By Fatima Kpaka
FREETOWN – The Ministry of Finance has concluded a two‑week workshop to update Sierra Leone’s Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA) and Medium‑Term Debt Strategy (MTDS), aimed at strengthening the country’s debt management framework and aligning borrowing decisions with sustainable economic growth.
The sessions, held at Leisure Lodge in Aberdeen, ended on Friday, 24 July 2026, with Deputy Director of Public Debt Santigie Charles Conteh presenting indicators used to assess debt sustainability. He disclosed that Sierra Leone’s debt‑carrying capacity has improved from “weak” to “medium” in the latest review, though the country must maintain this status for two consecutive DSA cycles before it can be officially reclassified.
Conteh emphasized that sustaining progress requires increased domestic revenue mobilization, prudent fiscal spending, stronger Public‑Private Partnership (PPP) frameworks, and economic diversification. He noted that the updated DSA and MTDS will guide government borrowing patterns, ensuring resources are directed to critical sectors such as education, health, and infrastructure rather than being consumed by debt repayments.
The National Coordinator of the Budget Advocacy Network (BAN), Abu Bakarr Kamara, commended the Ministry for involving civil society and other stakeholders in the process. He stressed that both documents are essential for macroeconomic stability and urged government to strengthen accountability, reduce tax exemptions, and improve digital revenue collection systems.
Participants included representatives from the Bank of Sierra Leone, Statistics Sierra Leone, the National Revenue Authority, the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, the Accountant General’s Department, civil society organizations, and staff of the Ministry of Finance.
Officials said the updated DSA and MTDS will help ensure responsible borrowing, improve fiscal discipline, and create conditions for sustainable growth and better public service delivery.