On April 29, 2024, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone delivered a pivotal keynote address at the World Bank – International Development Association (IDA21) for Africa Heads of State Summit in Nairobi, Kenya. His speech underscored the urgent need to address Africa's infrastructure deficit and prioritize climate resilience to foster sustainable development across the continent.

President Bio emphasized the critical role of infrastructure in driving economic growth and fostering sustainable development in Africa. He stressed that investments in energy and technological innovation are essential to unlocking Africa's transformative potential and ensuring long-term resilience in the face of evolving challenges.

In his address, President Bio called for increased funding from the IDA to support Africa's efforts to become a climate-resilient continent. He highlighted the importance of strategic investments in infrastructure to facilitate trade, reduce business costs, and enhance global competitiveness.

Drawing on Sierra Leone's experience, President Bio outlined the country's commitment to people-centered development through initiatives such as the Mid-Term Development Plan and his administration's five key priorities: Feed Salone, Human Capital Development, Youth Employment, Revamping Public Services, and Tech and Infrastructure. He emphasized the need for concessional resources from the IDA, including debt financing aligned with Africa's development objectives.

President Bio's address resonated with a call for enhanced cooperation and collaboration between African nations and development partners to address the continent's development challenges effectively. He underscored the importance of measurable debt financing and innovative financing mechanisms to support Africa's development aspirations.

In conclusion, President Bio reaffirmed Sierra Leone's readiness to work closely with the IDA and other development partners to advance Africa's development agenda. His speech reflected a commitment to inclusive and sustainable development, underpinned by a vision of prosperity and resilience for all African nations.

President Bio's participation in the World Bank IDA21 Summit exemplifies Sierra Leone's proactive engagement in global development initiatives and its commitment to harnessing partnerships for the collective advancement of the continent. As Africa navigates the complexities of the 21st century, President Bio's leadership underscores the importance of strategic investments in infrastructure and climate resilience to build a prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come.