By: MoF Communications
As Sierra Leone moves to finalize its National Climate Finance Strategy, Abdu Muwonge, Country Manager of the World Bank Group in Sierra Leone, has called for strong collaboration among stakeholders. His remarks came during the opening ceremony of a one-day validation workshop held at the New Brookfields Hotel on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.
The event brought together a wide range of participants, including representatives from government ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), development partner organizations, civil society groups, educational institutions, and local councils.
In his statement, Muwonge emphasized that the Climate Finance Strategy must prioritize the interests of the people of Sierra Leone, rather than individual institutions. He encouraged participants to take ownership of the document and contribute to the creation of a realistic and implementable strategy.
“This is not the final stage,” Muwonge noted. “It is important to consider the legal, institutional, and administrative frameworks that will be necessary for successful implementation. This process will also open doors to additional opportunities for the country.”
Sellu McCarthy, Head of the Climate Finance Unit at the Ministry of Finance, explained that the validation session follows a series of stakeholder consultations held during the drafting of the strategy. He said the event offers stakeholders the opportunity to review the draft document, provide feedback, and help shape the final version.
Deputy Minister of Finance I, Kadiatu Allie, described the strategy as more than just a policy document it is a collective commitment by the Government of Sierra Leone to mobilize, manage, and direct financial resources toward strengthening climate resilience, reducing emissions, and protecting the nation’s people, economy, and environment.
She highlighted the growing climate vulnerabilities facing Sierra Leone, noting that these challenges are placing immense pressure on public finances, threatening development gains, and undermining the well-being of citizens.
According to Deputy Minister Allie, the National Climate Finance Strategy is designed to scale up investment in climate adaptation, mitigation, and resilience. It seeks to unlock and coordinate both public and private climate financing, strengthen institutional capacity, and align national efforts with global frameworks such as the Paris Agreement.
She concluded by expressing gratitude to the World Bank for its technical and financial support and thanked all stakeholders for their continued collaboration in shaping a robust and impactful strategy.
