By: Aminata Sesay
The Government of Sierra Leone has issued a stark warning regarding the shifting dynamics of global development financing, urging International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs) to reassess their funding models, deepen local partnerships, and prepare for a future with reduced donor dependency.
This message was delivered during a high-level meeting hosted by the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) on Wednesday at its Tower Hill headquarters. Addressing dozens of INGO Country Directors and key stakeholders, Development Secretary Mr. Ambrose James painted a sobering picture: international aid is declining, and the recent exits of organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and International Medical Corps (IMC) are just the beginning.
“Global development finance is changing. The era of abundant overseas development assistance is over,” Mr. James warned. “We must innovate, diversify funding, and strengthen collaboration with the private sector, foundations, and individuals if we are to sustain the gains we’ve made.”
This marks a significant shift in Sierra Leone’s development strategy—from reliance on foreign aid to more sustainable, locally-driven approaches. Mr. James highlighted the planned scaling-up of District Development Coordination Committees (DDCCs) and new chiefdom-level structures as key to this transition, describing them as “cost-effective platforms for accountability and local ownership.”
The Ministry emphasized that decentralizing development efforts is no longer optional it is essential. These local structures, Mr. James noted, are now prioritized in government budgets and will play a central role in monitoring the implementation of the new Digital National Development Plan and its five transformative priorities, or “game changers.”
MoPED’s call to action comes amid significant progress, as outlined by the Hon. Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Kenyek Barlay. She praised NGOs for exceeding several national development targets in 2024, particularly in agriculture and fisheries, under the Feed Salone initiative. However, she also pointed out persistent gaps in areas such as disability inclusion, nutrition data coordination, and youth employment.
While celebrating the achievements, both Minister Barlay and Secretary James emphasized the need for deeper, more targeted collaboration—especially at the grassroots level. They cautioned against fragmented efforts and duplication of services, urging INGOs to better align their work with government priorities and structures.
“Sierra Leone’s development must be anchored at the district, chiefdom, and village levels,” said Mr. James. “That’s where real accountability and sustainable impact will be achieved.”
The message is clear: Sierra Leone is entering a new era of development—one that requires innovation, local leadership, and strategic partnerships beyond traditional donor funding. With international aid flows under threat, INGOs are being challenged not only to do more but to do it differently.