Standard Times Newspaper

28/04/2026

22/04/2026

Harvest Intercontinental Ministries Kambia, Braces up for 9th Annual Thanksgiving Service

With Jonathan Abass Kamara


The Biblical context for Thanksgiving is a proactive, sacrificial response to God's character and works, rather than just fleeting emotion. It acts as a gateway to God's presence (Psalm 100: 4), offering praise for provision, salvation, and in all circumstances.
"A heart of gratitude leads to a life of generosity". A lifestyle of gratitude recognizing Him as the source of blessings.

Today, in the parlor our chief guest among other guests, is no less a person but Pastor Aki Marsh of the Harvest Intercontinental Ministries Kambia branch.

The Harvest Intercontinental Ministries Kambia, will be observing its 9th Annual Thanksgiving Service on Sunday May 10, 2026 at the Kindoya School Hall with the Pastor In Charge Aki Marsh, delivering his address on the theme: "Our Year of God's Unfailing Love" (Text Lamentations 3: 22-23).
His Topic "Grace that empowers Believers" (Empowered, Not Excused) is drawn from Romans 6: 1-2; Titus 2: 11-12 have attracted students in the parlor from different Theological seminary, including Evangelists and colleague pastors in Kambia.

Grace that empowers Believers

Exploring the topic and the theme, one of the guests in the parlor described 'Grace' as God's active, strengthening power that empowers Believers beyond their own abilities, allowing them to live godly lives, endure hardships, and serve effectively. 'It is not just pardoning grace, but transforming grace that enables spiritual growth, provides strength in weakness, and empowers obedience".
"The same grace that saved us is also the same grace that empowers us to live godly lives in this world as we await Christ's return".

GRACE

Take 1: "As God works in our lives, His grace empowers us from within for right living.
Grace doesn't mean it's no longer matters how we live, rather, grace teaches us to deny ungodliness and live in ways that pleases God".

Take 2: Empowering Grace

What is empowering grace? A blind colleague in the parlor asked: "We believe that God's empowering grace as revealed by the Holy Spirit, is the key to moving into God's destiny for His church. Grace is more than unmerited favour" "While that is a nice idea and there is some truth in that definition, I think it actually limits the power of grace teaching. It implies that I need not change, grow or become mature because God loves me just as I am.
This type of thinking greatly limits God's work in us".

SALVATION

The story gallops in the parlor referencing the Sunday Apil 12, 2026 sermon on grace with Pastor Aki Marsh, outlining that "Salvation is not a Day Cheque", maintaining that 'we can live out of sin'.
His soul-searching sermon using different texts from the bible, motivates guests in the parlor to explain their understanding thus: "In the Bible, salvation is the deliverance from the power and penalty of sin, restoring a broken relationship with God through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is considered a free gift of God's grace received through faith, not earned by human works.
Salvation offers rescue from God's judgement and promises eternal life, involving a transformation of life.

KEY ASPECTS

Guests in the parlor also dilated on five Aspects of Biblical Salvation:
* Deliverance often means being rescued from death, danger, or oppression both in a physical sense in the Old Testament and spiritually in the New Testament.
* The Problem: Humanity is separated from God by sin, which results in spiritual death and condemnation.
* The Solution: God initiated salvation through Jesus Christ as an atonement for sin.
* How to receive it: Salvation is accessed through repentance (turning from sin) and faith in Jesus Christ as Lord.
* Grace vs Works: It is a gift grace, not a reward for good behaviour.

Running away from sin

Running away from sin is a proactive, intentional avoidance of temptation rather than attempting to fight it as modeled by Joseph (Genesis 39). It implies a total separation from situations, thoughts, or environments that cause separation from God requiring immediate action (2 Timothy 2: 22).
The people who ran away from sin are weak in themselves but trust in God. They hate the sin in their own human nature. "Flee from sin is a biblical command (1 Corinthians 6: 18; 2 Timothy 2: 22) urging believers to immediately and actively run away from temptation and moral corruption, rather than testing their strength against it. It means avoid situations, thoughts, and environments that lead to evil, with an emphasis on running towards righteousness.
How to run away from sin: Abstain from fleshy lusts, because if you are going to kill sin, you're to stop lust with a peremptory strike. Make no provision for the flesh in regard to the lust.
Fix your heart on Christ
Meditate on God's word, and be constantly in prayer.

Role of a good Mother

An interesting and enlightened message on the role of a good mother
Guests in the parlor were gratified to note from Pastor Marsh's sermon that: A good mother nurtures children with unconditional love, provides emotional physical security, and imparts values that shapes character.
Key roles include: Acting as a loving caregiver, teacher, role model, and advocate who supports her child's development.
A good mother is not perfect but focuses on forstering a secure supportive environment through patience.
The good mother will plant wisdom in the life of her children and that harvest will bless her even when she's old.
She's a manager for the family, being a teacher for her children, World's best chef, household nurse, and the Financial controller.

ELDERS AWARD

Elders of Harvest Intercontinental Ministries Kambia, in a special event last year 2025 awarded their action development oriented Pastor, Aki Marsh a Certificate of Merit and Appreciation for his outstanding leadership role in promoting friendship , Bible study and teaching motivation, empathy, compassion love and care for each other.
The pastor in his wisdom and strides with divine grace, has secured a land for the construction of an ultra modern complex that will attract and accommodate more worshippers. An ongoing Fund Raising building project that seek and solicits financial, material, and moral support for the furtherance of God's divine grace in His vineyard and humanity.

Planting More Branches

Pastor Marsh, an action development oriented Man of God with entrepreneural ability, in his wisdom and support from members can proudly boast of extending God's divine work with building projects in Matham village and Madina Tonko Limba chiefdom with some agricultural projects in some of these surrounding villages.

The church has so far stretched into two chiefdoms: Magbema and Tonko Limba respectively.
In the space of four to five years, they planted four Fellowship - Branches in Magbema chiefdom namely, Harvest Intercontinental Ministries Kambia township with an ongoing building project. Additionally, Harvest Intercontinental Pamlap village fellowship building project ongoing, Matham village fellowship building project ongoing, including the Mordia Line village fellowship. These according to Pastor Marsh, were administered by himself and responsible disciples with the support of a donated motorbike given by his Bishop since 2017.
As for Tonko Limba chiefdom he said: "We were having fellowships in villages like Wonkifor, Madina township fellowship building project ongoing, Petifu village fellowship, and now Mathana village fellowship which is managing a self reliant community school to the glory of God".
"Amongst these fellowship and churches, we were unable to manage them due to the breakdown of my bike, lack of resources to and fro these places usual with my own motor bike". "Caretaker's needs were no more met due to fewer or no visitations by me, and training, mentorship, discipleship links became a problem that grew between us till the relationship of loyalty was betrayed due to other pastors or missions that used those opportunities to pe*****te these churches and villages, but thanks be to God their evidences remained even though under other denomination".

Presently, he said they are having two active churches in Magbema chiefdom Kambia township, situated at 15 Yomraya street and Matham village fellowship, in Tonko Limba chiefdom (Madina township fellowship and Mathana village fellowship.
"There are four churches in all that are presently active and evidential".
"We're hoping to spread to the other eight chiefdoms and increase our presence in other reached and hard to reach areas in the district by the grace of God. Trusting for a motorcycle again, financial empowerment to enhance these movements, together with good health and human resources, in Jesus name".

HOPE AND DESPAIR

"We are confident as a ministry by the end of 2026, we will try with the help of God through Christ, our sufficiency to complete the church and school building projects because we want evidences in every towns and villages where Harvest Intercontinental Ministries are existing in the district in Jesus name. Then we shall proceed to the next phase of evangelism and church planting in line with fulfilling our churches mission's statement: A WORLD WHERE NO ONE LIVES OR DIES WITHOUT KNOWING JESUS CHRIST AS LORD AND PERSONAL SAVIOUR
"It is possible for us as a ministry with the blessings of God's human resources and financial trust which He has bestowed on us to plant more churches than the present ones in the next five years, trusting Him on that".
"It's not the numbers, but the trustworthy church family I've found myself in".

FUND RAISING TEXT

Taking their exit from the parlor, one of the guests, the eldest clergy, projected on the screen:
"Remember whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully"
"Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9: 6-7)
THUNDEROUS APPLAUSE

While expressing his gratitude and appreciation with special twit to His Grace Bishop Laggah and other prominent personalities in the parlor, guests before taking their leave, in a standing ovation sounded a thunderous applause after these words: "I will not be able to conclude well, if I would leave out the most important thing behind my, success our success as a ministry in Kambia, thanking God Almighty through His son Jesus Christ who led me to a legendary father, a principal mentor, having placed integrity as a priority benchmark to doing successful ministry in the way of Christ. And that is no less a person than His Grace the Bishop Dr. Julius Laggah and our Able First Lady, Rev. Olayinka Laggah (thunderous applause) Bishop of the 2nd and 3rd Diocese of the Harvest Intercontinental Ministries Unlimited Sierra Leone, Ghana and Nigeria, and Senior Pastor of the Harvest Intercontinental Ministries Cathedral Dwarzak."
"Also our dynamic and 'Bengeletting, mamachious', National Overseer and Senior Pastor of the Harvest Intercontinental church, Cline Town, in the person of Apostle Dr. Abraham Felix Turay". Finally he added, "my Navigator and Paul who picked me, pointed me to Christ properly, told me despite of my shortcomings, my past and present God still loves me and that if I can just make myself available, all will be history; and that is no honourable man like Apostle Moses Macco Koroma and my spiritual Mumm Rev. Memunatu Gladys Koroma of the Harvest Intercontinental Ministries Lunsar branch".

"A special thanks to my beautiful wife, Mummy Josephine Musu Marsh, the entire Marsh family who have placed their hands ever around me, Pastors and Caretakers, able Elders, and the entire membership of the Harvest Intercontinental Ministries Kambia district".
"May the good Lord bless all your endeavors and grant you all rewards for your relentless labour of love in God's vineyard in Jesus name", opined Pastor Aki Marsh

22/04/2026

“WHAT IS AT STAKE IS BIGGEER THAN OUR PARTIES”

…. APC CHIEF NEGOTIATOR CAUTIONS CITIZENS





The Chief Negotiator of the APC, Dr. Kaifala Marah, has welcomed the conclusion of the International Moral Guarantors’ mission to Sierra Leone, describing it as a significant breakthrough in resetting the implementation of the Agreement for National Unity and the Report of the Tripartite Committee.
In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Dr.
Marah, who served as Chief Negotiator of the APC, said the outcomes of the high-level engagements between the opposition and the government represent “real progress” toward fostering peaceful coexistence, strengthening democratic accountability, and ensuring transparent and credible elections in 2028.
The intervention of the International Moral Guarantors —
comprising regional and international partners tasked with overseeing the implementation of political agreements — followed a period of heightened political tension after Sierra Leone’s 2023 general elections. Their week-long mission focused on facilitating dialogue and building consensus on key reforms outlined in both the Agreement for National Unity and the Tripartite Committee’s recommendations.
Dr. Marah emphasized that while the negotiations have yielded tangible results, the success of the process now hinges on the commitment of national institutions to fully implement the agreed reforms. He noted that Parliament is expected to enact 26 legislative amendments and 13 constitutional changes, while electoral management bodies must operationalize 27 administrative and 14 regulatory recommendations.
“These are the tasks. These are the people’s demands,” he stated, underscoring the need for “enduring, thorough, and effective follow-through” from all stakeholders involved.
The former Finance Minister further called on both the APC and the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) to maintain constructive engagement in the interest of national stability and democratic consolidation. According to him, cooperation
between political actors is essential to sustaining the momentum generated by the guarantors’ intervention.
Addressing party supporters, Dr. Marah urged restraint and a shift in focus away from partisan divisions. “What is at stake is bigger than our parties,” he said, cautioning that “brazen argument serves no purpose.” Instead, he encouraged citizens, political supporters, and civil society organizations to channel their energy into monitoring progress, supporting reform processes, and holding implementing institutions accountable.
He also stressed that the recent developments should not be interpreted as a political victory or defeat for either side, but rather as a collective national achievement. “This week has not been a win or a loss for the APC or the government. It is a gigantic leap in our nation’s democratic transformation,” he declared.
Dr. Marah joined the APC leadership in expressing appreciation to the party’s negotiating team, the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), and both local and international Moral Guarantors for what he described as “grueling but essential conversations” that helped revive the reform agenda.
Political analysts say the renewed commitment to implementing the Tripartite Committee’s recommendations could mark a turning point in Sierra Leone’s democratic trajectory, particularly if the proposed legal and institutional reforms are executed in a timely and transparent manner.
As Sierra Leone looks ahead to the 2028 elections, the spotlight now shifts to Parliament, electoral bodies, and political actors to translate commitments into concrete action, ensuring that the aspirations outlined in the unity agreement deliver meaningful and lasting democratic gains for the country.

22/04/2026

Frontpage Stories

20/04/2026

Catholic Church Reaffirms Neutrality in Politics and Upholds Institutional Identity in Schools

The Archdiocese of Freetown has reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s long-standing commitment to political neutrality, stressing that it does not endorse or support any political candidate, irrespective of their religious affiliation.
According to the Communications Unit, it is neither the policy of the Catholic Church in Sierra Leone nor of the universal Church to declare in favour of any individual seeking political office. This principle stance reflects the Church’s mission to promote unity, moral responsibility, and the common good, rather than partisan interests.
The clarification comes in response to public interpretations of a recent incident involving a Catholic Church choir, which some have misconstrued as an official endorsement of a political figure. The Archdiocese has firmly dismissed such claims as inaccurate and misleading.
“The action of a single group within the Church does not constitute or represent the official position of the Catholic Church,” the statement noted. “The Church remains steadfast in its non-partisan position and will not deviate from this commitment.”
In addition, the Archdiocese addressed concerns relating to dress code practices within Catholic schools, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the Church’s identity and traditions. It clarifies that the Catholic Church has not approved the adoption of dress codes associated with other religions as part of the official uniform in its institutions.
This issue has arisen in the context of discussions surrounding the 160th anniversary of St Joseph’s Secondary School, Brookfields. The Archbishop, together with his advisers, has advised the St Joseph’s Ex-Pupils Association to adhere strictly to their constitution, where provisions regarding ceremonial dress and institutional standards are clearly outlined.
The Archdiocese underscored that fidelity to established norms and governing frameworks is essential, particularly during significant celebrations. It called on all stakeholders to act responsibly, respect institutional identity, and work towards unity within the school community.
This statement serves as a clear reminder of the Catholic Church’s unwavering position on political neutrality and its dedication to preserving its values and identity in all its institutions.

20/04/2026

1xBet Tournament Kicks Off Salone’s 65th Independence Celebration
By Betty Kamara
In celebration of Sierra Leone’s 65th Independence Anniversary, leading
betting company 1xBet, in partnership with other stakeholders, has launched an exciting grassroots football tournament aimed at empowering young people and promoting unity across communities.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Marketing Director of 1xBet Sierra Leone, Mr. Abdul Karim Koroma, emphasized that the company’s mission goes beyond betting. He noted that 1xBet is deeply committed to giving back to society and supporting youth development initiatives.
“We are not only into betting; we believe in empowering society and investing in our young people. This tournament is one of the ways we aim to uplift young minds and create opportunities for talent to thrive,” he said.
The competition features eight local football clubs drawn from different communities, all vying for a grand prize of Le10,000. The tournament officially kicked off on April 15 at the Approved School Field, attracting an enthusiastic crowd of supporters and football lovers.
The opening match between Rokupa Community and Moeba Community set a high standard for the tournament. In an impressive display of skill and teamwork, Rokupa Community secured a dominant 5–1 victory over their opponents, earning a place in the next stage of the competition.
Star striker Musa Noah Kamara, popularly known as Musa Tombo, delivered a standout performance during the match. He scored two goals in less than twenty minutes in the second half, earning the Man of the Match award along with a cash prize of Le1,000.
The tournament will continue in the coming days, building momentum toward the grand finale scheduled for April 27. The winning team will walk away with the coveted Le10,000 prize, along with community pride and recognition.
Supporters and community members have praised the initiative, describing it as a timely effort to celebrate independence while fostering unity, sportsmanship, and youth engagement across Sierra Leone.

20/04/2026

The Snail Pace of the Tripartite Agreement & Its Implications
… Dr. Alex Bangura Laments


As a geopolitical analyst, Dr. Alex Bangura has expressed serious concerns over the slow pace of implementing the Tripartite Agreement, a process he describes as crucial to Sierra Leone’s democratic future.
The agreement, which promotes peace, dialogue, electoral reforms, and stronger democratic governance, is widely seen as a pathway to ensuring credible elections and restoring public trust in the country’s political system.
Dr. Bangura explained that the Tripartite Agreement also known as the Agreement for National Unity was established between the Government and the Opposition, with the support of international partners, to resolve the post-election tensions following the June 2023 elections.
A key outcome of the Tripartite Committee is the development of approximately eighty reform recommendations. These include improving result management, enhancing transparency in electoral processes, publishing electoral calendars, strengthening voter education, and making electoral data more accessible to the public.

Despite these promising provisions, Dr. Bangura lamented that the implementation process has been significantly slowed by delays, mistrust among stakeholders, weak enforcement mechanisms, and a lack of transparency. According to him, these challenges pose serious risks to the stability of Sierra Leone’s already fragile democratic system.
He further warned that the politicization of these reforms could lead to another disputed election, potentially reigniting tensions across the country.
Dr. Bangura therefore called on President Julius Maada Bio to ensure the full and timely implementation of all agreed reforms. He emphasized that doing so would strengthen democratic institutions, address long-standing governance challenges, and enhance Sierra Leone’s credibility within the international community.
He noted that it must also include creditable data and vital information, in accordance with the agreement for national unity, and the tripartite recommendations; thus detailing, Result Reconciliation Forms (RRFs), and disaggregated data.
The eighty (80) recommendations are said to be laid in parliament, in a bid to be legislated.
“All democracies are fragile, therefore the need to create and maintain peace is of greatest importance,” Dr. Alex Bangura said.

20/04/2026

“WE DISCUSS MUTUAL DESIRE FOR SWIFT RESOLUTION”
…VICE PRESIDENT TELLS APC COUNCIL LEADERS


Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh on Wednesday met with mayors and district chairpersons from APC-led councils and municipalities, calling for calm, cooperation, and a renewed focus on citizens.

The meeting held under his leadership as Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Decentralization and Local Governance, brought together local leaders at a time when councils are facing operational challenges linked to the ongoing political impasse.
“We discussed our mutual desire for a swift resolution to the current political impasse,” the Vice President said. He added, “We want to ensure the councils are able to function and provide services.”
Vice President Juldeh Jalloh also stressed the importance of continued dialogue, “There is strong commitment to continuing these engagements.”

He encouraged all stakeholders to use the committee as a platform for problem-solving. “The IMC has a distinct role in facilitating dialogue and joint solutions,” he said.
He ended with a reminder of the responsibility of leadership. “We must always remember that we are in service to our citizens,” he said. The meeting closed with a shared understanding that collaboration, not division, is key to advancing local development and improving lives across Sierra Leone.