By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
In a significant step towards addressing social challenges in Sierra Leone, Minister of Social Welfare has on Tuesday the 4 March 2025, Honourable Melrose Karminty, and the Indian High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, Baisnab Charan Pradhan, convened at the Ministry of Social Welfare headquarters in New England Ville, Freetown. The meeting focused on fostering collaborative development initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the country’s most vulnerable populations.
The discussions revolved around economic empowerment strategies and the possibility of Sierra Leone adopting successful Indian development models that align with its socio-economic landscape. High Commissioner Pradhan confirmed the commitment of the India-United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Development Partnership Fund to finance proposed initiatives, revealing that the project is in its final approval stage.
“We are thrilled that the India-UNDP Development Partnership Fund has agreed to fund this project,” said Pradhan, emphasizing India’s dedication to supporting Sierra Leone’s development agenda. He also underscored the importance of timely financial intervention, acknowledging the Ministry of Social Welfare as a critical pillar in President Bio’s administration due to its direct impact on the most vulnerable citizens.
Empowering the Marginalized
Minister Karminty outlined the ministry’s commitment to empowering persons with disabilities and other marginalized groups. She stressed that the ministry plays a vital role in addressing fundamental human needs, particularly for those who are homeless or socially excluded.
“Our ministry addresses fundamental human needs, including support for individuals with disabilities who are often homeless or marginalized,” she stated.
Highlighting the resource constraints that hinder the ministry’s capacity, Minister Karminty provided updates on a recent initiative tackling drug and substance abuse. She announced the opening of a rehabilitation center, with plans to establish ten additional centers under this new partnership.
The project, she revealed, will also focus on establishing training centers aimed at equipping persons with disabilities with skills to improve their livelihoods. Minister Karminty expressed eagerness to fast-track the implementation of these initiatives, recognizing the crucial role of international partnerships in tackling social issues.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Both leaders acknowledged the shared challenges of unemployment, gender-based violence, and substance abuse, which disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. They reaffirmed the enduring partnership between Sierra Leone and India, highlighting past successful collaborations as a foundation for future development projects.
The meeting underscored the deep-rooted ties between the two nations and paved the way for impactful initiatives focused on socio-economic empowerment for marginalized citizens. With the India-UNDP Development Partnership Fund set to provide financial backing, this partnership marks a crucial milestone in the Ministry of Social Welfare’s ongoing efforts to uplift the most disadvantaged segments of society.
As the project moves toward implementation, stakeholders remain hopeful that this collaboration will drive meaningful change, enhancing the quality of life for countless Sierra Leoneans in need.