Parliament Passes into Law the 2025 Investment Framework Agreement Act.

The Parliament of Sierra Leone has passed into Law the Investment Framework Agreement Act of 2025, marking a significant milestone in the country's commitment to sustainable economic development. The Bill was passed following an extensive debate and the adoption of several key amendments.

The legislation ratifies the Investment Framework Agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and Sherbro Alliance Partnership Limited for the development of Sherbro Island, addressing various provisions related to infrastructure, investment, and local development.

Presenting the Bill, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., underscored its importance, noting that it comprises eight comprehensive sections outlining the legal, economic, and developmental foundations of the agreement. He emphasized that the initiative would unlock long-term socio-economic benefits for Sherbro Island and the country as a whole.

During deliberations, Hon. Sulaiman Marry Conteh (Western Area) described the Bill as straightforward and forward-looking, with the potential to significantly boost national development.

However, Hon. Joseph Williams-Lamin from Bo District raised concerns about whether local communities had been adequately informed and engaged about the project.

Responding to this, Hon. Moses Edwin from Bonthe District assured the House that stakeholders in Bonthe had been fully briefed. He highlighted the inclusion of the Bonthe Trust Fund as a major benefit to the local population, describing the initiative as timely and transformative for one of the country’s most underserved regions.

Hon. Quintin Salia-Konneh (Kailahun District) voiced support for the agreement but echoed the need for continued community consultation and inclusive implementation.

Adding her voice, Hon. Emelia L. Tongi (Kailahun District) hailed the Bill as one of the most promising pieces of legislation presented to Parliament, stressing its potential to enhance investor confidence and drive national progress.

Hon. Musa Fofanah expressed optimism about the project, commending the government for securing such a landmark investment and highlighting the strategic value of the Trust Fund.

Hon. Rebecca Y. Kamara (Kono District) welcomed the agreement, likening the island’s potential to that of Cyprus, and encouraged Sierra Leoneans to embrace the vision of island-based development.

Hon. Bash Kamara (Bo District) noted that Sherbro Island remains one of Sierra Leone's least developed areas. He welcomed the initiative as a step towards realizing the island’s untapped tourism potential.

In closing, the Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, reaffirmed the Government's unwavering support for the Bill. He assured Parliament that all necessary mechanisms would be put in place to ensure its smooth implementation and maximize its developmental impact.

By: Hassan Bangura, Correspondent – SLENA

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