By George M.O. Wiliams
Sierra Leone – The National Water Resources Management Agency (NWRMA) has entered a new era of leadership as Ing. Pierre Palmer officially took over as Director General, succeeding Junisa Patrick Bangali Esq. The formal handover ceremony was held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the Agency’s Conference Room, witnessed by management, staff, and key stakeholders.
The Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Dr. Sao-Kpato Hannah Isatta Macarthy, presided over the event, underscoring the importance of continuity, accountability, and renewed commitment to effective service delivery in the sector.
In his maiden address, Ing. Palmer expressed gratitude to His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and Minister Macarthy for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the Agency. He pledged to align NWRMA’s work with the country’s broader development agenda, emphasizing strategic leadership, innovation, and collaboration.
“I am counting on the support of every staff,” Palmer said. “Together, we will drive the Agency towards greater efficiency and national impact.”
The new Director General commended his predecessor for laying a solid institutional foundation, noting that he intends to build upon this legacy. Drawing from his extensive experience in the water sector, Palmer assured stakeholders of his readiness to confront challenges and strengthen the Agency’s role in managing Sierra Leone’s water resources.
He stressed the importance of teamwork and unity, highlighting that effective service delivery can only be achieved through collective responsibility.
In her keynote remarks, Minister Macarthy reminded staff of the President’s constitutional authority to appoint or replace officials in the interest of national development. She urged full cooperation with Ing. Palmer, stressing that collective commitment is essential to fulfilling NWRMA’s mandate.
With the transition complete, stakeholders view Ing. Palmer’s appointment as a pivotal moment for the Agency. His leadership is expected to drive reforms, enhance efficiency, and strengthen national impact in water resource management.