By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a historic gathering at Freetown’s esteemed Bintumani Hotel on May 6, 2024, Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh spearheaded the launch of Sierra Leone’s National Human Capital Development Coordinating Framework. The event, which also included the commencement of the HCD+ Advocacy Training Workshop, underscored the nation’s commitment to fostering human capital growth and empowerment.
Vice President Juldeh Jalloh, esteemed for his dedication to national progress, delivered a stirring keynote address highlighting the significance of investing in the country’s human resources. The newly launched framework aims to enhance coordination and coherence across various sectors while leveraging data and technology to drive sustainable development.
In his address, the Vice President referenced President Julius Maada Bio’s 2018 manifesto, emphasizing the pivotal role of human capital development in propelling Sierra Leone forward. He reiterated the government’s unwavering dedication to investing in education, healthcare, food production, job creation, and renewable energy as catalysts for economic growth and societal advancement.
Acknowledging the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, alongside other key stakeholders and development partners such as the World Bank, EU, FCDO, and UNDP, the Vice President expressed gratitude for their support in advancing the nation’s development agenda.
Central to his message was the importance of inclusive policies and initiatives designed to empower citizens from all walks of life. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Sierra Leone demonstrated resilience through targeted interventions, including the Quick Action Economic Response Programme, aimed at bolstering youth and women empowerment initiatives.
Madam Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, echoed Vice President Jalloh’s sentiments, emphasizing the pivotal role of the Human Capital Development Coordination Framework in translating national development plans into actionable strategies. She highlighted education, health, and gender equality as key focus areas for the Government’s ongoing efforts.
Madam Fonda Koroma, CEO of Africa Human Capital Development Plus (HCD+), commended Sierra Leone’s strides in enhancing human capital development and pledged continued support for future endeavors. Stressing the importance of a robust coordination framework, she outlined Africa HCD+’s commitment to collaboration and advocacy to expedite development outcomes.
The two-day advocacy training workshop convened Government officials, development partners and civil society representatives to craft a comprehensive action plan for human capital development in Sierra Leone. Participants left the event optimistic about the collaborative efforts’ potential to drive transformative change and build a more prosperous future for all Sierra Leoneans.
