President Julius Maada Bio has reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to deepening Sierra Leone’s strategic partnership with the World Bank Group during a courtesy meeting with the Bank’s Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Ousmane Diagana, and his delegation at State House in Freetown on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

During the meeting, Finance Minister Karefa Kargbo welcomed the World Bank delegation and expressed appreciation for the institution’s continued support to Sierra Leone. He highlighted progress made through the longstanding partnership and referenced the Country Partnership Framework, which focuses on key national priorities including expanding access to energy, developing human capital and strengthening infrastructure.

Speaking on behalf of the World Bank Group, Diagana reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development agenda and described the country as an important partner. He also commended President Bio for his leadership as former Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, as well as his commitment to Mission 300, which seeks to expand electricity access across Africa.

President Bio described the relationship between Sierra Leone and the World Bank as a dependable and impactful partnership, noting that World Bank-supported projects have delivered tangible benefits to communities across the country.

The President specifically highlighted infrastructure investments, including the construction of bridges, which he said have improved connectivity, strengthened links between communities and facilitated economic and social activities.

President Bio reaffirmed his determination to further strengthen cooperation with the World Bank Group and promote strategic investments capable of delivering measurable and lasting improvements in the lives of Sierra Leoneans.

The engagement ultimately reaffirmed the shared commitment of the Government of Sierra Leone and the World Bank Group to strengthening development cooperation, expanding opportunities and supporting transformative investments aimed at sustainable national development.