In a resounding call for transformative action, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone delivered a stirring address at the International Development Association for Africa Heads of State Summit (IDA21) in Nairobi, Kenya, on April 29th, 2024. President Bio emphasized the urgent need for a departure from business-as-usual approaches, asserting that Africa’s development demands a bolder vision to navigate turbulent global dynamics and achieve sustainable growth and prosperity.
Highlighting the critical role of infrastructure in Africa’s development trajectory, President Bio underscored the necessity of addressing the continent’s substantial infrastructure deficit. He stressed that increased funding from the IDA is paramount to unlock Africa’s potential, particularly in energy and technological innovation, fostering economic growth and sustainable development.
President Bio articulated Sierra Leone’s commitment to people-centered development through initiatives such as the country’s Mid Development Plan and his five key priorities: Feed Salone, Human Capital Development, Youth Employment, Revamping Public Services, and Tech and infrastructure.
Moreover, President Bio called for a renewal of IDA’s commitment to responsive and innovative financing mechanisms, advocating for measurable debt financing to align with Africa’s development goals. He emphasized that good governance, transparency, and accountability are indispensable cornerstones for building resilient institutions conducive to investment, innovation, and economic growth.
Endorsing the “Nairobi IDA Communiqué,” President Bio expressed Sierra Leone’s unwavering support for a mega 21st IDA Replenishment. He affirmed that the Communiqué reflects their vision to ensure the prosperity of Africans and align with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to eradicate poverty, protect the planet, and foster peace and prosperity by 2030.
President Bio’s optimism resonated as he presented the IDA Nairobi Communiqué, foreseeing the provision of additional resources to bolster Africa’s vision for a climate-smart, resilient, and integrated continent.
