Sierra Leone Advances National Development, Planning Legislation and Infrastructure Agreements

By: Aminata Sesay

On Monday, August 11, 2025, Sierra Leone’s Parliament took a major step towards enhancing national development with the enactment of the National Country Planning Act, 2025. Introduced by Dr. Tuard Senesie, Minister of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning, the new law provides a comprehensive legislative framework aimed at reshaping the country’s planning and development sector.

The National Country Planning Act is designed to foster sustainable national growth by integrating key principles such as climate change adaptation, disaster resilience, and environmental sustainability into the country’s planning process. The Act also emphasizes the importance of public participation, transparent governance, and the regular monitoring and evaluation of planning policies. By aligning Sierra Leone’s development goals with international standards on human rights, sustainable development, and climate action, the legislation seeks to improve infrastructure, housing, and access to essential services for both urban and rural communities.

In addition to this legislative milestone, Parliament also reviewed several high-impact agreements and regulatory frameworks focused on critical infrastructure development:

A Concession Agreement was presented to Parliament, involving the Ministry of Works and Public Assets (MOWPA), the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), and Société Djura Maritel Construction (SDMCO) Ltd and its partners. This agreement covers the design, reconstruction, tolling, and operation of the Mano Junction–Tongo–Bumpeh road under a Design, Finance, Build, Operate, and Transfer (DFBOT) model. This Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework is expected to attract private sector investment into national infrastructure projects.

In conjunction with the concession agreement, a stakeholder engagement report was presented by the SLRA’s Safeguard Specialist. Dated August 4, 2025, the report outlines community consultations and impact assessments related to the PPP road project.

The Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (SLEWRC) presented the Mini-Grid Regulations 2025, designed to expand access to reliable and sustainable energy through decentralized energy systems.

Parliament also reviewed the Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission Act, 2025 (Act No. 13 of 2025). This new Act aims to enhance institutional oversight and regulatory capacity in the energy and water sectors, ensuring more efficient and accountable service delivery.

These legislative and infrastructural developments are crucial steps in Sierra Leone’s long-term vision for sustainable development, improved public services, and economic resilience. By improving planning laws and fostering strategic partnerships in infrastructure, the government aims to build a more prosperous future for the nation.