Three Years On: How Financial Secretary Matthew Dingie Helped Steer Sierra Leone's Economic Recovery

Matthew Dingie Marks Three Years as Financial Secretary with Major Economic Milestones

From record-high inflation to renewed investor confidence, Sierra Leone's economic recovery story has been shaped by a series of reforms led by Financial Secretary Matthew Dingie over the past three years.

Three years after his appointment by President Dr Julius Maada Bio, Financial Secretary Matthew Dingie is being recognised for overseeing significant improvements in Sierra Leone's economic management amid global and domestic financial challenges.

When Dingie assumed office in July 2023, Sierra Leone faced soaring inflation of 54 per cent, a weakening exchange rate, and mounting fiscal pressures. Within a year, inflation had fallen to 35 per cent by May 2024, while measures to strengthen fiscal discipline and stabilise the economy began delivering positive results. The country's economy is now projected to record average annual growth of around 4 per cent.

His tenure has also been marked by major successes in securing international financial support. In November 2023, Sierra Leone completed the eighth and final review of the International Monetary Fund's Extended Credit Facility (ECF), unlocking US$22 million in direct budget support. A month later, the World Bank approved a US$65 million disbursement after the government met all Development Policy Operation (DPO) requirements.

By 2024, Sierra Leone had fulfilled all prior actions for a successor IMF programme, which received Board approval in October of that year. The country subsequently qualified for the IMF's Resilience and Sustainability Trust in February 2025, with the combined programmes expected to provide more than US$480 million over a three-year period.

Further progress was recorded on 18 June 2026 when the IMF Executive Board approved the third review of Sierra Leone's ECF arrangement, releasing an immediate US$31.7 million. The latest disbursement increased total funding under the programme to approximately US$158.6 million.

The IMF also approved a new Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) worth about US$211.5 million to strengthen Sierra Leone's resilience to climate-related shocks and support long-term economic stability.

Working closely with Minister of Finance Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, Dingie has helped strengthen relationships with international development partners while advancing fiscal reforms. He has consistently attributed the achievements to the collective efforts of the Ministry of Finance team.

As Matthew Dingie marks three years in office, the Ministry of Finance points to declining inflation, stronger fiscal management, and increased international financial support as key indicators of Sierra Leone's ongoing economic recovery.

Source: Ministry of Finance 

 Justice Comes Closer to Kenema: Chief Justice Inspects City's First-Ever Sexual Offences Model Court

KENEMA, Sierra Leone – Sierra Leone's drive to strengthen justice for survivors of sexual violence has reached another major milestone, as Chief Justice His Lordship Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda inspected the construction of Kenema's first-ever Sexual Offences Model Court.

During an unannounced visit on Friday, 10 July 2026, the Chief Justice assessed the progress of the specialised court, which is expected to become the third Sexual Offences Model Court established under his leadership after similar facilities in Makeni and Bo.

Once completed in the coming weeks, the court is expected to transform the handling of sexual offences cases in Kenema and neighbouring districts by providing a dedicated judicial facility designed to improve efficiency, reduce delays, and strengthen access to justice for survivors, particularly women and children.

Beyond the construction site, Justice Kamanda also monitored live proceedings at both the Magistrates' Court and the High Court in Kenema. The visit formed part of his broader effort to evaluate court operations, observe judicial proceedings firsthand, and identify areas for improving the administration of justice.

The Chief Justice was received by Resident High Court Judge Honourable Justice Abdul Sheriff alongside the district's resident magistrates, who accompanied him throughout the inspection.

The visit drew positive reactions from litigants and members of the public, many of whom praised the Chief Justice's hands-on leadership and ongoing reforms within Sierra Leone's Judiciary. Residents described the project as a significant investment in justice and welcomed the continued expansion of specialised courts across the country.

With the Kenema facility nearing completion, Sierra Leone is set to further expand its network of Sexual Offences Model Courts, reinforcing efforts to deliver faster, more specialised justice for victims of sexual violence and advancing the Judiciary's wider reform agenda.

Source: Judiciary of Sierra Leone 

 Sierra Leone's Economic Recovery Earns Fresh IMF Endorsement After Strong Reform Progress

BANJUL, The Gambia — Sierra Leone's economic recovery has received another major international endorsement after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) praised the country's improving macroeconomic performance and successful implementation of key economic reforms.

The Director of the IMF's African Department, Dr. Zeine Zeidane, commended the Minister of Finance, Hon. Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, during a meeting held on the sidelines of the 2026 African Caucus Meetings in Banjul, following Sierra Leone's successful completion of the third review under the IMF's Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme.

Dr. Zeidane highlighted several encouraging achievements, including a significant decline in inflation, improved exchange rate stability, the attainment of international reserve targets, and continued progress towards debt sustainability.

He attributed these gains to the Government's consistent implementation of prudent macroeconomic policies, noting that the reforms are laying a stronger foundation for economic stability, resilience, and long-term growth.

Responding to the IMF's commendation, Minister Bangura reaffirmed the Government's commitment to preserving the progress achieved. He said the Ministry of Finance will continue prioritising domestic revenue mobilisation, safeguarding essential social spending, and maintaining fiscal discipline to support sustainable economic development.

The latest recognition from the IMF reinforces growing international confidence in Sierra Leone's economic reform agenda and underscores the Government's efforts to restore macroeconomic stability while positioning the country for inclusive and sustainable growth.

 Sierra Leone Parliament Greenlights Major Hydropower Deal as Nation Pushes to End Electricity Shortages

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone - in a significant move aimed at tackling Sierra Leone's persistent energy challenges, Parliament has ratified amended agreements for the 120MW Bekongor III Hydroelectric Power Project (BHEPP), paving the way for expanded electricity generation, infrastructure development and job creation.

The agreements, approved during Parliament's sitting on Thursday, 9 July 2026, form part of the Government's broader strategy to improve energy access and support economic growth through increased investment in the power sector.

The House ratified three key agreements involving the Government of Sierra Leone, the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC), and OHDAV Power and Minerals (SL) Limited. These include amendments to the project's Power Purchase Agreement and Implementation Agreement, as well as an Interconnection Agreement to facilitate the transmission of electricity from the hydropower facility.

Presenting the agreements, Minister of Energy Cyril Arnold Grant described the amendments as crucial to improving the project's operational efficiency and accelerating efforts to address the country's electricity deficit.

"Sierra Leone is a power-deficient country, and these amendment agreements are intended to provide electricity for our people," the Minister told Parliament, adding that the revised agreement includes an electricity tariff of 9.6 US cents per kilowatt-hour.

Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Energy, Hon. Momoh Bockarie, said the project would play a vital role in meeting the country's growing electricity demand as businesses and industries continue to expand. He noted that Sierra Leone currently generates approximately 157.17 megawatts of electricity and projected that the hydropower project could create around 1,500 jobs for Sierra Leoneans.

Lawmakers from both the Government and Opposition welcomed the project but called for greater attention to affordability, transparency and equitable distribution of electricity.

Hon. Bernadette Wuyattaa Songa appealed for improved electricity infrastructure in Kailahun District, while Hon. Rebecca Yei Kamara urged the Government to ensure communities hosting hydroelectric projects directly benefit from the electricity produced in their areas.

Representing Kono District, Hon. Tamba Kellie raised concerns about the proposed tariff structure, warning that any additional costs could ultimately affect consumers. Hon. Musa Fofanah called on the Ministry of Energy to prioritise electricity supply to essential public institutions, including hospitals and police stations.

Opposition Leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo questioned the absence of the original agreement during the debate and sought clarification on the financial implications of the amendments and the progress made since Parliament first approved the project in 2023. However, he later withdrew a motion requesting that the full agreement be presented before ratification.

Closing the debate, Leader of Government Business Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma defended the ratification process, noting that all parliamentary documents were accessible through Members' digital tablets. He stressed the importance of effective parliamentary oversight during implementation and called for the development of a comprehensive National Energy Plan to guide Sierra Leone's long-term electricity sector.

Responding to issues raised by lawmakers, Minister Grant thanked Parliament for ratifying the agreements and pledged to work with relevant institutions to address concerns expressed during the debate.

Parliament Also Approves State-Owned Enterprises Governance Act

In a separate development, Parliament approved the State-Owned Enterprises and Governance Act, introducing a new legal framework to strengthen the governance, transparency and accountability of state-owned enterprises.

The legislation establishes clearer ownership and governance standards, promotes prudent management of public assets, enhances accountability, encourages fair competition and seeks to improve public confidence in the management of state resources.

The passage of both the hydropower agreements and the new governance law reflects Parliament's continued focus on strengthening Sierra Leone's energy sector and improving public sector governance to support sustainable national development

Source: Parliament of Sierra Leone 

 Kono Gets New Parliamentary Voice as Felicia Isata Wuleh Philips Takes Oath of Office

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone – Kono District has officially regained full representation in Parliament following the swearing-in of Hon. Felicia Isata Wuleh Philips, who succeeds the late Hon. Lucinda Finda Kellie in the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic.

Hon. Philips was sworn in on Thursday, 9 July 2026, during a formal ceremony in the Chamber of Parliament after the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone notified the House of her election in accordance with constitutional requirements.

Presiding over the ceremony, the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, declared Hon. Philips duly elected before directing the Clerk of Parliament to administer the Oath of Office. The process was conducted under Section 83 of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, together with Standing Order 1A.

Welcoming the new legislator, Speaker Thomas reminded her that her foremost responsibility is to represent the interests and aspirations of the people of Kono District. He encouraged her to approach the role with dedication, punctuality and a strong commitment to parliamentary service.

The Speaker also urged Hon. Philips to familiarise herself with the Constitution and the Standing Orders of Parliament, describing them as essential guides for effective participation in debates, legislation and parliamentary oversight.

"The work of Parliament is demanding, but it is also an honour to serve the people," Speaker Thomas said, encouraging the new MP to uphold integrity, remain accessible to her constituents and continue the work of her predecessor.

Following the ceremony, Hon. Philips was formally assigned the parliamentary seat previously occupied by the late Hon. Lucinda Finda Kellie and assumes office with immediate effect to serve the remainder of the current parliamentary term.

Members of Parliament from across the political divide welcomed the new legislator and expressed confidence that she would make a meaningful contribution to Parliament's legislative work and Sierra Leone's national development.

The swearing-in marks a seamless constitutional transition, ensuring that the people of Kono District continue to have representation in Sierra Leone's highest lawmaking body.

 Sierra Leone's Next Generation of Innovators Gets a Major Boost as UniPod Launches at Fourah Bay College

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone – Sierra Leone has taken a significant step towards strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship with the official launch of UniPod Sierra Leone at Fourah Bay College, creating a dedicated space where young innovators can transform bold ideas into practical solutions.

The launch brought together key partners, including the Government of Sierra Leone, the University of Sierra Leone, UNDP in Sierra Leone, and Africell Sierra Leone, reflecting a shared commitment to nurturing innovation, technology, and youth-led enterprise.

UniPod is designed to serve as a hub for creativity, collaboration, and business development, providing students and aspiring entrepreneurs with access to mentorship, skills development, networking opportunities, and resources needed to develop innovative solutions to national and global challenges.

The initiative is expected to empower a new generation of innovators capable of creating startups, generating employment, and contributing to Sierra Leone's growing digital economy.

The opening of UniPod signals more than the launch of a new facility—it represents an investment in the country's future, where young people are encouraged to innovate, solve problems, and drive sustainable economic growth.

As Sierra Leone continues to expand opportunities for youth and digital transformation, the new innovation hub at Fourah Bay College is expected to become a catalyst for groundbreaking ideas and entrepreneurial success.

For many young Sierra Leoneans, this marks the beginning of a new chapter—one where innovation is not just encouraged but supported with the tools and partnerships needed to thrive.

 Can Sierra Leone Finally Reduce Recurring Audit Queries? Finance Ministry and Parliament Join Forces

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone – In a renewed push to strengthen transparency and curb the misuse of public funds, the Government Audit Committee (GAC), the Internal Audit Directorate, and Parliament's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) have agreed to deepen collaboration to ensure audit recommendations are fully implemented and recurring financial irregularities are addressed.

The strategic meeting, held at Parliament, focused on improving compliance with audit recommendations and tackling issues affecting Sierra Leone's Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA) ratings.

Speaking during the engagement, Dr. Claudius Williams Tucker, Chairman of the Government Audit Committee, outlined the Committee's mandate to work with the Internal Audit Directorate in implementing recommendations arising from both internal and external audits across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Dr. Tucker warned that persistent audit queries continue to weaken the country's financial accountability performance. He identified the late submission of supporting documents, repeated breaches of internal control procedures, and the failure to apply sanctions against officials responsible for financial infractions as the main drivers of recurring audit issues highlighted in reports by the Audit Service Sierra Leone.

To improve accountability, he disclosed plans to introduce an automated audit-tracking system that will record and monitor audit findings, alongside the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). He also called on the Public Accounts Committee to actively monitor the system and support efforts to ensure audit recommendations are fully implemented.

Responding, Hon. Tawa Conteh, Chairman of Parliament's Public Accounts Committee, welcomed the initiative and pledged the Committee's full support in reducing audit irregularities across government institutions.

He noted that despite operational challenges, the Committee has strengthened its oversight role, revealing that PAC reports covering 2021, 2022 and 2023 have been completed, while work on reviewing the 2024 Auditor General's Report is already in progress.

Hon. Conteh expressed confidence that stronger cooperation between the two committees would improve compliance with financial regulations, enhance accountability, and reduce the number of recurring issues identified in future audit reports. He also advocated for regular engagements to sustain progress.

The meeting concluded with both committees agreeing to maintain closer collaboration, share expertise, and strengthen oversight mechanisms to improve public financial management and reinforce accountability across Sierra Leone's public sector.

The latest engagement reflects the government's broader commitment to improving financial governance, enhancing institutional accountability, and ensuring public resources are managed more efficiently and transparently.

Source: Finance Ministry