In a pivotal gathering convened at the Sierra Palms Resort, Deputy Minister Rev. Dr. Jonathan Titus-Williams of Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Planning and Economic Development emphasized the crucial need for coordinated efforts and sustainability in shaping the future trajectory of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Country Strategy for 2025-2030.
In his remarks, the head of IOM, Mr. Christos Christosdoulides, recognized the government support, affirming the organization’s commitment to synchronizing efforts with Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan. He emphasized IOM’s dedication to promoting international cooperation on migration issues and providing essential humanitarian assistance to migrants, refugees, and internally displaced persons, all while prioritizing safety, dignity, accountability, and sustainability.
United Nations Resident Coordinator, Madam Seraphine Wakana, lauded IOM’s steadfast commitment to migration management and governance, emphasizing the significance of aligning efforts with the New Medium Term National Development Plan 2024-2030, global frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Global Compact on Migration.
Hon. Orman Bangura, Minister of Youth Affairs, commended IOM for its strategic partnership and emphasized the alignment of IOM’s priorities with Sierra Leone’s development agenda. He underscored the importance of harnessing the potential of youth, particularly in rural areas, to address migration challenges and foster inclusive growth.
Dr. Titus-Williams extended a warm welcome to IOM Sierra Leone and esteemed partners gathered to deliberate on strategic national issues vital for shaping the forthcoming IOM Country Strategy. Against the backdrop of Sierra Leone’s recently launched Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) 2024-2030, he underscored the imperative of aligning development interventions with national aspirations.
He highlighted the timeliness of the strategic reflection amid Sierra Leone’s renewed development mandate under President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership. He elaborated on the government’s “Big Five Game Changers,” focusing on agricultural productivity, human capital development, youth empowerment, technology and infrastructure, and public service revitalization, all pivotal areas driving the nation towards inclusive and sustainable development.
Dr. Titus-Williams articulated the pivotal role of the new MTNDP 2024-2030 in guiding the formulation of the forthcoming IOM Country Strategy. He highlighted the synergies between Sierra Leone’s development priorities and IOM’s operational areas, emphasizing the need for frank discussions to enrich the strategy and ensure effective implementation.
In closing, he expressed gratitude to IOM for its enduring support and officially inaugurated the Strategic Moment of Reflection, marking a significant step towards fostering sustainable development and migration management in Sierra Leone.
The event stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts driving Sierra Leone’s journey towards inclusive growth and resilience, guided by strategic foresight and collective action
The event featured presentations on the outline of the IOM Sierra Leone Country Strategy, migration in Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term Development Plan, IOM’s global priorities, the UN Common Country Analysis, and the Global Compact on Migration. Group sessions delved into current migration challenges in Sierra Leone, fostering comprehensive dialogue and insights crucial for shaping future strategies.
The meeting also featured prominent leaders, including Major General (Rtd) David TO Taluva, the Minister of Internal Affairs, and Hon. Melrose Karminty, the Minister of Social Welfare, alongside other key partners and stakeholders.
