The Sierra Leone delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to democracy, regional integration, climate action and sustainable development during the First Ordinary Session of the regional parliament in Abuja.
Presenting Sierra Leone’s country report on behalf of the delegation, Saa Emerson Lamina told the plenary that the country had made notable progress in governance, peacebuilding, climate resilience and implementation of ECOWAS programmes between November 2025 and April 2026.
The session was chaired by Hadja Memounatou Ibrahima.
Hon. Lamina said Sierra Leone’s political environment continues to promote pluralism and inclusive governance following the National Unity Agreement signed between the Government and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC). He added that constitutional and electoral reforms are ongoing to improve transparency, strengthen voter registration systems and enhance democratic participation ahead of the 2028 general elections.
On governance and rule of law, the report highlighted the implementation of the Justice Sector Reform Strategy 2024–2030 and the operationalisation of the Criminal Procedure Act 2024. The delegation also commended the efforts of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion and the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone in preventing political violence and promoting national dialogue.
The report further pointed to improvements in human rights and civil liberties, including increased access to justice, enhanced press freedom, enforcement of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024 and government interventions aimed at reducing sexual and gender-based violence.
Addressing climate change and environmental sustainability, Hon. Lamina described climate change as one of the major challenges facing Sierra Leone, despite the country’s low greenhouse gas emissions. He said government interventions under the “Feed Salone” initiative are focused on boosting food security through mechanised agriculture, private sector participation and import substitution.
The presentation also outlined efforts in disaster preparedness, renewable energy expansion, environmental protection and sustainable mining practices as part of Sierra Leone’s climate adaptation strategy.
On regional integration and ECOWAS commitments, the delegation disclosed that Sierra Leone remains fully compliant with the ECOWAS Community Levy and has recorded progress on key regional projects, including completion of the ECOWAS Logistics Depot in Lungi and the ongoing construction of the Wai Border Market in Pujehun District.
The report also stated that Sierra Leone has successfully implemented the ECOWAS Free Roaming Regulation with Liberia, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, reducing communication costs and improving regional connectivity.
Concluding the presentation, the Sierra Leone delegation reaffirmed the country’s support for ECOWAS ideals in promoting democracy, peace, security and economic cooperation across West Africa.
