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Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, has outlined the country’s recent economic progress during high-level engagements at the 2026 IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings.
Representing President Julius Maada Bio, Bangura briefed international economists, development partners, and financial institutions on reforms aimed at strengthening the country’s macroeconomic framework.
He pointed to ongoing improvements in public financial management, including revisions to the Public Financial Management Act (2016) and the Public Procurement Act (2016), alongside enhanced cash management and forecasting systems.
According to the minister, these measures have contributed to stabilizing key economic indicators over the past two years. He cited lower inflation, a more stable exchange rate, a positive primary fiscal balance, and sustainable interest rates as signs of progress in the country’s economic recovery efforts.
Bangura also acknowledged the role of the International Monetary Fund’s Fiscal Affairs Department in supporting Sierra Leone’s reform agenda through technical assistance.
He called for continued collaboration, particularly in strengthening the mining sector, advancing tax reforms, and improving domestic revenue mobilization strategies.
Responding to the minister’s remarks, Rodrigo Valdes commended Sierra Leone’s reform efforts and reaffirmed the IMF’s commitment to ongoing support.
Discussions with the IMF country team, led by Christian Saborowski, also focused on external risks, including the potential economic implications of the ongoing Middle East crisis and adjustments under the Extended Credit Facility programme.
The IMF noted that developing economies like Sierra Leone continue to face pressures related to food security and poverty, challenges that could be exacerbated by global instability.
In separate engagements, Bangura met with Zarau W. Kibwe of the World Bank Group. He presented Sierra Leone’s position on accessing additional support mechanisms to mitigate external shocks, including discussions around the use of the Rapid Response Option to help cushion the domestic impact of global crises.
The Spring Meetings, held from April 13 to 18, bring together finance ministers, central bank governors, investors, civil society representatives, and academics from across the world to deliberate on global economic growth, financial stability, and poverty reduction strategies.
Sierra Leone’s participation comes amid broader efforts to consolidate economic gains while navigating external uncertainties affecting developing economies.
