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The German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Sierra Leone Office have marked a major milestone in their joint initiative, “Empowering Communities, Deepening Democracy,” with a dynamic community event held in Port Loko on August 25, 2025.
The event, part of the project’s training phase for local councils and communities, brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including the Port Loko District Council, the city mayor, the provincial secretary, women’s groups, civil society organizations, youth groups, media representatives, and members of vulnerable communities. Their presence highlighted the project’s inclusive approach and strong community support.
Launched in April 2025 across Freetown, Makeni, and Bo, the initiative seeks to strengthen decentralization and promote community-led governance. Its goals include fostering accountability, inclusivity, and transparency in decision-making, aligning closely with Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) 2024–2030 and the government’s “Big Five Game Changers.”
Speaking at the event, Dr. Hindowa Momoh, a lead consultant for the APRM National Secretariat, emphasized the value of citizen engagement. “The APRM process is not a one-size-fits-all framework; it is a tool of empowerment, designed to ensure that governance is as inclusive and transparent as the people it serves,” he said.
As part of the outreach, a special radio program was broadcast on Bankasoka Radio and other local stations, encouraging citizens to actively participate in shaping governance structures. This effort reinforced APRM’s commitment to grassroots involvement and inclusivity.
The project also aligns with broader continental and global frameworks, including the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By empowering communities and local councils, the initiative advances objectives related to good governance, sustainable cities, and strong institutions, while supporting broader goals in health, education, and economic growth.
Expressing gratitude to GIZ, the Executive Secretary of the APRM National Secretariat described the partnership as a model of international cooperation. “GIZ’s investment in Sierra Leone’s future is a testament to the power of collaboration. Together, we are building a stronger, more sustainable Sierra Leone rooted in democracy and accountability,” the Executive Secretary stated.
As Sierra Leone continues its democratic journey, the Port Loko event stands as a symbol of progress, uniting communities and institutions in a shared vision of inclusive governance and sustainable development.
