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Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, as the Chair of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy & Food Security (PI-CREF), highlighted the crucial role of cooperation and strategic alliances in addressing national priorities during talks conducted on March 6th, 2024, at the State House.
Engaging in substantive discussions with the British High Commissioner, HE Lisa Chesney, and her team, Dr. Yumkella outlined the scope of PI-CREF’s mandate and underscored its ongoing efforts.
The conversations emphasized the urgent need for a unified vision and narrative on Climate Change & Energy Issues. Both parties stressed the significance of policy coherence, particularly concerning the interplay of energy with women’s empowerment and food security, gender economic empowerment, and the necessity for transparent policies and regulations on climate finance and carbon trading.
Furthermore, they explored strategic approaches to capitalize on opportunities presented by the Blue Economy. Dr. Yumkella expressed appreciation to the FCDO for their backing in launching a mini-grid sector in the country and their ongoing technical assistance to the Ministry of Energy’s planning unit.
Following this, Dr. Yumkella facilitated discussions with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) on devising and executing an innovative livestock and livelihood project under Feed Salone. IFAD, represented by Country Representative Madamme Pascaline Barankeba, reaffirmed their dedication to improving agricultural sustainability and rural development in Sierra Leone.
Participating in a consultative session chaired by Mr. Joe Demby, the Presidential Adviser on Economic and Financial Policy, Dr. Yumkella collaborated with key stakeholders, including the Executive Director of the National Investment Board, representatives from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and the Ministries of Water Resources and Planning and Economic Development (MoPED).
The primary focus was on ensuring coherence in the development of public investment projects, consistent prioritization of projects, enhancing project viability, and reinforcing the NIB’s capacity as the custodian of investible public investment projects.
Wrapping up the day’s engagements, Dr. Yumkella met with Palm Acres, an innovative agribusiness venture spearheaded by young female entrepreneurs. The entrepreneurs presented their plan for palm oil processing and packaging, highlighting the value proposition for targeted marketing and their substantial personal investments in the enterprise.
Dr. Yumkella encouraged the entrepreneurs to pursue their ambitions and serve as role models for other educated youth interested in agribusiness. He expressed optimism about their integration into the Feed Salone agricultural value chain enhancement program.
The discussions and meetings underscored the significance of collaboration, innovation, and investment in addressing Sierra Leone’s critical challenges in climate change, renewable energy, food security, and economic development. Dr. Yumkella’s leadership and commitment to fostering partnerships for sustainable development play a pivotal role in advancing the country’s socio-economic agenda.
