The Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Mrs Nabila Farida Tunis, has received the report of a comprehensive Management and Functional Review (MRF) conducted by the Public Sector Reform Unit (PSRU) for the effective functioning of the Ministry.
In her address, the Minister expressed gratitude to PSRU for their commendable efforts and insightful analysis into the report, stating that for any organization to operate efficiently, fulfil its mandates and catalyse transformative progress, periodic assessment should be conducted on its functions, structure, management systems and external partnerships.
The Minister was delighted to realize that numerous suggestions were taken on board by the PSRU Review Team, especially the expansion of the Ministry’s structure and other critical aspects such as creativity, innovation, resource mobilization amongst others.
The review, she said, includes avenues for staff progression and growth adding that, the inclusion of Women in Tourism unit, which in her words is critical for engagement at the continental and other levels.
She commended staff of the ministry for their invaluable support towards the process and extolled PSRU for their participatory research approach which according to her, does not only aligned public institutions with international standards and mandates, but also shaped them in accordance with the vision and aspirations of staff members.
Minister Tunis called on PSRU to conduct a comprehensive MFR for all the institutions that falls within her purview to ensure that delivery is streamline and effective.
The Tourism Minister said, while some of the recommendations can be swiftly implemented, others would necessitate meticulous planning and procedural adherence. “I will set up a committee that will work closely with PSRU to fully implement the recommendations contained in the report. I encourage all of you to demonstrate unwavering commitment towards the implementation of all the recommendations”, she added.
The Director of PSRU, Mr. Sulaiman Phoray-Musa, acclaimed the Minister for her astute leadership and political will towards the process pointing out that her commitment and dedication contributed a long way towards the completion of the MFR report within record time.
He said change always necessitated resistance but was full of admiration for the Minister for her courage and boldness in accepting change. “If we can change this Ministry, then Sierra Leone is open to development,” he said. Adding that, it is the Tourism sector that would open Sierra Leone to foreign direct investment.
Mr. Phoray-Musa said the Minister has taken a brave step to reposition the ministry in tandem with the aspirations of H. E. President Julius Maada Bio in transforming Sierra Leone.
The Director of Management Services, Mr. Patrick Kawa, said the essence of the Management and Functional Review is not to disadvantaged or discouraged staff members but to ensure that systems and processes are improved for the productivity and better functioning of the Ministry.
The Permanent Secretary, Mr Kwame Yankson, who chaired the ceremony, said that, the MFR would bring forth positive changes in the Ministry.
