By: Aminata Sesay
The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) has intensified efforts to strengthen evidence-based policymaking in Sierra Leone through an advanced capacity-building programme aimed at enhancing the ability of government officials to translate research and data into practical development decisions.
The second phase of the programme, organized by MoPED’s Planning, Policy and Research Department (PPRD), focuses on equipping Planning Officers, Senior Planning Officers, Policy Analysts, Monitoring and Evaluation Officers, Programme Managers, and Research Officers with advanced skills in policy writing and evidence synthesis.
Held under the theme “Turning Evidence into Decisions,” the training seeks to address a critical gap in public sector planning by ensuring that available data, research findings, and evaluations are effectively translated into policies and programmes aligned with national development priorities.
MoPED officials emphasized that quality decision-making requires not only access to information but also the capacity to analyze evidence and present it in formats that support timely government action.
Unlike the first phase, which focused on strengthening participants’ technical competencies in data management, statistical analysis, Excel, artificial intelligence (AI), and STATA, the second phase concentrates on transforming analytical findings into decision-ready documents. These include policy briefs, concept notes, project proposals, and policy papers.
The training features practical drafting sessions, peer reviews, writing clinics, and guidance on the responsible use of AI-assisted tools to help participants produce clearer and more impactful policy documents.
Participants are expected to apply these skills within their respective institutions to improve planning processes, strengthen programme implementation, and support more efficient allocation of public resources.
The initiative forms part of MoPED’s broader strategy to build a stronger culture of evidence-based decision-making across government, ensuring that national development interventions are guided by reliable data and research.
As Sierra Leone continues to pursue sustainable development goals, the ministry believes that strengthening the capacity of technical officers will play a key role in bridging the gap between evidence generation and policy action.