Freetown, 29th July 2026 – UNICEF has called for stronger investment in child-focused programmes as mounting debt obligations threaten to crowd out social spending.
At a high-level budget engagement held at the Ministry of Finance’s conference hall on George Street, UNICEF Sierra Leone presented a comprehensive budget brief urging government authorities to safeguard allocations for health, education, nutrition, water, sanitation, and child protection.
The report warns that debt payments projected at SLE 8.6 billion in 2026, nearly 29 percent of total expenditure and 39 percent of domestic revenue, risk undermining essential services. UNICEF Representative Mariko Kagoshima stressed that fiscal discipline must not come at the expense of children’s rights.
“Investing in children is not only the right thing to do, it’s an investment in Sierra Leone’s human capital, productivity, and resilience,” Kagoshima said.
Key recommendations include the protection of budgets from in-year cuts and ensuring timely disbursement to local councils. Prioritizing primary healthcare, vaccines, nutrition supplies, and early childhood development to reach vulnerable children.
UNICEF also recommends developing sustainable financing strategies, including a child grant funded through the Mineral Wealth Fund whilst improving predictability in WASH funding to reduce reliance on external aid.
Tapiwa Kelvin Mutambirwa, who presented the brief, emphasized that safeguarding social spending is critical for Sierra Leone’s future growth and resilience.
Financial Secretary Matthew Dingie welcomed UNICEF’s intervention, noting that the recommendations will shape upcoming fiscal decisions. He disclosed that about 2.2 percent of government agencies’ programme budgets are currently directed towards child-focused interventions, including the Free Quality School Education programme and transportation support.
Dingie acknowledged the challenges posed by global shocks but reaffirmed government’s commitment to scaling up social spending. “We are working on a strategic plan to implement some of UNICEF’s recommendations, including expanding school feeding and child protection initiatives,” he said.
The Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with UNICEF, also conducted a validation workshop on social sector budget allocations and execution for children and persons with disabilities. Deputy Director of Budget, Dr. Ilara Mahdi, highlighted the importance of improving transparency, accountability, and efficient resource use.
UNICEF commended Sierra Leone for maintaining macroeconomic stability and reducing fiscal deficits despite global pressures, but urged the timely release and transparent use of funds to ensure real impact on children’s lives.
