The Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Kenyeh Barlay, has commended the outgoing Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fatamadi Bangura, for his professionalism and contributions to Sierra Leone’s economic management, while pledging MoPED’s continued support for the incoming Minister of Finance,  Kelfala A. F. Kargbo.

Minister Barlay made the remarks on Thursday, 3rd September, 2026, at the leadership handover ceremony held at the Ministry of Finance Conference Hall, where Mr. Bangura formally handed over the leadership of the Ministry to Mr. Kargbo.

Reflecting on her working relationship with Mr. Bangura, Minister Barlay described him as a highly professional and experienced public servant, recalling their engagements during his previous roles in international development and his tenure at the Ministry of Finance.

She highlighted the longstanding collaboration between MoPED and the Ministry of Finance, particularly in the preparation and implementation of the national budget. She noted that the two institutions have a shared responsibility in ensuring that the country’s capital and recurrent expenditures are aligned with national development priorities.

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Minister Barlay expressed confidence in his leadership and assured him of MoPED’s full cooperation as both institutions continue working together to advance Government’s economic and development agenda.

She further emphasised the importance of continued collaboration, noting that the upcoming budget process would require close coordination between MoPED and the Ministry of Finance to align fiscal policies, resource allocation and national development priorities.

The outgoing Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fatamadi Bangura, in his remarks, expressed appreciation to the President, the people of Sierra Leone and staff of the Ministry for their support throughout his tenure. He stressed that the achievements recorded under his leadership were collective efforts and not the work of one individual.

He assured the incoming Minister of his continued support and availability in his new role as Presidential Adviser, noting his willingness to provide guidance whenever required to facilitate a smooth transition.

In his first remarks as Minister of Finance, Kelfala A. F. Kargbo thanked his predecessor and the staff of the Ministry for their contribution to the country’s fiscal management. He identified strengthening fiscal space, improving domestic revenue mobilisation, managing the fiscal deficit and strengthening cash-flow management as key priorities.

The event was climaxed by the presentation of gifts to the outgoing Minister, Mr. Sheku Ahmed Fatamadi Bangura, in recognition of his service and contribution to the Ministry of Finance and the Government of Sierra Leone.