By: Fayia Jr. Moseray
The National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), in partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), has successfully concluded a nationwide monitoring and evaluation (M&E) mission to assess the progress of Phase II of the Sierra Leone Community Driven Development (SLCDD) Project.
This strategic field mission involved on-the-spot visits to project implementation sites in various districts, including Bonthe and Moyamba in the eastern region of Sierra Leone. The primary objective was to assess the impact, monitor ongoing activities, and evaluate the overall status of SLCDD Phase II.
Funded largely by the Islamic Development Bank, the SLCDD II project aims to uplift vulnerable communities through skills training, direct cash transfers, and improved access to basic services. The project is designed to improve living conditions and promote sustainable development in rural areas.
NaCSA Commissioner, Ambassador Ernest Mbaimba Ndohmaina, expressed gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio for the opportunity to lead this transformative initiative. He emphasized the strong political support the project has received, noting that Phase I was a major success and Phase II is poised to deliver even greater impact.
“This project aligns perfectly with President Bio’s human capital development agenda under the ‘Big Five Game Changer’ initiative,” Ambassador Ndohmaina stated. “The government is committed to ensuring that no community is left behind as we work toward national transformation.”
The Commissioner also praised the collaborative efforts between NaCSA and the Islamic Development Bank, describing the partnership as a model for effective international cooperation in development.
“This is what true development partnership looks like one that is transparent, inclusive, and driven by the needs of the people,” he said.
A representative from the Islamic Development Bank commended the progress made so far and the dedication shown by NaCSA in implementing the project. “The Bank is very pleased with the positive impact recorded to date and remains committed to supporting the successful delivery of SLCDD II in Sierra Leone,” the representative affirmed.
Both institutions reiterated their commitment to working together in synergy to achieve the project’s objectives, including infrastructure development, livelihood empowerment, and enhanced access to essential social services in rural communities.
Community stakeholders in the project areas expressed profound appreciation to the government and the IsDB for the initiative, describing it as a catalyst for rural transformation and poverty reduction.
According to NaCSA, the field visits offered a critical opportunity for both institutions to gather firsthand feedback, evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, and ensure that project implementation remains on track and aligned with national development goals.