By Esther Wright
The Parliament of Sierra Leone on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 unanimously ratified two critical agreements: the Millennium Challenge Compact between Sierra Leone and the United States and the Programme Implementation Agreement. These historic agreements, spearheaded by the Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, mark a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen its energy sector.
In an emergency sitting convened by President Julius Maada Bio, Members of Parliament thoroughly debated and unanimously approved the agreements, recognizing their vast potential for national development. President Bio highlighted the agreements as a transformative step towards improving Sierra Leone’s energy infrastructure, sparking hope for a brighter future.
During the debate, Hon. Ibrahim Barrie emphasized that the grant will be a significant boost to Sierra Leone’s energy sector. He underscored the importance of adhering to the recommendations attached to the Compact, particularly in ensuring free and fair elections. Hon. Ibrahim Barrie pointed out that these recommendations would bolster democratic governance and prevent election manipulation. He further expressed gratitude to the U.S. government for its support, stating that the Millennium Challenge Compact (MCC) would address many of the country’s pressing needs.
Hon. Hindolo Ngavao shared his optimism, stating that the MCC’s primary objectives are to reduce poverty and promote good governance. He applauded the people of Sierra Leone for supporting the fight against corruption, a crucial factor in qualifying for the MCC grant. Hindolo Ngavao also commended President Bio’s commitment to expanding energy access and assured the public that every dollar from the grant would be monitored to ensure proper usage.
Other MPs echoed similar sentiments. Hon. Tamba Kellie called for more focus on energy generation, while Hon. Ing. Fallah Tengbeh praised President Bio for his leadership, noting that the grant is unprecedented in Sierra Leone’s history. Hon. Ing. Fallah Tengbeh assured citizens that the project would improve energy distribution and reduce low-voltage issues across the country.
Hon. Peter Yamba Koroma, from Bombali, described the MCC grant as a transformative opportunity for Sierra Leone, particularly in the energy sector. He called for accountability in the implementation of the grant, warning that the nation must ensure transparency to avoid future setbacks.
Several MPs, including Hon. Tamba Johnny and Hon. Alpha Bah, voiced concerns about ensuring accountability in the administration of the funds. Bah noted the urgency with which the agreement was ratified, while Johnny emphasized the need to focus on energy generation alongside transmission and distribution.
Hon. Rebecca Y. Kamara highlighted the significance of gender empowerment in securing the MCC grant and praised the U.S. government for its continued support in renewable energy, education, and health sectors. She emphasized that the grant would not only benefit specific political parties but the entire nation.
Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara from Kambia District called for more investment in energy generation, stressing that Sierra Leone had long focused on energy distribution without adequately addressing the generation issue. He advocated for a more comprehensive approach to resolving the country’s energy challenges.
In closing, Hon. Daniel Brima Koroma, Deputy Opposition Leader, and Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina, Deputy Leader of Government Business, expressed their strong support for the agreements. Koroma commended the efforts of both the current and past governments in securing the MCC grant, while Lamina emphasized that the grant aligns with the Sierra Leone Development Plan, particularly in relation to the “Feed Salone” initiative.
The Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, acknowledged the bipartisan support for the agreement and praised President Bio’s leadership in the fight against corruption, which played a pivotal role in securing the $480 million grant. He called for all citizens to rally behind the implementation of the MCC Compact for the country’s benefit.
In a separate development, Parliament commenced debate on the Child Rights Act, 2024. This bill seeks to repeal and replace the 2007 Child Rights Act, incorporating provisions from the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. The bill aims to strengthen the rights and responsibilities of children and the state’s obligations towards their protection.
As Sierra Leone moves forward with the MCC Compact and other legislative developments, the country’s leadership remains focused on fostering national progress, ensuring transparency, and improving the lives of all citizens.
