Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, has engaged UN officials to address the impact of dwindling global fiscal resources on the country’s development agenda. In a high-level meeting with UN Resident Coordinator Seraphine Wakana and heads of UN agencies, discussions centered on maintaining key projects amid financial constraints.
Dr. Sengeh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to critical initiatives, including the “Feed Salone” program, electricity expansion, road infrastructure, and other capital projects. He highlighted efforts in innovative financing and economic growth metrics to sustain development.
UN Resident Coordinator Wakana acknowledged the contributions of key international donors such as USAID, the European Union, and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. However, she warned that declining aid could jeopardize essential programs in health, education, agriculture, and social protection.
Fredrick Hans Ampiah, UNDP Resident Representative, praised Sierra Leone’s financial management and urged stronger domestic revenue mobilization amid the challenging economic landscape.
In response to fiscal constraints, UN officials proposed measures to enhance financial stability:
- Boosting Domestic Revenue: Strengthening tax compliance, leveraging digital technology, and promoting private sector engagement.
- Optimizing Development Financing: Reducing non-essential expenditures and maximizing government resources.
- Enhancing Coordination Among MDAs: Preventing duplication of efforts and ensuring strategic participation in international engagements.
- Cutting Procurement Costs: Minimizing spending on visibility materials and workshops.
The UN also emphasized the significance of Sierra Leone’s role in the upcoming UN International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville, Spain, in June 2025.
Dr. Sengeh expressed gratitude for the UN’s continued support and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to strategic financial reforms. He stressed the need for resilient economic policies to sustain development despite global financial uncertainties.
