The Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Kenyeh Barlay, has commended the outgoing Minister of Finance, Mr. Sheku Ahmed Fatamadi Bangura, for his professionalism and contribution to Sierra Leone’s economic management, while pledging the continued support of MoPED to the incoming Minister of Finance, Mr. Kelfala A. F. Kargbo.
Minister Barlay made the remarks today 3rd September, 2026 at the leadership handover ceremony held at the Ministry of Finance Conference Hall, where Mr. Bangura formally handed over the leadership of the Ministry to Mr. Kargbo.
Reflecting on her working relationship with Mr. Bangura, Minister Barlay described him as a highly professional and experienced public servant, recalling their engagements during his previous roles in international development and his tenure at the Ministry of Finance.
She highlighted the longstanding collaboration between MoPED and the Ministry of Finance, particularly in the preparation and implementation of the national budget. She noted that the two institutions have a shared responsibility in ensuring that the country’s capital and recurrent expenditures are aligned with national development priorities.
Welcoming Mr. Kargbo, Minister Barlay expressed confidence in his leadership and assured him of MoPED’s full cooperation as both institutions continue working together to advance Government’s economic and development agenda.
She further emphasised the importance of continued collaboration, noting that the upcoming budget process would require close coordination between MoPED and the Ministry of Finance to align fiscal policies, resource allocation and national development priorities.
The outgoing Minister of Finance, Mr. Sheku Ahmed Fatamadi Bangura, in his remarks, expressed appreciation to the President, the people of Sierra Leone and staff of the Ministry for their support throughout his tenure. He stressed that the achievements recorded under his leadership were collective efforts and not the work of one individual.
Mr. Bangura also presented a comprehensive handover document covering the Ministry’s achievements from 2023 to date, ongoing programmes and commitments with international partners, the current budget, innovative financing instruments and updates from various departments and divisions.
He assured the incoming Minister of his continued support and availability in his new role as Presidential Adviser, noting his willingness to provide guidance whenever required to facilitate a smooth transition.
In his first remarks as Minister of Finance, Mr. Kelfala A. F. Kargbo thanked his predecessor and the staff of the Ministry for their contribution to the country’s fiscal management. He identified strengthening fiscal space, improving domestic revenue mobilisation, managing the fiscal deficit and strengthening cash-flow management as key priorities.
Minister Kargbo also called for teamwork, honest and evidence-based advice, urging staff to provide accurate data and constructive recommendations as the Ministry works to meet Government’s fiscal and economic targets.
The Deputy Minister of Finance II, Mrs. Isata Marrah, welcomed the incoming Minister and assured him of the commitment of the Ministry’s leadership and staff to supporting his mandate. She also appreciated the outgoing Minister for his service and contribution to the Ministry.
The Chairman of the ceremony, Samuel E. B. Momoh, and the Senior Deputy Financial Secretary also welcomed the transition and acknowledged the importance of continuity, professionalism and institutional collaboration in strengthening public financial management.
The ceremony brought together staff of the Ministry of Finance, The Development Secretary of MoPED and sister Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as the Commissioner-General of the National Revenue Authority and the Accountant-General.
The event was climaxed by the presentation of gifts to the outgoing Minister, Mr. Sheku Ahmed Fatamadi Bangura, in recognition of his service and contribution to the Ministry of Finance and the Government of Sierra Leone.
The leadership transition comes at a critical period as the Ministry of Finance and MoPED continue to strengthen coordination around fiscal management, resource mobilisation and the implementation of Sierra Leone’s national development priorities.
For further enquiries, contact The PR Team:
Senior Information Officer: +23278146825
Follow MoPED on Twitter (@moped2025), Facebook, or visit: moped.gov.sl