By: Saidu Jalloh
The European Union (EU) has approved €13.5 million (approximately Le351 billion) in budget support for Sierra Leone under the EU Nature Nourishes Programme, the Government of Sierra Leone announced on Wednesday.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, the approval reflects the EU’s confidence in the reform agenda of President Julius Maada Bio’s government, particularly in strengthening public policy, ensuring macroeconomic stability, improving public financial management, and expanding domestic resource mobilization.
The government said the disbursement follows the successful implementation of agreed reform triggers by various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, coordinated by the Ministry of Finance. The reforms were assessed and met EU standards within the agreed timelines.
The budget support is expected to advance several national priorities, including improving the quality of education and expanding home-grown school feeding programmes. Boosting rice production and food security. Accelerating the decentralisation of public services. Strengthening efforts to curb deforestation and enhance climate resilience.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to deepening reforms, improving data and monitoring systems in the education sector, and accelerating environmental protection measures, particularly in the Western Area Peninsula National Park.
Sierra Leone expressed appreciation to the European Union for its continued partnership, noting that the support will contribute to sustainable development and improved livelihoods across the country.