By: Saidu Jalloh
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), through its Directorate of Humanitarian and Social Affairs and in collaboration with national partners, has officially launched a landmark humanitarian project in Sierra Leone aimed at strengthening support for Persons of Concern (PoCs) and their host communities.
The initiative targets Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), refugees, returnees, stateless persons, asylum seekers, and host populations. It reinforces ECOWAS’ commitment to humanitarian protection, resilience-building, and inclusive development across the sub-region, while responding to Sierra Leone’s specific displacement and migration challenges.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Kenyeh Ballay, described the project as a significant step toward inclusive national and regional development.
“Today marks an important milestone in our collective journey toward inclusive growth and regional integration,” she said.
Dr. Ballay disclosed that a comprehensive national implementation plan has been developed to benefit both Sierra Leoneans and ECOWAS community members. She announced that beneficiary support will be delivered through token distribution via the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB), a mechanism designed to enhance transparency, accessibility, and accountability.
The Minister commended the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) for its steadfast commitment, noting that the institution’s leadership played a pivotal role in the successful development of the project.
The Deputy Commissioner of NaCSA, Dr. Susan Robert, reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to ensure effective implementation.
“NaCSA is proud to partner with ECOWAS on this transformative initiative. Our mandate has always been to protect the vulnerable and empower communities. By addressing the needs of both persons of concern and host populations, we are fostering peaceful coexistence, reducing social tensions, and creating pathways for sustainable livelihoods,” she stated.
Representing ECOWAS, the Resident Representative to Sierra Leone, Mr. John Azumah, emphasized the regional importance of the intervention.
“ECOWAS stands firmly with Sierra Leone in advancing humanitarian protection and social inclusion. This project reflects our collective responsibility to uphold human dignity across West Africa. By strengthening national systems and supporting affected communities, we are laying a solid foundation for resilience, peace, and regional stability,” he said.
The launch of the project marks a critical advancement in Sierra Leone’s humanitarian response framework. By addressing immediate humanitarian needs while promoting long-term resilience, the ECOWAS-supported initiative is expected to improve livelihoods, strengthen community cohesion, and deepen regional solidarity signaling a shift toward humanitarian action that is both responsive and sustainable.