Freetown, 11th August, 2026– President Julius Maada Bio has conferred Sierra Leone’s prestigious national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Republic (GCOR), on outgoing World Bank Country Manager, Dr. Abdu Muwonge, in recognition of his distinguished service and contribution to the country’s development.
The investiture ceremony at State House marked the conclusion of Dr. Muwonge’s tenure in Sierra Leone and celebrated his role in strengthening cooperation between the Government and the World Bank.
Presenting the citation, Presidential Press Secretary Yusuf Keketoma Sandi Esq. explained that the honour was conferred under Section 40(4)(f) of the 1991 Constitution, which empowers the President to bestow national honours on individuals whose service merits recognition.
Dr. Muwonge expressed heartfelt appreciation to President Bio and the people of Sierra Leone:
“I do not take this recognition for granted. Sierra Leone will always be home to me, and it will remain very close to my heart.”
He commended the cooperation he received from ministries, departments, and agencies, noting that the partnership had supported significant national development programmes. He also praised President Bio’s leadership, particularly in infrastructure and women’s empowerment initiatives.
In his response, President Bio described Dr. Muwonge as a trusted partner whose leadership combined strategic vision with a deep understanding of Sierra Leone’s priorities.
“Your ability to listen is what has inspired me the most. You have been a sincere advocate for Sierra Leone’s development.”
The President emphasized that the relationship between Sierra Leone and the World Bank had evolved beyond individual projects into a broader partnership built on a shared vision for national progress.
President Bio thanked Dr. Muwonge for his service and wished him success in his next assignment. He also welcomed the incoming World Bank Country Manager, expected to assume duty in September 2026, reaffirming Sierra Leone’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding partnership with the institution.
The ceremony served not only as a farewell to Dr. Muwonge but also as an affirmation of the enduring collaboration between Sierra Leone and the World Bank in advancing sustainable development.
