By: Aminata Sesay
Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to democratic governance, regional cooperation, and climate resilience during the First Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament currently underway in Abuja, Nigeria.
Presenting Sierra Leone’s country report before the regional parliament, Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina, Deputy Leader of Government Business II, highlighted key national developments recorded between November 2025 and April 2026 in areas such as governance, justice sector reform, environmental sustainability, and regional integration.
Speaking during the plenary session presided over by Hadja Memounatou Ibrahima, Hon. Lamina stated that Sierra Leone remains committed to upholding democratic principles, peacebuilding efforts, and sustainable development across the sub-region.
The report noted that Sierra Leone’s political environment continues to support inclusive governance and political pluralism, particularly following the National Unity Agreement signed between the Government and the opposition APC Party. It also highlighted ongoing constitutional and electoral reforms aimed at improving transparency and strengthening democratic participation ahead of the 2028 general elections.
On justice and governance, the delegation pointed to the implementation of the Justice Sector Reform Strategy (2024–2030) and the enforcement of the Criminal Procedure Act 2024 as significant milestones in strengthening the rule of law. The work of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion and the Inter-Religious Council in promoting dialogue and preventing political tensions was also acknowledged.
The presentation further underscored progress in human rights protection, including improved access to justice, expanded press freedom, enforcement of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024, and intensified efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence.
Addressing climate and environmental concerns, Hon. Lamina described climate change as one of the most pressing challenges facing Sierra Leone despite the country’s relatively low carbon emissions. He noted that the Government’s “Feed Salone” Initiative continues to strengthen food security through mechanized farming, increased private sector participation, and import substitution policies.
The report also highlighted measures aimed at improving disaster preparedness, expanding access to renewable energy, protecting the environment, and promoting sustainable mining practices as part of Sierra Leone’s broader climate adaptation agenda.
On regional integration, Sierra Leone informed the parliament that it remains fully compliant with the ECOWAS Community Levy and continues to advance regional development projects, including the completion of the ECOWAS Logistics Depot in Lungi and ongoing construction work on the Wai Border Market in Pujehun District.
The delegation further reported the successful implementation of the ECOWAS Free Roaming Regulation with Liberia, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire, and The Gambia a move expected to reduce communication costs and strengthen regional connectivity among member states.
In closing, Sierra Leone reaffirmed its continued support for ECOWAS initiatives aimed at promoting democracy, peace, security, and economic cooperation across West Africa.