By: Saidu Jalloh
Ministry of Planning and Economic Development reaffirmed the country’s commitment to regional cooperation and digital transformation following a high-level meeting with Economic Community of West African States Commissioner for Internal Services, Habibu Yaya Bappah.
The meeting took place in Freetown during a farewell courtesy visit by Dr. Bappah and his delegation, marking the conclusion of the 20th Ministerial Session of Ministers responsible for Telecommunications, ICT and Digitalization.
The session brought together ministers, technical experts and development partners from across West Africa for several days of policy dialogue and consultations focused on accelerating digital transformation and strengthening regional cooperation within the digital economy.
Dr. Bappah commended the Government of Sierra Leone for its effective coordination and hospitality during the event. He noted that the successful hosting of the session reflects the country’s growing leadership role within ECOWAS at a time when digitalization is key to economic transformation and regional integration.
He also highlighted ongoing institutional reforms within ECOWAS, explaining that current performance indicators represent only part of the organization’s reporting cycle, with improvements often recorded later in the year as implementation efforts progress. He stressed the importance of timely submission of evaluation reports to effectively track institutional performance.
Discussions during the meeting covered key operational matters, including the ECOWAS Community Levy, administrative and financial processes, and the operationalization of ECOWAS institutions in Sierra Leone. The delegation also reviewed progress on the ECOWAS logistics depot project, a critical component of the bloc’s regional security and operational framework.
Minister Barlay noted that the depot project, which began in 2021, is nearing completion. She disclosed that ICT equipment and furniture have already been delivered and are awaiting installation. She also acknowledged government support, including duty-free waivers that facilitated the importation of materials.
On financial commitments, the minister reiterated Sierra Leone’s determination to meet its ECOWAS obligations, including the consistent remittance of the Community Levy. She added that the government is strengthening internal coordination to ensure timely payments while addressing outstanding legacy issues.
Barlay further highlighted ongoing preparations for the upcoming ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government Summit, which Sierra Leone is set to host. She said planning efforts are being coordinated through an inter-ministerial framework chaired by David Moinina Sengeh to ensure alignment with national priorities.
The minister noted that hosting the summit presents an opportunity to deepen regional integration while enhancing Sierra Leone’s infrastructure and global profile.
At the ICT ministerial session, Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh emphasised the importance of digital transformation in driving economic growth and regional integration. He stressed the need for stronger digital infrastructure and policy frameworks to support innovation and connectivity across the region.
Meanwhile, President Julius Maada Bio, who currently chairs the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, has prioritized regional cooperation and digital development as part of broader efforts to promote inclusive economic growth in West Africa.
Chief Minister Sengeh added that preparations for the summit are at an advanced stage, with major infrastructure developments planned in Freetown and Lungi. These include a modern conference centre, presidential villas and a four-star hotel, all aimed at strengthening the country’s capacity to host major international events.