Ambrose James, Development Secretary
Donor support for Sierra Leone has declined sharply over the past decade, prompting the government to shift its foreign policy focus toward attracting private sector investment.
Development Secretary Ambrose James revealed that instead of relying solely on aid, Sierra Leone is partnering with development organizations to boost private investment through projects such as the Mineral Wealth Fund, Agricultural Technology in Kono, and Climate Finance Technology.
Despite the decline, donors still commit approximately $650 million annually, with a disbursement rate between 65% and 70%. Key contributions for 2024 include $41 million from the UK, $16 million from Germany, $480 million from the United States through the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), $13 million from Ireland, and $190 million from the World Bank.
Meanwhile, Minister of Planning and Economic Development Kenyeh Barlay reported strong progress in implementing Sierra Leone’s Big Five Agenda.
She confirmed that 137 targets and over 300 policy actions have been reviewed, with significant advances in Feed Salone, health, fisheries, and social protection.
Other sectors such as education, child affairs, and youth employment were rated as satisfactory.
The full progress report will soon be published on the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s website.
By Ishmail Saidu Kanu
