Sierra Leone is stepping up efforts to position the country for increased investment as preparations intensify for the West Africa Integration and Investment Summit (WAIIS) 2026, scheduled for 16–18 November.

The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) says it is working to develop a strong portfolio of bankable and investment-ready projects that can attract financing, create jobs and expand economic opportunities across the country.

The initiative was discussed during a stakeholder meeting held in Freetown on Thursday, 13 August, bringing together members of the Ministerial Steering Committee, technical officials and investment stakeholders to review projects being prepared for presentation at the summit.

According to MoPED, the focus is not simply on identifying projects, but on ensuring that those selected are commercially viable, properly assessed and capable of attracting investors and development finance institutions.

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Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Kenyeh Barlay, said Sierra Leone must approach the summit with credible projects that are aligned with the country’s development priorities and capable of securing investment and strategic partnerships.

She also stressed the need for stronger coordination among ministries, departments and agencies involved in preparing the projects to ensure Sierra Leone presents a coherent and competitive investment portfolio.

Special Envoy for WAIIS, Alhaji Dr Kandeh K. Yumkella, described the summit as an important opportunity for Sierra Leone to transform its investment potential into concrete partnerships and long-term development gains.

The projects being considered cover several key areas of the economy, including energy, strategic minerals, agribusiness, digital transformation, tourism, fisheries, the blue economy, maritime connectivity and industrial development.

MoPED says investments in these sectors could contribute to job creation, improved infrastructure, expanded business opportunities and stronger economic activity.

Director of Planning and Research at MoPED, Dr Sheka Bangura, said proposed projects will undergo technical and market assessments, costing, financial modelling, economic appraisal and risk analysis before being considered investment-ready.

He explained that the final selection will be guided by factors including alignment with national priorities, level of preparation, bankability, implementation capacity and readiness for engagement with investors.

As preparations continue, MoPED is expected to work with the National Investment Board, line ministries, government agencies, development partners and private-sector stakeholders to develop a focused portfolio of projects for WAIIS 2026.

The government hopes the initiative will strengthen Sierra Leone’s ability to attract investment and development financing while supporting the objectives of the Medium Term National Development Plan and creating broader economic opportunities for citizens.