IMF Executive Director Ends Five Days Working Visits to Sierra Leone

Professor Ouattara Wautabouna, Executive Director for the Africa West Constituency of International Monetary Fund (IMF), has ended a five-day working visit to Sierra Leone, where he engaged with key economic management officials on matters concerning the country’s present Extended Credit Facility arrangement with the IMF.

Professor Wautabouna, who arrived in Freetown on February 13, 2025, participated in the Convergence Meeting of West Africa Monetary Zone Ministers and Central Bank Governors on February 14, held at the Radisson Blu Hotel.

He also paid a courtesy visit to Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, and introduced by Honourable Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura. This visit marked the Professor’s first official engagement since assuming his role in November 2024.

In his meeting with Vice President Jalloh, Professor Wautabouna thanked Sierra Leone for its support during his election and reaffirmed his commitment to promoting the country’s interests at the IMF, during his meeting with Vice President Juldeh Jalloh.

He explained that the purpose of his visit was to gain insight into Sierra Leone’s position under the present ECF arrangement and to support the government in completing its first review under the program.

Vice President Juldeh Jalloh acknowledged the IMF’s support and emphasized Sierra Leone’s commitment to the ECF arrangement, highlighting the government’s efforts to improve domestic revenue mobilization.

He also addressed the challenges the country faces in expanding infrastructure due to resource constraints, emphasizing the need for financial support from international institutions to address the critical barriers to economic growth and development.

On February 17, the IMF Executive Director met with Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance and the economic team, where discussions centered on the progress of the ECF program and the country’s economic outlook.

The Minister of Finance briefed Professor Wautabouna on the improving inflation rate, stable exchange rates, and challenges in domestic revenue generation and debt management.

Professor Wautabouna assured the government of his continued support and encouraged strong commitment from Sierra Leone’s leadership to meet the program’s agreed benchmarks.

The West Africa Constituency of the IMF, which includes 14 countries such as Sierra Leone, Cote D’Ivoire, Nigeria, and others, will continue to support Sierra Leone’s economic efforts under the IMF’s guidance.

The IMF Executive Director’s visit highlights the ongoing partnership between Sierra Leone and the IMF, as the country works to stabilize its economy and address key challenges.