By Sallieu S. Kanu
November 25, 2025: The Government of Sierra Leone is to present what senior officials describe as “one of the most pro-people budgets in recent years,” as the Minister of Finance prepares to lay the 2026 National Budget and Finance Bill before Parliament.
Focus on Services, Jobs, and Stability
According to Ministry of Finance documents, the budget is designed to strengthen basic service delivery, support job creation, and maintain macroeconomic stability amid global uncertainty and regional shocks affecting West African economies.
Despite these challenges, recent assessments show Sierra Leone recording modest economic growth, a stable currency, and improving fiscal stability. Officials say these gains place the country “at par, and sometimes ahead” of several ECOWAS nations facing similar pressures.
Measures to Ease Cost of Living
The 2026 Finance Bill proposes bold measures to reduce household expenses. Key among them is the zero-rating of LPG gas, cooking stoves, solar panels, and home energy systems, making clean cooking and renewable energy more affordable.
“This is a direct relief for households,” a senior Ministry of Finance official said. “It’s pro-poor, pro-women, and pro-health.”
At the same time, the Bill introduces higher customs duties on imported tomato paste, bottled water, ketchup, and maggi cubes. The policy is aimed at protecting local manufacturers from cheap imports and boosting job creation for Sierra Leoneans.
Revenue Mobilization and IMF Commitments
To meet commitments under the IMF-supported programme, the budget targets NLe 2.85 billion in additional revenue, primarily through improved compliance, reduced leakages, and fairer tax adjustments.
Public Engagement and Transparency
The Ministry of Information is expected to roll out a nationwide public engagement plan alongside the budget announcement. The campaign will focus on clarity, transparency, and fact-checking to ensure citizens understand the measures and their impact.