By: Precious Miracle Kargbo (Snr)
His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio has held a high-level meeting with Elsiddig Mohamed Elobaid Rahma, Executive Director of the African Development Bank (AfDB), at State House, to discuss Sierra Leone’s economic progress and ongoing development cooperation.
The meeting focused on the significant strides made in stabilising and strengthening the country’s economy, which both sides described as a pivotal phase in Sierra Leone’s development trajectory.
President Bio expressed appreciation for the AfDB’s continued support, noting that the Bank’s confidence in his administration has been instrumental in the implementation of key economic reforms.
“We have made substantial progress, but there is still much work to be done,” President Bio said. “I appreciate the AfDB’s partnership in our efforts to build a resilient and inclusive economy.”
The engagement provided an opportunity to review ongoing AfDB-funded projects and explore new areas of collaboration. Discussions centred on the government’s ‘Big Five Game Changers’ agenda a strategic framework designed to transform critical sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, education, health, and the digital economy.
President Bio emphasised that these sectors are essential for driving sustainable economic growth and improving the living standards of all Sierra Leoneans.
Mr. Rahma commended the government’s reform efforts and underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between international development partners and national authorities.
He reaffirmed the AfDB’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development agenda, particularly as the country works toward greater economic stability, self-reliance, and prosperity.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their shared vision for a stronger and more effective partnership.
The engagement reflects a mutual commitment to enhancing economic stability and promoting sustainable development in Sierra Leone, while laying the groundwork for deeper cooperation to advance the nation’s strategic objectives.
Observers say the strengthened partnership with the AfDB remains a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s aspirations for long-term growth and resilience in an increasingly challenging global economic environment.