By: Precious Miracle Kargbo Snr
His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has conferred Sierra Leone’s highest national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Republic (GCOR), on outgoing World Bank Country Manager Dr. Abdu Muwonge in recognition of his distinguished service and contribution to the country’s development.
The investiture ceremony, held on Monday at State House, marked the end of Dr. Muwonge’s tenure as World Bank Country Manager for Sierra Leone and celebrated his role in strengthening cooperation between the Government of Sierra Leone and the World Bank in support of national development priorities.
Presenting the citation, Presidential Press Secretary Yusuf Keketoma Sandi, Esq., said the honour was awarded in appreciation of Dr. Muwonge’s dedication, leadership and contribution to Sierra Leone’s development journey. He noted that, pursuant to Section 40(4)(f) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991, the President is empowered to confer national honours on individuals whose service deserves national recognition.
In his remarks, Dr. Muwonge expressed gratitude to President Bio and the people of Sierra Leone for the recognition, describing the honour as a privilege he deeply appreciates.
“Let me express my sincere appreciation to His Excellency, the President, and the people of Sierra Leone for honouring my service to this nation. I do not take this recognition for granted,” he said.
Reflecting on his tenure, Dr. Muwonge commended the strong collaboration between the World Bank and government institutions, noting that the partnership contributed to the implementation of several development programmes across the country.
He praised President Bio’s leadership, particularly the Government’s investments in infrastructure development and initiatives aimed at empowering women and improving the lives of citizens.
“Your Excellency, working with your administration has been very successful. Each time I joined you in the field to commission development projects, I saw first-hand how passionate you are about your people and your commitment to delivering good services to them,” Dr. Muwonge stated.
He added that his experience in Sierra Leone had created a lasting connection with the country.
“I cannot say goodbye because Sierra Leone will always be home to me, and it will remain very close to my heart,” he said.
Responding to the remarks, President Bio described Dr. Muwonge as a trusted development partner whose leadership combined strategic vision with a deep understanding of Sierra Leone’s priorities.
“Your ability to listen is what has inspired me the most. You have contributed greatly to our strong partnership with the World Bank. You have been a trusted partner and a sincere advocate for Sierra Leone’s development,” President Bio said.
The President noted that Sierra Leone’s relationship with the World Bank has grown beyond individual projects into a broader partnership built around shared development objectives and a common vision for national progress.
He expressed appreciation to Dr. Muwonge on behalf of the Government and people of Sierra Leone, while wishing him success in his future endeavours.
President Bio also welcomed the incoming World Bank Country Manager, who is expected to assume office in September 2026, and reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to deepening its longstanding partnership with the institution.
The ceremony served as both a formal recognition of Dr. Muwonge’s contribution to Sierra Leone and a reaffirmation of the enduring partnership between the Government of Sierra Leone and the World Bank.