sure football serve as means of communication. He informed the audience that the nation has triumphed through the opportunities been provided and the projects being implemented recognizes the need for gender empowerment, creating opportunities for people with disabilities and young people in society. The Minister of Sports, Paul Mohamed Kamara, said for the first time in the country’s history, the nation has benefitted from a very large consignment of gifts from One World Futbol Project – Chevrolet. He said the unique quality of the ‘One World Futball’ is that it is non-inflatable, difficult to damage and very resistant to wear and tear. “This wonderful benevolent gift to Sierra Leone from One World Futball/ Chevrolet through the Ministry of Sports is a clear manifestation of their regard and appreciation of the giant strides Sierra Leone is making in sports development, especially football under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma,” he said. “This is a symbolic moment for us to launch this football revolution,” he noted, also adding, “Madam Johansen called it ‘the dawn of an era’”. Kamara said the strides in sports cannot be disassociated with the love of sports by the President and the Vice President, stating that the president is the best squash player in the country while the VP was a dynamic football striker. He said the President, in his vision, decided three years ago to set-up the Ministry of Sports and that since then the country’s ranking in sports is positive, also that the President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Isha Johansen, is the first female to head a football body in the world; reiterating that she is a member of CAF and Committee Member of FIFA. “With Isha we are seeing the benefit of effective collaboration,” he said, disclosing further that FIFA will be sponsoring the building of a mini stadium for the development of women football as well as building another mini stadium at Wellington for the development of youth football. The Deputy Minister of Sports, Ishmael Al-Sankoh Conteh, said this is an opportunity for young people in the country, adding that Football is vital in addressing the various differences amongst the people. “We are trying to see how best we could engage our youths through sports to address issues of violence, and drugs,” he said, adding that after going through a turbulent 11 year war, Sierra Leone is faced with young people that are violent and being influenced by drugs, therefore the importance of sports. “Through sports we can engage them to be better people by improving their psychology,” he said. He said in their efforts to achieve this, they will be targeting communities, football clubs and youths. The One World Futball project is to bring the healing power of play to youth living in disadvantaged communities worldwide through the One World Futball. “While we haven’t yet figured out how to create world peace and end world hunger, it’s possible that a child to whom we give a ball will,” said the Founder of One World Futball, Tim Jahnlgen. The One World Futball represents a breakthrough in technology in a product that has seen little innovation in decades- the recreational, multi-sports ball, made of closed cell foam, the nearly indestructible One World Futball; never needs a pump and never goes flat, even when punctured multiple times.

2013 Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) Reveals Improved Health Care

The Survey, conducted by the Government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Health and Sanitation and Statistics Sierra Leone with support from the UNFPA, UNICEF and WHO, indicates progress in improving health services in Sierra Leone. The 2013 Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey preliminary results was released on Tuesday 28th January 2014. The just concluded Demographic and Health Survey among other things shows that use of modern family planning methods among married women doubled from 7 percent to 16 percent; delivery at health facilities doubled from 25 percent to 56 percent; use of Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) against malaria for under five children doubled from 26 percent to 49 percent and use of ITNs among pregnant women doubled from 27 percent to 53 percent. The report also states that antenatal care by skilled birth attendants has increased from 87 percent to 97 percent; delivery by a skilled birth provider has risen from 42 percent to 61 percent; the rate of fully immunized children has increased from 40 percent to 68 percent and ORS Use for children with diarrhoea increased from 68 percent to 85 percent “While the DHS preliminary report is yet to release data on Maternal Mortality, we are seeing encouraging trends in the decline in childhood mortality at 156 deaths per 1000 births. We will like to see a more drastic drop in childhood deaths, so there is need to double our efforts and fast-track efforts to achieve this goal. These results will force all partners to continue to work together, to further strengthen our interventions and our methods, so that progress in the health sector in Sierra Leone is sustained,” the report concluded.

Sierra Rutile Ltd Confirms Death of Young Man In Dredge Pone

Sierra Rutile Ltd. has informed the public in a statement made public that the body of a young man was discovered in an obsolete dredge pond near Moriba Town on the morning of 25 January 2014. “It is with great regret that Sierra Rutile Ltd learned that a young man’s body was discovered in an obsolete dredge pond near Moriba Town on the morning of 25 January 2014. Full details are yet to be confirmed and Sierra Rutile is working with the police and coroner to investigate the death,” the report states. According to reports, villagers alleging one of their members was killed by security personnel employed by the company stormed it quarters, attacked security personnel and vandalized property belonging to the company. The Sierra Rutile report also states “A small group of people used the incident to create a disturbance around the mine and in surrounding villages. The mining communities Paramount Chiefs, police and other community leaders have worked with Sierra Rutile’s management and security to calm the situation”.

“The company’s Community Affairs Department will continue to consult with mining communities and other stakeholders to ensure the situation remains calm,” the report further states.

Three Year Old Malnourished Still Suffering

Three year old Isatu Sesay is still suffering from an unexplained illness that kept her malnourished. Her guardian, Isatu Sankoh, said she was admitted in one of the hospitals in Freetown and later discharged but her condition is always worse. "I took her from her mother to help her recuperate but her health is always poor," she lamented, adding that at three years she is still unable to walk like the other kids.

Sierra Leone Cannot Bow Down To Cancer

Cancer, according to leading medical researchers, LIVESTRONG Foundation, UICC, ICCCPO and others, is one of the leading causes of illness and death worldwide, and its global burden predicted to rise from 12.7 million new cases in 2008 to 21.4 million in 2030, with more than half of these occurring in less developed regions. But Sierra Leone will not bow down to cancer, and we are confident that the Government, after approving the Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) policy last year in 2013 will prioritize cancer in all health decision. The United Nations General Assembly, In September 2011, declared Non-Communicable Diseases, including cancer, a social and economic challenge, especially in low- and middle-income countries. In Sierra Leone, recent figures from the National Cancer Registry are giving credence to the UN’s call for action against cancer; with the Director of the National Cancer Registry (NCR), Dr. Semion Owizz Koroma, informing the nation that cancer is in the increase and that efforts must now be made to control the spates nationwide. But that could be successfully done when the people are well informed and the Registry capacitated to effectively carry out its functions. “Gathering data to fully understand a problem can be a critical step on the path toward a remedy. Yet, in many parts of the world, accurate assessments of the burden of cancer and the distribution of its various types are unavailable or inaccurate,” NCI Director Dr. Harold Varmus and Cancer Research UK Chief Executive Dr. Harpal Kumar wrote in a March 6, 2013, commentary in Science Translational Medicine. As indicated by Dr. Harold Varmus and Dr. Harpal Kumar of the unavailable or inaccurate data, Sierra Leone is one of the many countries falling prey to this problem until now that Dr. Semion Owizz Koroma and his staff, are championing the cause to map-out the various cancer ailments affecting the people bases on tribe and region. Common types of cancer: Bladder Cancer, Breast Cancer, Colon and Rectal Cancer, Endometrial Cancer, Kidney (Renal Cell) Cancer, Leukemia, Lung Cancer, Melanoma, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Pancreatic Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Thyroid Cancer, Childhood Cancers, Adolescents and Young Adults and Women's Cancers, are all affecting Sierra Leoneans and causing social and economic challenges. For most of the elderly who have succumbed to various forms of diseases with their underlying ailments never disclosed but yet their complaints often been ‘poor digestion and constipation’ resulting to stomach problems, which unfortunately are often offhandedly linked to old age, are later found to be causes of Colon Cancer. But then our medical practitioners could not be held responsible because they lack the needed medical implements to aid them carryout their work well. This is what is faced by our new baby; the National Cancer registry (NCR), as the entities presently needs an Electronic Microscope and Microtone to be able to get accurate and reliable data. Last year, Well Woman Clinic Director, Dr. Lynette Palmer, informed Members of Parliament that cancer is a preventable disease, while noting that cancer can affect any part of the body and women suffering more from the ailment than men. She said lack of adequate diagnostic screening machines, high cost of screening and diagnostics tools, high level of illiteracy and low awareness are some of the challenges that they are facing in the fight against breast cancer in Sierra Leone. Hon. Pateh Bah of Constituency 91 said it is sad the country doesn’t have most of the equipment to treat the disease, but said efforts should be made to procure the equipment. And the founder of Thinking Pink Foundation, Mrs. Cremela Parkinson-Pratt, has emphasized that February 4th is a very important day all around the world; while Mr. Reynolds G.B Senesie, a cancer pathologist in Sierra Leone, said February 4th is to raise awareness about the dangers and effects of cancer. Considering the challenges and level of illiteracy in the country, the Ministry of Health, international cancer stakeholders and cancer stakeholders in Sierra Leone will not sit by and allow Sierra Leone to fall to cancer. Sierra Leone cannot bow down to cancer and thus the theme for this year “Debunking the Cancer Myths”. We want to see a Sierra Leone where children can get access to cancer screening, affordable and accessible medical attention and our people made no more to be frightened from tumors such as ‘Mopia’ as being called in the North of the country. It will be an irony when childhood cancer continues to be a menace with mothers hoping their Under-5s will get medical care, because the drugs are not available. We can however help change the course by working together and ensure every Sierra Leonean is made to know the dangers of cancer and its causative factors. In so doing, we would be able to save many lives that would have been exposed to cancer ailments; thus the reason for targeting the grassroots in this year’s campaign on the theme ‘Debunking the Cancer Myths’. Sierra Leone is no island by itself and should therefore be part of the campaign against cancer in the world and strive to standout among others to champion the fight. We can do that and be recognised worldwide by putting into effect remedial measures, through policies, to mitigate all forms of activities that are prone to cause or exposing our people to cancer. Such efforts, like raising tax on tobacco importation in the country and all other forms of activities that are deemed to be cancer related, can be used to finance cancer research processes in the country and procurement of medicines and standard medical equipment, to save millions of Sierra Leoneans from dying early in their lives. Dr. Semion Owizz Koroma and his team are trying but that will not solve the problem until the Government intervene to making cancer a priority in Sierra Leone and by doing so, this Nation will not bow down to cancer.

By Alpha Bedoh Kamara Leader

Temnes rank highest in cancer report

2013 report collated at the National Cancer Registry on cancer in Sierra Leone indicates an increase in cancer cases among the Temne ethnic group in Sierra Leone than the other tribes. The National Cancer Registry was established in 2011 with the purpose of getting a database of the various cancer ailments in the country with Sierra Leone’s Pathologist, Dr. Semion Owizz Koroma, serving as Director of the Registry. “We cannot address the challenges of cancer in Sierra Leone without a cancer registry, and now that we have one, we are appealing for support for us to be able to know the different cases of cancer that are affecting the people and their demographic implication,” he said. According to the 2013 statistical data of the National Cancer Registry about people reported with cancer and other benign or malignant tumors: 50 percent are Temne, 30 percent Mende, 30 percent Creoles while Koronko, Susu and Mandingo are slated at five percent each. Unfortunately, there are no available data for the other tribes, but the Registrar of the National Cancer Registry, Michael Mansaray, said they will be extending their activities by collating data from various hospitals in the country. Dr. Owizz Koroma last year said cervical cancer is on the increase in the country as well as breast cancer. “Cancer is real in Sierra Leone. We must all come onboard to address the challenges that are the causes of cancer,” he said. Choitrams Hospital, Lumley Health Centre (Government), Rokupa Hospital, Kingharman Road Government Hospital, Macauley Street Government Hospital, Ola During Government Hospital (Government), Abarnita Hospital (Private), Sierra Leone Ports Authority Hospital (NGO) and Davidson Nicol Hospital (private) will be utilized by the National Cancer Registry for more information of cases of cancer in the country. The most common cases were breast cancer, tumor, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, Burkett lymphoma, prostate cancer, cancer of the cervix, mycosis and thyroid nodules. The report also indicated a high rate of female cases with only one percent of that of male. “We can do more if we have a digital microscope and microtone,” Mansaray said, adding that when the registry is capacitated they will be able to expand their services on a wider scale to capture the demographic prevalence of cancer and the causative factors are known the better it will be for doctors to be able to proffer cure. When contacted on the issues, Dr. Moses OM Sesay said the country needs support to be able to control cancer in the country. “Many people, especially in rural areas, are not reporting for medical checkups in hospitals,” he said, adding that many died without knowledge by their families of the cause of death. Dr. Sesay said there is so much that is needed by the registry and that efforts should be made by all stakeholders to make the registry more functional. The report, however, does not represent the whole population of the country, but patients that reported and were diagnosed at the Connaught Hospital in Freetown, Sierra Leone.