Abuja, Nigeria – December 12, 2024

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Kenyeh Barlay, has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission to expedite implementation of critical development projects in Sierra Leone. Speaking at the 93rd Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers in Abuja, Nigeria, the Minister emphasized Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to regional integration and development, while urging member states to uphold their financial and developmental obligations.

During her interventions, Madam Barlay commended the comprehensive report presented by ECOWAS Commission President H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray and applauded the work of all committees. She reiterated Sierra Leone’s dedication to supporting ECOWAS’ mission to promote economic integration and resilience in the region.

The Minister raised concerns about the decline in community levy mobilization, which has significantly hampered ECOWAS operations. She noted that the financial challenges faced by the Commission are largely due to some member states not meeting their levy commitments. Madam Barlay proudly emphasized that Sierra Leone is fully paid up in its community levy contributions and appealed to other member states to honor their obligations to ensure the Commission remains strong and effective.

Madam Barlay highlighted the importance of the ECOWAS Lungi Logistic Depot, noting that while its construction is complete, the project is delayed due to the pending installation of furniture and equipment. She urged the Commission to monitor the procurement process closely to ensure timely delivery. The Minister also updated the Council on Sierra Leone’s additional efforts, including acquiring extra land to facilitate the Depot’s access to the coast. She emphasized the need for the Depot’s commissioning to be a high-level event and proposed it be included as a flagship activity during the ECOWAS 50th anniversary celebrations in 2025.

The Minister expressed concern over the prolonged delays in the construction of the Sierra Leone-Liberia Joint Border Post at Jendema/Bo Waterside. Despite the project commencing in 2018, progress has been slow, with the bid opening process only concluding in November 2024. She called for urgent action to ensure timely advance payments to the successful bidder so construction can begin without further delays.

Madam Barlay lauded the ECOWAS Volunteer Programme, which has had a significant impact in Sierra Leone and Liberia. However, she pointed out the decline in the number of volunteers deployed to Sierra Leone—from 40 to 21—and urged the Commission to restore the original number while also expanding the program across all member states.

She concluded by thanking the ECOWAS Commission for its dedication to regional development and integration. Madam Barlay reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to supporting the Commission’s efforts and ensuring that regional initiatives bring tangible benefits to the citizens of West Africa.

H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, reassured the Council of Ministers of the Commission’s steadfast commitment to advancing West Africa’s integration and development agenda. He emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing regional challenges and achieving sustainable development for all member states.

Sierra Leone’s participation at the session underscores the country’s leadership and active role in fostering regional collaboration. With continued efforts, ECOWAS is poised to strengthen its impact and drive forward a unified vision for West Africa’s future.

The minister was accompanied by Komba Momoh, Deputy Development Secretary and Head of ECOWAS National Office Sierra Leone.

For further information, please contact Alfred Kabia on +23279174027 or visit the Ministry’s official social media handles: Twitter-@moped2024, on Facebook and website:
Moped.gov.sl
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