President Julius Maada Bio Unveils Sierra Leone’s Ambitious Medium-Term National Development Plan for 2024–2030
Freetown, January 30, 2024 – His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, accompanied by the First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, officially launchedthe country’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) for the period 2024 to 2030. The historic ceremony took place at the Freetown International Conference Centre and marked a defining moment in Sierra Leone’s journey toward unparalleled prosperity and progress.
Under the theme “A Transformative Acceleration Agenda for Food Security, Human Capital Development, and Job Creation,” President Bio’s visionary plan aims to propel the nation forward by addressing critical challenges and fostering sustainable growth. Here are the highlights of the plan:
- Big Five Game Changers: President Bio’s medium-term national development plan centers around five strategic initiatives, aptly named the “Big Five Game Changers.” These initiatives are poised to revolutionize Sierra Leone’s trajectory and enhance the well-being of its citizens. They encompass areas crucial for national advancement:
- Food Security: The plan prioritizes measures to achieve food self-sufficiency by 2030. Sierra Leone aims to bolster agricultural productivity, enhance value chains, and ensure reliable access to nutritious food for all.
- Human Capital Development: Recognizing that people are the country’s greatest asset, the plan focuses on education, healthcare, and skills development. By investing in human capital, Sierra Leone aims to create a skilled and healthy workforce ready to contribute to the nation’s growth.
- Job Creation: President Bio envisions a Sierra Leone where at least half a million new jobs are generated for youth by 2030. These jobs will span both skilled and unskilled roles, fostering economic empowerment and reducing unemployment.
- Cashless Economy and Financial Inclusion: The plan aims to promote a vibrant cashless economy, increase financial inclusion, and facilitate e-government services. By leveraging technology, Sierra Leone seeks to enhance efficiency and accessibility in financial transactions.
- Efficient Public Administration: President Bio emphasizes the need for an efficient and innovative public administration system. Streamlining processes, improving service delivery, and ensuring transparency are key components of this initiative.
- Democracy Thrives with Real Development: President Bio underscored that democracy flourishes when supported by tangible development. The MTNDP serves as the backbone of Sierra Leonean society, addressing aspirations and challenges alike. Guided by principles of equity, justice, and sustainability, the government aims to empower its people and dismantle barriers.
- Unity and Inclusivity: The President emphasized the vital role of peace and unity in achieving development goals. Sierra Leone’s successor National Development Plan embodies inclusivity, green practices, and middle-income aspirations by 2039.
- Vision for Progress: President Bio’s vision extends beyond mere numbers; it envisions a Sierra Leone where innovation, opportunity, and prosperity thrive. By aligning efforts across all levels of government, the nation aims to transform economic challenges into havens of opportunity.
In closing, President Bio expressed unwavering belief in the extraordinary potential of Sierra Leoneans to rise above adversity and shape their destiny. The MTNDP represents a collective commitment to a brighter future, where every citizen contributes to the nation’s success