By: Aminata Sesay
A high-level delegation from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) recently concluded a crucial supervisory mission to Sierra Leone, commending the ongoing progress of the Sierra Leone Community Driven Development Project (SLCDD). The initiative, a flagship program aimed at enhancing rural livelihoods and promoting inclusive development, has shown significant strides.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by Ambassador Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina, Commissioner of the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA). This mission served as an important checkpoint in the ongoing partnership between the Government of Sierra Leone and the IsDB.
Led by Sabiu Mohamed Auwal, Operations Team Lead at IsDB, the delegation included Cheikh Diouf, Field Procurement Officer, and Asma Bousdira, Programme Management Specialist. The team engaged directly with the SLCDD’s Project Management Unit to assess progress, discuss outcomes, and offer strategic guidance for future initiatives.
“We are pleased to see the SLCDD evolve into a results-driven program that is directly impacting communities,” said Mr. Auwal. “This mission is not just about oversight; it’s about collaboration, learning, and ensuring that the project stays aligned with its original development goals.”
The SLCDD project, supported by IsDB, aims to build community resilience, improve access to essential services, and foster sustainable livelihoods through participatory, community-led approaches. It is a central element of the Government’s broader Feed Salone Agenda, which seeks to transform rural communities through investments in agriculture, infrastructure, and local governance.
During the engagement, Programme Manager Momoh Juana delivered an in-depth Project Progress Report, highlighting key milestones achieved since the last supervisory visit. These include expanded community engagement, improved procurement and financial systems, and faster delivery of services across the targeted districts.
“We have made significant progress in many areas,” Juana remarked. “With the strong support from both NaCSA and IsDB, we can showcase tangible results at the grassroots level. Our collective efforts are transforming communities and bringing lasting change to the lives of the people.”
Ambassador Ndomahina reiterated the Government’s commitment to the SLCDD initiative, describing it as a practical model of decentralized development.
“Under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, we remain dedicated to ensuring this project reaches its full potential,” he stated. “Our focus is on delivering real, lasting benefits to communities and strengthening institutional capacity for long-term sustainability.”
The mission also highlighted the collaborative efforts of key SLCDD personnel, including Ismeal Koroma (Procurement Manager), Syril K. Jusu (Project Engineer), Dolly Coker (Financial Management Specialist), Ibrahim M. Koroma (Information Technology Officer), Matilda Lebbie Sellu (Monitoring and Evaluation Officer), and Janet G.O. N’doinje (Grievance Redress Mechanism Officer). Their participation emphasized the importance of teamwork, accountability, and operational readiness.
As the mission concludes, NaCSA and IsDB will work together to develop actionable recommendations aimed at ensuring continued progress and the long-term sustainability of the project.
The SLCDD remains a shining example of what can be achieved when international development institutions and national governments collaborate with local communities at the heart of planning and implementation.