The World Bank, in partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone (GOSL), the United Nations, and the United Kingdom’s Department for International Development (DFID), held a Consultative Group (CG) conference for Sierra Leone in London on November 29-30, 2005.
At this conference a total of approximately $800 million was committed by the donor community in support of the Sierra Leone Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (SL-PRSP), for disbursement in the years 2005 to 2007
The Sierra Leone Network, (SLN) was one of a few civil society groups invited to attend the CG, representing the interest of all Sierra Leoneans, particularly those in the Diaspora. The SLN’s delegation had some very fruitful interactions and dialogue with senior members of the Sierra Leone government and the development partners present at the conference and was able to make significant input into the deliberations.
The SLN’s delegation clearly articulated concerns about inadequate provision in the PRSP to support successful implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations and also expressed the hope that there will be proper oversight and monitoring of the SL-PRSP Trust Fund once it is set up.
According to a press release, the organization calls on the government of Sierra Leone to set up the legal framework of the SL-PRSP Trust Fund as soon as possible. The SLN recommends that the enabling legislation should clearly state the objectives of the Trust Fund, selection and composition of the Board of Trustees, duties and powers of its Trustees, and also the framework for monitoring and reporting on application and use of funds.
The NGO believes an enabling legislation will not only ensure the transparency and accountability of the management of the SL-PRSP Trust Fund, but it will also provide a point of reference that will impart clarity if issues of compliance or non-compliance arise in the future.
SLN showered praise on the Government of Sierra Leone for putting together a robust PRSP working in conjunction with partners from the World Bank and the UN. The SLN will also like to thank the British government for being such a wonderful host, and all the donors, for their recognition of and commitment to supporting the development needs of Sierra Leone as manifested in their various statements and generous pledges and commitments.
Photo: President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah of Sierra Leone
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