Inflation Skyrockets, Families Struggle to Cope
By Ishmail Saidu Kanu
Sierra Leone’s latest Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) scorecard for Fiscal Year 2026 paints a mixed picture; steady governance improvements amid ongoing economic and structural challenges.
According to the report, the country’s population stands at 8.6 million, with a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $840, keeping it within the lower-income category.
While Sierra Leone passed key indicators on control of corruption, personal freedom, and government accountability, it failed to pass the overall scorecard, indicating areas that still need reform.
On governance, Sierra Leone recorded strong marks in freedom of information (95%), rule of law (60%), and control of corruption (71%), reflecting sustained progress in transparency and anti-graft measures.
Women’s participation in the economy also remained robust at 95%, reinforcing the country’s commitment to gender inclusion.
However, the economy continues to face headwinds. Inflation rose to 28.4%, ranking the country among the lowest 12% globally, while access to credit (11%) and property rights (40%) remain weak. Sectors such as trade policy (50%) and market competitiveness (30%) show only modest improvements.
In human development, Sierra Leone achieved impressive outcomes in girls’ primary education completion (97%), though health indicators such as child health (18%) and chronic disease management (42%) remain below median global standards.
Analysts say the results point out Sierra Leone’s ongoing struggle to translate governance reforms into broad-based economic growth.
Still, the consistent performance in democracy, transparency, and gender empowerment positions the country favorably for future MCC eligibility; provided economic stability improves.
In short, Sierra Leone’s FY26 report shows a country progressing in accountability and inclusion but still battling to balance good governance with sustainable economic freedom.
Created by the U.S. Congress in January 2004 with strong bipartisan support, MCC partners with the world’s poorest countries that are committed to just and democratic governance, economic freedom and investing in their populations.
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