Minister Barlay Launches Local Council Development Plans
On November 15, 2024, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Kenyeh Barlay, launched the Local Council Development Plans for six districts in Sierra Leone. Developed through the Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) under the USAID-funded BASE project, these plans aim to boost governance and community empowerment in Karene, Moyamba, Falaba, Koidu New Sembehun, Tonkolili, and Kono.
At the launch held in Freetown, Minister Barlay praised IGR’s leadership and USAID’s support in aligning the plans with the Medium-Term National Development Plan and the government’s Big Five Agenda. She emphasized the need for effective implementation to ensure tangible benefits for local communities.
IGR Executive Director Andrew Lavali highlighted the plans as a milestone in grassroots governance, offering tailored templates for councils to address unique community needs. Professor Fredline McCormack-Hale, Head of Research at IGR, outlined project goals, including citizen participation, women’s inclusion, and enhanced local accountability.
The event included discussions on implementing district priorities, with Minister Barlay reaffirming the government’s support for local councils to drive meaningful change across Sierra Leone.
