The Parliament of Sierra Leone, on Tuesday 24/06/2025, debated and passed into law with some amendments, the Bill entitled “The Investment Framework Agreement (Ratification) Act 2025”.
The Bill Seeks to provide for the ratification by Parliament of the Investment Framework Agreement for Investment in and development of Sherbro Island Between the Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone of the one part and Shebro Alliance Partnership Limited of the Other part and to provide for other related matters.
Presenting the Bill to Parliament, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq, said the document seeks the ratification of the investment framework agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and Sherbro Alliance Partners Limited. He went on to note that the agreement outlined the investment and development of Sherbro Island.
Minister Sesay explained that the Bill is divided into eight parts, each addressing critical components of the agreement. He emphasized the importance of these sections for the understanding and benefit of Members of Parliament (MPs).
“Today, we took the bold step to bring the vision of a Sherbro Island City to life. It was great to be in Parliament to pilot the successful passage of the Investment Framework Agreement (Ratification) Act, 2025- an Agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and Sherbro Alliance Partners (SAP) Ltd., for investment in and development of Sherbro Island. This Agreement will establish the Sherbro Island Development Zone, create a Special Economic Zone, develop the new city on Bonthe Island as a hub for inclusive and sustainable growth, establish a development authority, and implement development programs as a GOSL joint venture with the SAP. The steadfastness of Mr. Idriss Elba and his team, and the commitment of His Excellency Julius Maada Bio have brought this vision to life.” Minister of Justice explained in his Facebook page.
During the debate, Hon. Sulaiman Marry Conteh from Western Area described the Bill as straightforward and underscored its potential for contributing significantly to Sierra Leone’s socioeconomic development.
Hon. Joseph Williams-Lamin of Bo District stressed on the importance of the Bill, stating its contents were clear. However, he raised concerns about whether local communities had been adequately informed about the project.
In his contribution, Hon. Moses Edwin of Bonthe District affirmed that the people of Bonthe were well-informed about the agreement. He highlighted the importance of the Bonthe Trust Fund as part of the investment framework. “This project is laudable for the development of Bonthe Island,” he said, adding that the investment is timely given the area’s historically slow development.
Hon. Quintin Salia-Konneh from Kailahun District welcomed the initiative and acknowledged the challenges faced by Sherbro Island. He also questioned whether residents were sufficiently aware of the development plans and pledged his support for the Bill. Also spoke about the consultative implementation of the project.
Hon. Emelia L. Tongi from Kailahun District heaped praises on the Bill, calling it one of the most promising pieces of legislation presented before Parliament. She noted that Sierra Leone’s attractiveness to investors and encouraged more investment in the country.
Hon. Musa Fofanah also supported the Bill, calling it a blessing for the people of Bonthe and the nation as a whole. He commended the government for demonstration of leadership in securing such investments and emphasized the importance of the Trust Fund provision.
From Kono District, Hon. Rebecca Y. Kamara welcomed the investment, describing it as an eye-opener for future opportunities. Drawing comparisons with Cyprus, she stressed the potential for island-based development. “Sierra Leone is beautiful and more secure,” she concluded, encouraging citizens to embrace the initiative.
Hon. Bash Kamara of Bo District described Sherbro Island as one of the most underdeveloped communities in the country. He welcomed the investment and noted the island’s untapped tourism potential.
In conclusion, the Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie expressed strong support for the Bill. He reaffirmed its importance and assured Parliament that all necessary steps would be taken to ensure its successful passage into law.
