The Director of AFRITAC West 2, I.F. Razafimahefa, has paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Minister K. Barlay in Freetown ahead of the 13th AFRITAC West 2 Steering Committee Meeting.
The meeting brought together senior government officials and development partners to review progress and set priorities for regional technical assistance across member countries.
During the courtesy call, discussions focused on strengthening regional cooperation, advancing public sector reforms, and improving economic governance. Minister Barlay welcomed the Director and reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to working closely with AFRITAC West 2 to build institutional capacity and improve service delivery. He noted that technical support from the IMF regional center has been instrumental in supporting the country’s reform agenda, particularly in public financial management and fiscal policy.
Director Razafimahefa highlighted AFRITAC West 2’s role in providing tailored capacity development to member states. She emphasized that the upcoming 13th Steering Committee Meeting will provide an opportunity to assess progress under ongoing programs and align future support with national priorities. Key areas expected to feature in the discussions include budget transparency, debt management, tax administration, and statistical systems.
The Steering Committee serves as the main decision-making body of AFRITAC West 2, guiding its work program and ensuring that technical assistance responds directly to the needs of member countries. Sierra Leone is hosting this year’s meeting, which is expected to bring together delegates from across West Africa and development partner institutions.
Minister Barlay said hosting the meeting in Freetown underscores Sierra Leone’s growing role in regional economic dialogue. He added that the government remains open to partnerships that strengthen governance, accountability, and sustainable development.
AFRITAC West 2, a collaborative initiative between the International Monetary Fund, member countries, and development partners, continues to support reforms aimed at improving economic resilience and promoting inclusive growth across the sub-region.