Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Kenyeh Barlay, has underscored the extensive national, regional, and international collaboration driving Sierra Leone’s preparations for the forthcoming ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit, describing the event as a strategic opportunity to advance regional integration while delivering tangible economic benefits for the country.

Speaking during the Government’s Weekly Press Conference at the Miatta Civic Centre in Freetown, Minister Barlay said preparations for the summit have brought together government institutions, development partners, local stakeholders, and communities in a coordinated effort to ensure the successful hosting of the regional gathering.

She explained that international development partners have aligned their support with the four strategic priorities outlined by President Julius Maada Bio following his assumption of the Chairmanship of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.

According to the Minister, these priorities reflect ECOWAS’ core mandate and provide a framework for addressing key challenges confronting the West African region.

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Barlay identified the restoration of constitutional order and the strengthening of democratic governance as the first priority, noting that President Bio has continued to engage leaders of countries affected by unconstitutional changes of government to promote peaceful dialogue and support credible transitions back to constitutional rule.

She added that Sierra Leone has also strengthened collaboration with development partners working in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and democratic governance, reinforcing ECOWAS’ longstanding commitment to regional peace and stability.

On regional security, the Minister said renewed attention is being given to revitalising the ECOWAS Logistics Depot and enhancing the operational readiness of the ECOWAS Standby Force.

She disclosed that several development partners have expressed interest in supporting the modernisation of the depot through investments in logistics infrastructure, equipment maintenance, medical facilities, training centres, and accommodation for personnel.

Addressing economic integration, Barlay reaffirmed that expanding regional trade, investment, and economic cooperation remains central to the ECOWAS agenda. She announced that Sierra Leone will later this year host the West African Integration Summit as part of broader efforts to deepen economic cooperation across the region.

She further revealed that Ambassador Osman Keh Kamara KaiKai has been appointed as Special Envoy for the initiative to help sustain momentum for regional integration beyond the ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit.

The Minister also highlighted institutional reform as the fourth strategic priority, stressing the need to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of ECOWAS in responding to the evolving needs of its member states. She cited the Compact for the Future as one of the key reform initiatives endorsed by member states to strengthen the regional organisation.

Beyond the policy agenda, Barlay said hosting the ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit is expected to stimulate economic activity across several sectors, including hospitality, transportation, tourism, catering, retail, and other service industries.

She noted that official summit meetings will be held at various venues across Freetown, particularly in the Aberdeen and Lumley Beach areas, creating increased business opportunities for hotels, transport operators, restaurants, and other local enterprises.

To maximise the economic impact, the Minister disclosed that ECOWAS has encouraged the use of locally owned hotels wherever feasible, enabling Sierra Leonean businesses to benefit directly from the influx of delegates and visitors attending the summit.

Barlay concluded that the ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit represents more than a diplomatic engagement, describing it as an important platform to strengthen regional cooperation, promote democratic governance and security, deepen economic integration, and create lasting economic opportunities for Sierra Leone.

She expressed confidence that the successful hosting of the summit will further enhance Sierra Leone’s reputation as a credible regional partner and a capable host of major international events while generating meaningful benefits for businesses and communities across the country.