Sierra Leone’s Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Kenyeh Barlay, delivered a powerful message at the UN 2024 Financing for Development Follow-up Forum. She urged developed countries to fulfill their commitments to global development finance.

Minister Barlay reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s dedication to its New Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024-2030). However, she highlighted a significant funding gap of US$2.56 billion. She emphasized the urgent need for global cooperation in the face of socio-economic challenges and climate change threats.

The Minister outlined Sierra Leone’s plan to address these issues. The country intends to utilize innovative financing mechanisms and strengthen partnerships to achieve sustainable development. This includes harnessing climate finance opportunities, improving public financial management systems, and creating attractive investment opportunities.

Minister Barlay stressed the critical role of international cooperation. She called for reforms in financial structures, technology transfer, and climate finance initiatives specifically designed to support developing nations. Furthermore, she advocated for debt relief for vulnerable countries.

“Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to transformation and resilience, coupled with our call for global solidarity, exemplifies the spirit of progress and collaboration at the heart of the Financing for Development agenda,” Minister Barlay declared.

She concluded by reiterating Sierra Leone’s readiness to collaborate with development partners. Minister Barlay’s message echoed a resounding call for a brighter, more inclusive future where all nations can prosper and achieve the goals outlined in the upcoming Summit of the Future.