For this year’s Independence Celebrations, the Government of Sierra Leone did not hold the usual National Insignia Awards Ceremony in honor of outstanding individuals in the country. 

The awards ceremony, which is typically held at State House on April 27th to commemorate Sierra Leone’s independence from British colonial rule, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the country in various fields, including education, health, culture, and sports.

Earlier, the Minister of Information and Communications, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, confirmed to the press that Sierra Leone would not hold the National Insignia Awards ceremony for this year’s independence celebrations.

“The Minister of Information and Communications, Mohamed Rahman Swaray has confirmed that the usual National Insignia Awards hosted by the President at State House on April 27th to mark the independence celebrations will not be held this year,” Popular Journalist, Amadu Lamaran Bah reported.

Minister Swaray however did not cite reasons for canceling the ceremony.

The cancellation of the National Insignia Awards ceremony comes as a disappointment to many Sierra Leoneans who look forward to the event each year.

The national insignia and award is the finest and highest form of recognition and appreciation of a citizen by the state, for services rendered to the nation or mankind in a particular field over time or at a particular time. This is provided for in Sierra Leone’s national constitution which confers the powers upon His Excellency the President to give honour and tittles to citizens. The national award acts from parliament further establish the rules, regulations and procedures of these honours and awards.

The award was established in 1972 by President Siaka Stevens, and ranks below the Orders of the Republic and the Rokel. It is awarded in gold and silver classes.