By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
The Parliament of Sierra Leone has passed into law, with amendments, the landmark Investment Framework Agreement (Ratification) Act 2025, signaling a major step forward in the country’s investment and development agenda.
24 June 2025, the legislation authorizes the ratification of the Investment Framework Agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and Sherbro Alliance Partners Limited. This agreement lays the foundation for significant investment in the development of Sherbro Island, one of the country’s most underdeveloped regions.
Presenting the Bill to Parliament, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., explained that the agreement outlines key investment commitments and development plans for Sherbro Island, he emphasized that the Bill is structured into eight sections, each addressing critical aspects of the framework to ensure transparency, accountability, and shared benefits.
During the parliamentary debate, several Members of Parliament welcomed the Bill, highlighting its potential to accelerate socio-economic progress, particularly in underserved areas.
Hon. Sulaiman Marry Conteh (Western Area) described the legislation as straightforward and timely, noting its importance in boosting national development.
Hon. Joseph Williams-Lamin (Bo District) acknowledged the Bill’s clarity but raised concerns about community engagement, stressing the need for thorough local consultations.
Responding to such concerns, Hon. Moses Edwin (Bonthe District) assured Parliament that the people of Bonthe were well-informed and involved. He praised the inclusion of the Bonthe Trust Fund in the agreement, calling the initiative a “game changer” for a region long neglected in national development.
Hon. Quintin Salia-Konneh (Kailahun District) welcomed the Bill, but urged for greater community sensitization. He highlighted the need for a consultative and inclusive implementation process.
Also, from Kailahun District, Hon. Emelia L. Tongi described the Bill as one of the most promising legislative proposals in recent years. She commended the government’s efforts to make Sierra Leone more attractive to foreign investment.
Hon. Musa Fofanah hailed the Bill as a blessing for Bonthe and the entire nation. He applauded the government’s leadership and highlighted the Trust Fund provision as a vital component for ensuring community benefits.
Hon. Rebecca Y. Kamara (Kono District) welcomed the investment, comparing Sherbro’s potential to that of Cyprus. She emphasized Sierra Leone’s beauty and stability, encouraging citizens to support and take pride in such initiatives.
Hon. Bash Kamara (Bo District) noted that Sherbro Island remains one of the least developed areas in the country, and expressed optimism that the agreement would unlock its long-overlooked tourism and economic potential.
Wrapping up the debate, the Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, expressed full support for the Bill, he assured parliament that all necessary measures would be taken to ensure its effective implementation and to maximize its benefits for the people of Sierra Leone.
Credit – Parliamentary PR
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Friday, 27th June, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
