Newly appointed Country Manager of the African Development Bank (AfDB) in Sierra Leone, Dr. Ado Mensah, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Finance, Hon. Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, at his office in the Treasury Building on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to formally present his credentials.
Minister Bangura warmly welcomed Dr. Mensah and, on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio, expressed appreciation for the Bank’s growing support to Sierra Leone. He described the relationship between the Government and the African Development Bank as strong and mutually beneficial, noting that the country looks forward to deeper engagement that will positively impact the lives of its citizens.
During the meeting, the Minister highlighted the Government’s ongoing implementation of sound economic policies, which he said have placed the economy on a path toward sustainability. He noted that inflation has remained in single digits since April 2025, the exchange rate has stabilized, and domestic treasury bill rates have declined to more sustainable levels.
Minister Bangura also informed Dr. Mensah that President Bio has extended an invitation to the President of the African Development Bank Group to visit Sierra Leone.
He further pointed out that rising global uncertainties are likely to adversely affect developing economies and urged the Bank to continue supporting Sierra Leone during this period. The Minister explained that the Government is implementing measures to ensure the availability of petroleum products, agricultural inputs, and other essential commodities.
Additionally, he disclosed that a formal request would be submitted to the Bank to seek support in cushioning the potential economic impact of the ongoing US–Israel–Iran conflict.
In his response, Dr. Mensah congratulated the Minister on the country’s improved macroeconomic performance and reaffirmed the African Development Bank’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development agenda. He outlined his key priorities, including strengthening policy dialogue, improving portfolio performance, accelerating project implementation, and enhancing macroeconomic support through analytical studies.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Financial Secretary, Mr. Matthew Dingie, welcomed Dr. Mensah and commended the Bank for its continued support across various sectors. He pledged to work closely with the new Country Manager to improve disbursement rates and strengthen project execution.
Other officials in attendance included the Principal Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr. Samuel E.B. Momoh; the Deputy Financial Secretary for the Multilateral Projects Division, Mr. Morie Momoh; and the Technical Adviser to the Minister, Dr. Franklin Sisaba Bendu.