By Ibrahim Kabba Turay
United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sierra Leone, Seraphine Wakana, has engaged stakeholders in Makeni City on the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework’s blueprint for UN development programmes in Sierra Leone, for the period 2025-2030.
The engagement was done on Wednesday, 31st January, 2024, at the Wusum Hotel in Makeni.
In her opening remarks, Seraphine Wakan reflected on the launch of the Sierra Leone’s Medium Term National Development Plan, a ceremony she was delighted to be part of.
She said the UN was also embarking on a journey of collective consultation and visioning for the Development of the UN next United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.
She said the gathering signified a pivotal moment for the United Nations and the Government and people of Sierra Leone, as they come together to shape the blueprint for UN development programmes in Sierra Leone for the period 2025-2030.
“Our strength lies in our diversity, and this consultation is a testament to our commitment to inclusivity. We have representatives from various sectors, communities, and backgrounds; each is expected to bring unique perspectives that will enrich the content of our cooperation framework,” she emphasised
Acknowledging diversity, she said “we recognise the importance of ensuring that every voice, including those that are on the verge of being left behind, is heard, and every perspective considered. Inclusivity is at the heart of our efforts.
She continued that they will ensure that their next cooperation framework addresses the needs of all our citizens.
“Leaving no one behind, our aim is to create an environment where every individual, regardless of background or circumstance, can contribute to and benefit from our collective growth,” she assured.
She added that their goal is not merely to contribute to drafting of a document but to articulating their shared aspirations, and the next cooperation framework is not going to be a static document; rather it will be a living testament to their commitment to progress, equity, and sustainable development.
She said the document will serve as reference document that will guide them through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, recognising that the global economic situation and geopolitical risks have placed extreme pressure on the country’s financial situation, clouded by headwinds from monetary tightening, weak global trade, and investment, and rising debt vulnerabilities.
“Our cooperation framework must also reflect our commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation of the country’s precious natural resources, to ensure we do not compromise the well-being of future generations,” she said.
She continued that the success of their cooperation framework will largely depend on effective collaboration among government, the UN, the public and private sectors and civil society.
She noted that they must foster an environment where innovation, entrepreneurship, and responsible business practices thrive.
The Mayor of the Makeni City, Abubakarr Kamara, expressed his delight to be part of the stakeholder consultation that will determine the new package of activities and roadmap of the UN in Sierra Leone.
He thanked President Bio for providing the space for the UN to work in the country for the benefit of the citizens.
He also expressed delight to providing inputs into the Mid-Term National Development Plan of the United Nations Programmes for Sierra Leone, which will be prioritised for their next interventions to the different cities, towns, villages and communities in Sierra Leone.
He further stated that he will ensure, as Mayor of Makeni City, to support the government and the UN in the development of the document for the betterment of the country.
