Sierra Leone’s Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have convened the inaugural Planning Committee meeting to coordinate preparations for the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary, scheduled for April 27, 2026. The meeting, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, marks the official start of structured planning for the national celebration.
The initiative is jointly supervised by the Office of the President, the Office of National Security, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, bringing together key government institutions to ensure a coordinated approach to the anniversary events. Initial discussions focused on establishing the committee’s mandate, structure, and operational priorities.
Dr. Ahmed Sannoh, Deputy Director at the Office of National Security, opened the meeting by outlining the committee’s role in linking the Strategy and Project Finance Committees. He emphasized the importance of early operational planning to ensure a successful commemoration and urged members to demonstrate leadership and accountability in executing their responsibilities.
During the session, members were divided into smaller working groups, each assigned specific tasks under the broader Planning Committee framework. The arrangement is intended to promote efficiency while maintaining a unified national approach.
Mr. Alan C. Logan, Director General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, provided guidance on the overall planning framework. Discussions centered on structural coordination, programme development, and clarifying roles and responsibilities among participating institutions.
The committee identified eight priority areas to guide preparations. Sub-committee heads are expected to convene their respective teams to deliberate on assigned portfolios, develop budget proposals, and submit recommendations for consolidation into a comprehensive national plan.
Officials said the collaborative planning model is designed to ensure that all aspects of the 65th Independence Anniversary from logistics to programming are effectively coordinated.









