The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) and UNICEF held a strategic roundtable discussion at the MoPED Conference Hall on Tuesday, 4th February 2025, to assess the achievements of the Country Programme of Cooperation (2020-2024) and outline key interventions for the implementation of the newly approved Country Programme Document (CPD) 2025-2026. The discussion focused on evidence-based strategic planning, learning, and accountability to enhance outcomes for children, aligning with Sierra Leone’s National Medium-Term Development Plan (2024-2030).
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from Statistics Sierra Leone, the National Monitoring and Evaluation Agency (NAMEA), UNICEF’s Planning and Monitoring Unit, the Office of the President’s Performance Management and Service Delivery Directorate, and the Development Secretary’s Office.
Government and UNICEF Strengthen Collaboration
In his opening remarks, Peter Sam Kpakra, Development Secretary at MoPED, commended UNICEF for fostering continued dialogue between the organisation and the Government of Sierra Leone. He acknowledged UNICEF’s commitment to monitoring and improving child welfare and education in the country and emphasised the importance of government participation in shaping UNICEF’s work plan.
Dr. Robert Ndamobissi, UNICEF Representative in Sierra Leone, reaffirmed UNICEF’s mission to enhance child rights, welfare, and policy implementation in partnership with the government and other stakeholders. He stressed the need for accountability and transparency in addressing child-related issues. He commended Minister Kenyeh Barlay for her unwavering support in strengthening standards and professional operations in the sector.
Key Outcomes and Future Strategies
Foday Mansaray, Senior Economist at MoPED, presented an assessment of the Government-UNICEF Programme on Planning and Monitoring's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges. He highlighted key achievements and discussed recommendations to enhance the 2025-2026 CPD work plan.
Abdulram Sowa, Director of Performance Management and Service Delivery at the Office of the President, thanked UNICEF for its continued support and urged the organisation to engage further with the government’s delivery team under the Chief Minister’s Office to enhance coordinated efforts for national development.
Dr Jack Lamin, Director of the National Monitoring and Evaluation Agency, emphasised the need for robust and effective monitoring, evaluation, and program implementation policies. He stressed the importance of coordinated development initiatives to ensure impactful and measurable progress.
Long-Term Vision Beyond 2026
During the second presentation, a UNICEF representative outlined a strategic plan that extends beyond 2025-2026, with a forward-looking approach through 2030, to ensure sustainability and long-term impact.
In conclusion, stakeholders across various sectors emphasised the importance of data-driven planning to guide Sierra Leone’s development. They acknowledged the challenges but reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration, refining intervention strategies, and improving child-centred policies for a more effective UNICEF-Government partnership.
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