By Forum staff writer
The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has announced a series of major policy decisions approved by Cabinet, aimed at strengthening governance and accelerating development across critical sectors in Sierra Leone.
Speaking at a government briefing, Minister Bah said the reforms cover energy, Foreign Service, education, aviation, and digital finance, reflecting a broad effort to improve service delivery and promote economic growth. He stressed the importance of international partnerships and South-South Cooperation in driving these initiatives, particularly in sectors such as mining and energy where collaboration is expected to improve electricity supply and reduce costs.
One of the key approvals is an updated Foreign Service Bill that will be presented to Parliament. According to the minister, the proposed law seeks to enhance accountability in Sierra Leone’s overseas missions and align their financial management systems with national public finance regulations. It is also expected to improve transparency and efficiency in diplomatic operations.
Cabinet also approved a memorandum from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to realign and expand Sierra Leone’s diplomatic presence. This includes plans to establish new missions in Ireland and France while restructuring existing ones to improve coverage and service delivery.
In the aviation sector, Cabinet endorsed the Sierra Leone Airport Authority Bill, which aims to modernize the country’s aviation framework. The proposed legislation introduces updated standards in safety, governance, and private sector participation. Officials believe the reform will enable the airport authority to operate more efficiently and remain competitive.
The energy sector featured prominently in the Cabinet decisions, with approval granted for a special concession agreement with Aminata and Sons Limited. The agreement will support the development of fuel storage facilities and expand petroleum distribution across the country. Authorities say this will help stabilize fuel supply, reduce shortages, and encourage competition by increasing the number of service providers.
Minister Bah noted that the entry of new players into the petroleum sector is already improving service delivery and helping to cushion the effects of global supply disruptions. He added that plans to expand national storage capacity will further strengthen supply security and support price stability.
Cabinet also approved the extension of the ROPSEM agreement, which supports the establishment of large scale cement grinding plants in Kissy. The project is expected to boost local production, create employment opportunities, and reduce dependence on imported cement.
In the education sector, Cabinet approved a revised West African Examinations Council Bill aimed at improving the credibility and effectiveness of national examinations at both basic and senior secondary levels. The President has also called for a national dialogue to review the public examinations system and develop a stronger assessment framework.
To enhance transparency in higher education, Cabinet approved a digital payment policy requiring all student fees in public universities to be paid electronically. The move is expected to improve financial management and reduce the risk of fraud.
In addition, Cabinet endorsed a national data protection policy designed to safeguard personal information and strengthen digital governance systems.
Minister Bah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing reforms that improve institutional accountability, expand economic opportunities, and deliver better services to citizens across the country.
