By Mabinty M. Kamara
In his address to the nation on the country’s 63rd independence anniversary, President Julius Maada Bio on Saturday 27th April acknowledged the current economic hardship coupled with the lack of basic social amenities like electricity supply that the country grapples with, while promising decisive actions to address the challenges.
“As we mark another Independence Day, we are confronted with significant economic challenges, including high food prices, elevated fuel costs and persistent energy shortages, that impact daily lives of every Sierra Leonean,” he said.
However, he highlighted his government’s commitment and actions across key sectors to address the challenges. “These actions are aimed at boosting our nation's growth and prosperity, and we are committed to their success,” he said adding that “our unwavering focus remains on our sworn duty to Sierra Leoneans and our collective determination to overcome challenges as they arise. Together, we can and will build a stronger and more prosperous Sierra Leone.”
On addressing the high cost of living, he said his government has recalibrated the fiscal and monetary policies to stabilize the exchange rate and reduce inflationary pressures. “From a peak of 55% in October 2023, inflation has declined to 42% as of February 2024. We anticipate that this downward trend will continue, enhancing the purchasing power of our people and effectively lowering the overall cost of living.”
Speaking on the energy crisis that has recently had a damning effect on his government due to power outages following the Turkish Karpowership’s withdrawal of service over nonpayment by the government, causing public outcry especially in the city, he said “we are proactively engaging with partners and stakeholders, including the private sector, to ensure the provision of stable and reliable electricity to sustain our nation's growth.
‘’Our Government has also invested significantly in energy subsidies since 2018 to help reduce the energy costs to citizens. As part of our commitment to an energy-secure future, we are advancing our Energy Mix Strategy, aiming for 75% of our energy portfolio to be derived from renewable sources. This move supports our vision for economic stability and underscores our dedication to environmental stewardship,” he went on.
The President also highlighted the Feed Salone Initiative which he said has a twin objective of achieving food self-sufficiency and sustainable economic growth.
He explained that the programme is designed to close the gap between the production of the country’s major staple foods and local demand, increase export earnings, create employment, and establish a resilient food system.
The president therefore encouraged Sierra Leoneans to embrace peace for the good of the nation, saying that the freedom that the citizens enjoy is a result of the struggles and sacrifices of their forefathers. “We must never take these freedoms for granted, for they were bought with the sweat and blood of those who came before us,” he said.
He also pledged his services to all and said he will ensure the security of all Sierra Leoneans regardless of anything. “We are firmly committed to peace. It is the bedrock of our democratic progress, and we believe democracy will prevail,” he assured.
As part of the Independence Celebration, the president declared Friday 26th April as a day for Muslims to observe national prayers for the development of the country. It was followed by an interfaith prayer session at State House on Saturday 27th April led by the President and the First Lady Fatima Bio. Sunday 28th April witnessed the Christian service.
On April 27, 1961, Sierra Leone achieved a significant milestone as it gained independence from British colonial rule, embarking on a journey of self-determination and progress. Under the leadership of Sir Milton Margai, the nation embraced its newfound freedom with optimism and resolve, laying the foundation for a society built on the principles of democracy and inclusivity.
Copyright © 2024 Politico (29/04/24)
