The Ministry of Finance organized a formal dinner at the Lagoonda Complex in Aberdeen, Freetown, to welcome Dr. Elsiddig Mohamed Rahma, the newly appointed Executive Director of the African Development Bank (AfDB). The event was attended by senior government officials, development partners, and stakeholders, highlighting Sierra Leone’s ongoing partnership with the AfDB.
Minister of Planning and Economic Development Kenyeh Barlay, who previously served as an Executive Director at the AfDB, congratulated Dr. Rahma on his new role. She offered guidance for his tenure and stressed the value of sustained collaboration between Sierra Leone and the Bank. “She admonished and offered valuable counsel to the new Executive Director as he assumes his responsibilities, encouraging him to remain steadfast in advancing the Bank’s development mandate,” said Minister Barlay. She also thanked Dr. Rahma for prioritizing engagement with Sierra Leone early in his term.
Minister of Finance Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura welcomed Dr. Rahma to Sierra Leone and noted the positive impact of AfDB-supported projects across critical sectors that contribute to national growth. He called for continued support from the Bank to help advance Sierra Leone’s development agenda. “He highlighted the significant impact of the African Development Bank’s portfolio in the country, particularly across critical sectors supporting national growth and development,” said Minister Bangura.
Financial Secretary Matthew Dingie chaired the occasion and emphasized how partnerships with organizations like AfDB and World Bank are important for public financial management and financing development initiatives in Sierra Leone. He acknowledged contributions from both institutions and recognized the presence of World Bank Country Director Mr. Abdul as a sign of strong cooperation.
Dr. Elsiddig Mohamed Rahma thanked Sierra Leone’s government and people for their hospitality. He stated: “He reaffirmed his strong commitment to serving all five countries under his constituency — Sierra Leone, Ghana, Liberia, The Gambia, and Sudan — with dedication and balance.” Dr. Rahma explained that he intentionally began his official engagements with Sierra Leone due to its importance within his constituency.
World Bank Country Director Mr. Abdul congratulated Dr. Rahma on his appointment and pledged continued support from the World Bank toward Sierra Leone’s development goals while encouraging collaboration among international partners.
The dinner provided an opportunity for government officials and international partners to strengthen relationships focused on advancing socio-economic progress in Sierra Leone.