Washington DC, United States, 14th April 2026 — Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, has highlighted the country’s progress in strengthening macroeconomic fundamentals during high-level engagements at the 2026 IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings.
Representing President Julius Maada Bio, Minister Bangura briefed global economists, development partners, and financial institutions on reforms in public financial management, including revisions to the Public Financial Management Act (2016), the Public Procurement Act (2016), and improvements in cash management forecasting.
He commended the IMF’s Fiscal Affairs Department (FAD) for technical support, noting that Sierra Leone has achieved low inflation, a stable exchange rate, positive primary balance, and sustainable interest rates over the past two years. He urged continued assistance in strengthening mining sector capacity, tax reforms, and revenue strategy implementation.
IMF Fiscal Affairs Director Rodrigo Valdes praised Bangura’s leadership, assuring continued collaboration and consideration of Sierra Leone’s requests. In separate talks with the IMF Country Team, Bangura discussed the potential impact of the Middle East crisis on Sierra Leone’s economy and adjustments under the Extended Credit Facility. IMF Mission Chief Christian Saborowski acknowledged the challenges facing developing countries, particularly around food security and poverty.
Bangura also met with Dr. Zarau W. Kibwe, Executive Director of the Africa West 1 Constituency at the World Bank Group, presenting Sierra Leone’s position on support mechanisms to mitigate global shocks. He revealed ongoing discussions to utilize the Rapid Response Option to cushion the impact of the crisis.
The five-day Spring Meetings (April 13–18) bring together finance ministers, central bank governors, investors, civil society, and academics to deliberate on global growth, financial stability, and poverty reduction.
