By Saidu Jalloh
The Deputy Minister of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), Hon. Rev. Dr. Jonathan Titus-Williams, advocated for financing the government’s development plan (MTNDP 2024-2030), emphasizing the importance of building upon the strides made towards gender equality.
Speaking at the ongoing UN Women’s Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) 2024 meeting in New York, Dr. Titus-Williams addressed the funding challenges anticipated in implementing the New Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024-2030) and outlined the Government of Sierra Leone’s (GoSL) strategy to expedite the achievement of National Goals by 2030.
Responding to a panel question regarding funding challenges in light of previous experiences, Dr. Titus-Williams acknowledged the constraints faced during the implementation of past development plans, exacerbated by global crises since 2020. He highlighted the significant increase in SDG investment requirements, emphasizing the need for robust partnerships between the government, private sector, and international collaborators to surmount financial hurdles.
With an estimated financing gap of US$2.56 billion over seven years, Dr. Titus-Williams outlined a multifaceted approach to secure funding for the new development plan. This includes exploring innovative financing mechanisms, enhancing public financial management systems, and intensifying efforts to combat corruption and illicit financial flows.
Additionally, strategies such as rebranding Sierra Leone as an investment destination, leveraging the blue economy, accessing climate finance, and supporting regional trade agreements will be pursued to attract foreign investments and fill the financing gap.
Expressing commitment on behalf of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and the people of Sierra Leone, Dr. Titus-Williams assured development partners of increased prudence in resource management.
The positive response to his statement underscored a deeper understanding of the government’s strategic priorities, particularly the Big Five Game Changers, with a focus on financing, partnerships, and risk management.
Dr. Titus-Williams concluded by emphasizing the mainstreaming of gender in the Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024-2030). The panel discussion, featuring esteemed officials and stakeholders, provided insights into the government’s commitment to sustainable development and gender equality, garnering appreciation from attendees.
