Ireland’s Ambassador-Designate Meets UNDP to Strengthen Governance Partnership in Sierra Leone
Aminata Koroma Ireland’s Ambassador-Designate to Sierra Leone, Patrick McManus, paid a courtesy visit to UNDP Resident Representative Fredrick Ampiah this week, reaffirming the strong partnership between Ireland and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the country.
The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in governance, elections, and national institutional capacity-building, including support for the Human Rights Commission. Both parties also explored new avenues to strengthen democratic processes and human rights initiatives in Sierra Leone.
Ireland has a long-standing history of supporting UNDP’s work in the country. In November 2022, Ireland, together with the European Union, contributed €1.5 million to the UNDP-managed Electoral Basket Fund, helping Sierra Leone’s electoral management bodies conduct peaceful, credible, and inclusive elections. The funding particularly supported the empowerment of women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
Looking ahead, Ireland has committed €7.75 million (approximately USD 8.37 million) to UNDP’s core resources for 2024, supporting sustainable development initiatives and governance programs worldwide.
The recent courtesy call underscores both parties’ renewed commitment to strengthening democratic governance, human rights, and institutional capacity in Sierra Leone, further cementing Ireland’s broader development partnership with the country.