Head of German Inspection Team, Barbara Wolf, Pays Courtesy Call on Minister Kenyeh Barlay—Discusses Strengthening Cooperation
The Head of the German Inspection Team to Sierra Leone, Mrs. Barbara Wolf, paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), Madam Kenyeh Barlay, at her Tower Hill office in Freetown on Tuesday.
The visit aimed to assess the strength of cooperation between Germany and Sierra Leone, particularly through implementing agencies such as GIZ, in advancing key areas of development under their bilateral cooperation framework.
During the meeting, both parties engaged in productive discussions regarding the longstanding partnership between Sierra Leone and Germany. They highlighted the strong collaboration between MoPED and the German Embassy in ensuring effective coordination of development programs. They discussed areas of cooperation such as renewable energy, agriculture and food security, digitalization, and women’s economic empowerment, all of which align with the Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) 2024-2030. They also reflected on the impact of global economic challenges, including the Russia-Ukraine war, and how ongoing interventions aim to mitigate economic shocks on vulnerable populations.
Madam Barlay acknowledged the German Embassy’s active role in development coordination, noting that Germany is now the third Co-Chair of the Development Partners Committee (DEPAC), representing bilateral partners. She commended Germany’s flexibility, consistent engagement, and participation in key government-led development dialogues.
Another critical issue discussed was the impact of the suspension of USAID funding and its broader implications for development assistance coordination in Sierra Leone. Both parties explored strategies to mitigate the effects of this suspension and ensure continued progress in key development sectors.
The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to deepening their cooperation and enhancing mutual efforts toward Sierra Leone’s sustainable development.
For more information, please contact Alfred Kabia at +23279174027 or visit MoPED’s social media platforms: Twitter (@moped2025), Facebook, or the official website (moped.gov.sl).