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Sierra Leone took a significant step toward achieving sustainable development as Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Kenyeh Barlay, wrapped up a transformative three-day SDG Localization Workshop.
The event brought together Development and Planning Officers (DPOs) and local council chiefs, all committed to turning knowledge into action.
In her inspiring closing speech, Minister Barlay praised participants for dedicating four full days—an uncommon commitment among senior officials—and urged them to apply the skills and insights gained to accelerate development projects in their districts.
✨ Key Highlights:
Empowering Local Governance: The Minister emphasized the importance of continuous skills development and building strong professional networks to foster collaboration and problem-solving at the local level.
Achieving Real Impact: Participants were encouraged to translate workshop learnings into tangible project actions that will drive progress across Sierra Leone’s districts.
Supporting Digital Transformation: The event saw the official handover of internet modems to DPOs, designed to enhance data collection, service delivery, and communication.
Partnerships & Strategic Insights:
Prof. Ezekiel Duramany-Lakkoh of the African Peer Review Mechanism outlined strategic objectives for 2025–2028, focusing on impactful implementation, capacity building, resource mobilization, and citizen engagement.
Development Secretary Ambrose James highlighted the reactivation of District Development Coordination Committees (DDCCs) to improve accountability and align district plans with SDGs and Africa’s Agenda 2063.
UNDESA representative Ms. Sara Hamouda stressed the importance of gender-sensitive budgeting and strengthening partnerships to expand SDG efforts beyond municipalities.
Participants were reminded that with dedication, collaboration, and modern tools, Sierra Leone can continue to make strides in SDG localization, governance, and citizen well-being. The workshop’s success marks a vital step toward turning development ambitions into reality.
