By Kandeh Sesay
On Friday, July 26, 2024, the Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, and United Nations Resident Coordinator Saraphine Wakana officially launched the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for 2024-2030. The event was held at the Bintumani International Conference Centre in Freetown and was attended by development partners, ambassadors, high commissioners, government ministers, civil society organizations (CSOs), the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, the Children Forum, and the National Farmers’ Association.
The UNSDCF is a strategic five-year plan designed to align with and support Sierra Leone’s national development priorities. In his keynote address, Chief Minister Sengeh emphasized that the framework focuses on three key priorities: food systems, natural resource management and climate change, and human capital, essential services, and employment. He underscored the long-standing relationship between Sierra Leone and the UN, stating that the cooperation reaffirms their enduring partnership and aims to further cement their relationship with an ambitious and transformative agenda.
“This framework is not just a document; it is a guiding principle and testament to our collective cooperation, outlining a roadmap to a future where every Sierra Leonean can realize their full potential,” said Dr. Sengeh. He assured that the government is committed to allocating human, financial, and institutional resources to address inequalities affecting women, children, persons with disabilities, and marginalized groups. The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of inclusion and equality within the government and among development partners.
UN Resident Coordinator Saraphine Wakana highlighted the significance of collaboration among all stakeholders for the successful implementation of the UNSDCF. She reiterated the UN’s commitment to working closely with the Sierra Leonean government, development partners, the private sector, and CSOs to achieve the framework’s goals inclusively.
Minister of Planning and Economic Development Kenyeh Barley praised the UNSDCF launch as the start of a crucial journey, aligning with Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan, the Big Five Game Changer, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals for 2025-2030. She noted that the process was inclusive, incorporating priorities from stakeholders across all districts.
The event concluded with the signing of the UNSDCF 2024-2030, symbolizing the collaborative effort between the UN and Sierra Leone to achieve sustainable development and improve the nation’s future.
