By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In his New Year’s Day address on January 1, 2025, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio conveyed a message of hope, gratitude and determination, emphasizing the Government’s commitment to advancing Sierra Leone’s development in 2025.
Opening his address, President Bio expressed his gratitude and optimism as the nation enters the New Year. He reflected on the challenges of the past year, but also highlighted the resilience and unwavering spirit of Sierra Leoneans, from bustling urban centers like Freetown to rural communities such as Falaba and Bonthe.
“This year is a time for bold action,” the President declared, underscoring the importance of turning challenges into opportunities. He reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to implementing the Medium-Term National Development Plan 2024-2030, which aims for irreversible progress through five key game-changing initiatives. These initiatives are expected to foster job creation, support local businesses and drive sustainable economic growth, ensuring a brighter future for all citizens.
As part of the Government’s plan for economic growth, President Bio emphasized the need to reduce inflation and address the global economic challenges impacting Sierra Leone. He assured the public that the Government would continue to manage inflation, maintain stable food and fuel prices and prioritize agricultural productivity and the growth of the mining and manufacturing sectors.
One of the key priorities for 2025, according to the President, is meeting the growing energy demand in Sierra Leone. President Bio highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the nation’s energy mix, including the pursuit of renewable energy partnerships and the significant US$480 million MCC Compact, which aims to enhance energy access and reliability across the country.
The President also addressed the looming threat of climate change, recognizing its impacts on agriculture, water, energy and infrastructure. He outlined Government initiatives to mitigate and adapt to climate change, including strengthening Sierra Leone’s environmental policies and seeking global climate financing to support sustainable development.
In the realm of education, President Bio pledged continued investment in quality education, teacher training and the modernization of schools. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to providing educational opportunities for youth, equipping them with skills for future employment and entrepreneurship.
Healthcare also featured prominently in the President’s address. He announced plans to expand access to healthcare services, with a particular focus on maternal and child health, ensuring that every Sierra Leonean can receive the care they need for a healthier future.
President Bio further emphasized the importance of good governance, unity and transparency. He called on all Sierra Leoneans to work together to uphold democracy, resist divisiveness and contribute to the nation’s prosperity. Highlighting the significance of the upcoming Nationwide Population and Housing Census, President Bio stressed that the data collected would be crucial in shaping future development policies and achieving the global Sustainable Development Goals.
Internationally, President Bio emphasized Sierra Leone’s role in fostering global peace and security and expressed hopes for deeper development cooperation, bilateral trade and technical support in 2025.
Concluding his address, President Bio urged all Sierra Leoneans to join hands in building the nation. He reminded citizens that the journey toward sustainable progress is a collective effort and with determination, unity and hard work, Sierra Leone can overcome challenges and achieve transformative success.
“We will make 2025 a year to remember – a year when Sierra Leone’s story of hope and success inspires the world,” he said, wishing all Sierra Leoneans, both at home and abroad, a prosperous New Year.
President Bio extended his best wishes to the people of Sierra Leone: “May this year bring peace to our homes, progress to our communities and prosperity to our nation. May God bless you and may God bless the Republic of Sierra Leone.”
