By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, 8 July 2025 — In its weekly Government Press Conference, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education convened cabinet ministers and institutional leaders to spotlight major strides in Sierra Leone’s national development agenda. Held at the Ministry’s headquarters, the press briefing emphasized inclusive policy implementation, public sector accountability, and infrastructure transformation under President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership.
Information Minister Chernor Bah Commends Civic Consistency, Launches $180M WASH Programme
Minister Bah opened the session by reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to transparency and consistency, noting that for two consecutive years, the weekly government briefings have never missed a session. He extended gratitude to Volunteer Service Overseas (VSO) for providing sign language interpretation, reinforcing the government’s inclusivity efforts.
He also highlighted the official launch of the Water Security and WASH Access Project, a $180 million initiative funded by the World Bank. Unveiled by President Bio earlier that day, the project targets equitable water supply and sanitation services nationwide.
Economic Growth Forecasted as Positive in Country Focus Report 2025
According to Minister Bah, the Sierra Leone Country Focus Report 2025 projects economic growth at 4.4% in 2025 and 4.5% in 2026, attributed to robust public policies supporting agriculture, mining, and service sectors. These forecasts align with President Bio’s ongoing mission to secure inclusive, stable livelihoods for all Sierra Leoneans.
Social Welfare Ministry Expands Drug Rehabilitation and Disability Empowerment
Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, shared progress on combating substance abuse, including the establishment of two rehabilitation centers—one in Hastings and another in Bo. With over 50 successful rehabilitations, the program marks a turning point in youth recovery and reintegration efforts.
She also announced the upcoming launch of a $1 million Economic Empowerment Project for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), scheduled for 11 July 2025, which will fund the renovation and development of training centers nationwide.
PRIDE Strategy Introduced for National Disability Inclusion
Chief Commissioner Brima Abdulai Sheriff of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities unveiled the PRIDE Strategy—a framework built on Policy Engagements, Resilience, Inclusion, Dignity, and Empowerment. DSTI will train over 1,000 persons with disabilities in technical skills aimed at reshaping livelihoods and enhancing capacity.
Black Johnson Fish Harbour Project
Minister of Fisheries Princess Dugba confirmed the preservation of the $55 million Chinese grant for the Fish Harbour Project at Black Johnson, with construction now slated to start in September 2025. She credited diplomatic engagement with the Chinese Embassy for sustaining the original project scope.
Additionally, a new Export Certification Portal will be launched on 11 July 2025, providing zero-tariff market access to China for Sierra Leone’s fishing communities.
Acting Director of Fisheries, Sheku Sei, outlined the future Fish Harbour’s infrastructure—featuring breakwater systems, cold storage, and processing facilities. The project is forecasted to boost fisheries revenue to $59 million annually, a major leap from the current $10 million.