Sierra Leone's Information Minister Acknowledges Economic Hardship but Expresses Hope

February 23, 2025

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has admitted that the country is facing economic difficulties but remains optimistic about the future.

Speaking on the economic challenges, Bah attributed the hardship to global crises, including the Ukraine war and shifting global alliances following the election of U.S. President Donald Trump. He stated, “We live in tough times; the world is on fire.”

The minister also linked inflation in Sierra Leone to the ongoing Israel-Palestine war, noting that while the country’s inflation rate was once over 50%, the government has successfully reduced it to 10%.

To ease the economic burden, Bah highlighted the Bio administration’s efforts, including the introduction of a rice formula to lower food prices and significant investments in local agriculture to boost rice production. He assured that Sierra Leone is not facing shortages of essential commodities.

Addressing fuel concerns, the minister acknowledged past difficulties but claimed the government has stabilized fuel supply and maintained affordability. However, he admitted that while progress has been made, the country’s economic situation "is not yet rosy."

Bah praised President Julius Maada Bio, stating that his leadership is committed to transforming Sierra Leone, though he acknowledged that such transformation “takes time.”