By Expo Times Correspondent

The Ministry of Public Administration and Political Affairs has officially launched the strategic roadmap for public sector reforms. The event was held on Thursday December 12th, 2024 at the Foreign Service Academy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs at Tower Hill in Freetown.

Chairman of the event Amb. Sullay Daramy said that reforming the sector of public service is very critical and a necessary activity.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration welcomed all and sundry and assured of fruitful deliberations.

World Bank Country Manager said that the launch is a step in the right direction and assured that the World Bank is committed to support public service reforms, adding that the political will is very important to realize objectives. He added that stakeholder engagement is also crucial in making sure that the Ministry is able to deliver on its mandate, noting that embracing digital transformation is another important step.

The UN Resident Coordinator expressed gratitude to teams in getting the country to what she described as a significant points. She said that it was vital to overcome deficiencies, adding that her office was honoured to support the initiative. She said that strengthening institutional frameworks is also equally important, noting that the strategic plan should be seen as a vision for the future, urging government to showcase laudable leadership.

Chairman, Public Service Commission (PSC) thanked the ministry and team for what he described as a welcoming strategic plan. He said that a service oriented public service was necessary in actualizing the reform. He said that a skilled public service that will equip public servants is equally very crucial. He added that revamping the public service is also very necessary. He called for robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks.

Development Secretary, Ministry of Planning and Economic Development who delivered a statement on behalf of the Minister said that one of the big five game changers is the transformation of the public sector, adding that enhancing efficiency in service delivery is crucial in such trajectory. He said that the reform should be regarded as an operational upgrade. He added that there’s need to build robust public sectors and institutions.

Minister of Public Administration and Political Affairs said that the roadmap launch has been a long journey and thus described it as a day of recognition. He said that with the support of the leadership of the public service, he’s been able to work with all sectors in making things work. He acknowledged all and sundry and thanked development partners for the support to push for the reform of the public service. He said that the launch of the strategic roadmap is therefore a step in the right direction. He said that strengthening and building capacity are equally crucial ventures. He said that the implementation stage is also very important. He called for more investment in the public service. He said that the mandate of his Ministry in reforming the public service is a welcoming venture.

A presentation of the strategic master plan was done and the keynote address was delivered by the Minister of State, Office of the Vice President, on behalf of Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh.