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Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, hosted the newly appointed Country Manager of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Ado Mensah, at his Treasury Building office in Freetown, where the latter formally presented his credentials.
Welcoming Dr. Mensah, Minister Bangura conveyed appreciation on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio for the Bank’s continued and growing support to Sierra Leone.
He described the relationship between the Government and the African Development Bank as “remarkable,” adding that the country looks forward to a “productive and impactful engagement” under Dr. Mensah’s leadership.
During the meeting, the Finance Minister highlighted the Government’s implementation of what he termed “sound economic policies,” which he said have placed the country’s economy “firmly on the path to sustainability.”
He also disclosed that President Bio has extended an invitation to the President of the African Development Bank Group to visit Sierra Leone as part of ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation.
Minister Bangura further noted that the current unprecedented level of global uncertainty poses risks to developing economies, including Sierra Leone. He urged the Bank to continue its support during what he described as a challenging period.
He stated that the Government is taking steps to ensure the availability of petroleum products, agricultural inputs, and other essential commodities. The Minister also revealed that a formal request would be submitted to the Bank seeking support to cushion the potential economic impact of the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war.
In his remarks, Dr. Ado Mensah congratulated the Finance Minister on what he described as notable progress in improving Sierra Leone’s macroeconomic performance. He reaffirmed the African Development Bank’s commitment to supporting the country’s development priorities.
The meeting notably reflects the continued partnership between Sierra Leone and the African Development Bank, with both sides expressing optimism about strengthening collaboration to support economic stability and growth.
