By: Saidu Jalloh
The Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Kenyeh Barlay, announced an important update regarding Sierra Leone’s National Development Plan during a Government Press Conference held on January 16, 2024, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Conference Room on Tower Hill in Freetown. The plan, traditionally operating on a 5-year cycle, has been extended to a 7-year plan, covering the period from January 2024 to December 2030.
Minister Barlay emphasized that the National Development Plan aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and highlighted the inclusive nature of the planning process, which involved consultations with over 8,000 citizens nationwide. The plan is crafted based on the People’s Aspirations and guided by the five key priorities of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio.
Addressing any misconceptions, Minister Barlay clarified that the Feed Salone Project, focused on agriculture, is not a political maneuver but a strategic initiative aimed at expediting economic development. Given that agriculture constitutes 50% of the country’s GDP, the project is designed to enhance this sector. The core enablers of the National Development Plan, as outlined by the minister, include economic diversification, governance, climate resilience, gender mainstream financing, implementation, and resource mobilization.
Hon. Musa Fofanah, Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Local Governance and former Chair of the Economic Development Planning Committee in Parliament, spoke on the achievements in Health, Education, Energy, and Mining sectors. Notable accomplishments include reductions in maternal mortality rates, increased energy generation, and successful reforms in the mining sector.
Andrew Lavali, Executive Director of the Institute of Governance Reform (IGR), urged citizens to embrace and align themselves with the National Development Plan to achieve their dreams and aspirations. He emphasized the importance of collective effort and ownership of the plan for the benefit of all. Lavali cited IGR’s Biometer report on President Bio’s promises from the previous year, revealing that 79% of the promises were either partially achieved or fully realized.
The National Development Plan is scheduled for public release by January 30, 2024, providing citizens with insight into the Government’s vision and strategies for the nation’s development.