By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Minister of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), Chernor Bah, commonly known as C. Bah, has confirmed Sierra Leone’s approval for the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact by the United States Government. Speaking during a live interview on Epic Radio, Minister Bah described the development as a milestone for the country, emphasizing the positive impact the compact would have on the lives of Sierra Leoneans.
The MCC Compact, which is a grant-based initiative by the U.S. Government, is awarded to countries that demonstrate a strong commitment to good governance, economic freedom, and investment in people. Sierra Leone’s qualification and eventual approval mark a major diplomatic and developmental achievement.
During the interview, Minister Bah credited the achievement to President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership, which he described as decisive, reform-driven, and focused on national transformation.
“This is a proud moment for Sierra Leone. The MCC Compact is not just about money—it’s a statement of trust in our country’s direction and governance under President Bio,” Bah said.
He further explained that the compact’s support would touch several critical areas of the country’s economy, with a particular focus on electricity and road infrastructure. These sectors, he noted, are essential to economic growth, job creation, and improving the quality of life for Sierra Leoneans across the board.
“For years, electricity has been a challenge for many communities. With this support, we can finally address long-standing issues and bring reliable power to homes, schools, health centres, and businesses,” Bah stated.
He added that improvements in road infrastructure wuld also reduce transportation costs, open up markets for farmers and traders, and ease movement between districts and regions. According to the minister, these benefits align with the government’s national development plan and President Bio’s Big Five Game Changers initiative.
Minister Bah emphasized that the compact is a reward for institutional reforms and anti-corruption measures the government has implemented over the years. “This didn’t just happen overnight. It’s the result of years of hard work, accountability, and transparency. The world has taken notice, and we are now reaping the benefits,” he said.
He urged citizens to see the compact not only as a financial opportunity but also as a challenge to continue holding leadership accountable and supporting national progress. “Development is not only the responsibility of government. Every Sierra Leonean has a role to play. The MCC Compact is proof that when we work together, we can attract global partnerships and improve lives.”
Minister Bah concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to managing the compact transparently and delivering results that citizens can feel and trust. “This compact is for the people. We will ensure that every cent is used for the benefit of Sierra Leoneans,” he said.
The MCC Compact is expected to begin implementation shortly, following detailed planning and coordination between Sierra Leonean authorities and U.S. partners.
