The week-long sensitization campaign, led by the ECOWAS National Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, the Ministry of Trade and Industry, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, has drawn to a successful close, marking a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s development journey.
The Deputy Planning Minister, along with the ECOWAS National Office team, traversed through Kambia, Pujehun, and Kailahun districts, engaging key stakeholders in insightful discussions about ECOWAS-supported projects and development initiatives aimed at bolstering regional integration and economic growth.
In a heartfelt address to the residents of Jendema in Pujehun District, the Deputy Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Rev. Dr. Jonathan Titus-Williams, commended the unwavering support and enthusiasm displayed by the community towards recognizing and fostering the developmental strides facilitated by the ECOWAS commission in Sierra Leone. He underscored the significance of enhancing the visibility of ECOWAS programs at the national level, stressing the importance of regional cooperation for sustainable development.
Mr. Komba Momoh, Deputy Development Secretary and Head of the ECOWAS National Office, reiterated ECOWAS’s commitment to promoting economic cooperation and integration among member states. He elucidated on the array of development interventions already underway in Sierra Leone, ranging from infrastructure projects like the ECOWAS Logistics Depot at Lungi to initiatives supporting education, healthcare, agriculture, and gender equality.
Echoing Mr. Momoh’s sentiments, Harry Mahoi from the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs shed light on ECOWAS scholarships empowering young women across the nation, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to gender equality and women’s empowerment. He also highlighted the commendable efforts in supporting women’s health through the Fistula program.
Jim B. Kosseh, representing the Ministry of Trade and Industry, elucidated on Sierra Leone’s commitment to regional trade protocols and treaties, particularly the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), aimed at fostering a conducive environment for free trade and economic prosperity.
Throughout the campaign, stakeholders including district officers and paramount chiefs from Kambia, Kailahun, and Pujehun districts voiced their unwavering support for ECOWAS initiatives, expressing gratitude to the government and MoPED for their facilitative roles.
As the curtains drew on the sensitization campaign, Madam Laygbay Lillian Amadu, Deputy Secretary and ECOWAS Desk Officer in the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, extended heartfelt appreciation to residents for their steadfast commitment towards the successful implementation of ECOWAS-sponsored development programs.
The conclusion of the sensitization campaign marks not just the end of a week-long endeavor but the dawn of a new chapter in Sierra Leone’s development narrative, characterized by collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared vision for a brighter future under the auspices of ECOWAS.
