By Ishmael Bayoh, Information Attaché, Sierra Leone Embassy, Dakar
8th June, 2026 – The Government of Sierra Leone has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SO.AFRI.LOGE, a Malian housing developer, to construct 22,000 social housing units for civil servants.
The agreement, signed in Dakar by the Ministries of Public Administration and Political Affairs (MoPAPA) and Lands, Housing and Country Planning (MLHCP), establishes a framework for planning, financing, and implementing affordable housing with a mortgage mechanism tailored to public servants.
The project, facilitated by Sierra Leone’s Embassy in Senegal, is part of President Julius Maada Bio’s public sector reform agenda aimed at improving the welfare and productivity of civil servants. Ambassador Ibrahim Turay, who spearheaded the investment drive, said the deal reflects Sierra Leone’s economic diplomacy strategy to attract direct foreign investment.
Under the MoU, SO.AFRI.LOGE will mobilize technical expertise and financing to deliver the 22,000 housing units in phases, ensuring compliance with building standards and environmental regulations. The company will also transfer technology and skills to Sierra Leonean professionals, strengthening local capacity.
The Ministries pledged to coordinate with relevant agencies, align public policies, and facilitate approvals. They will also engage civil service unions, housing authorities, and pension institutions to ensure smooth implementation. A Joint Technical Committee will oversee the project, with a detailed plan including financing arrangements and timelines to be finalized within 90 days.
Minister of Public Administration and Political Affairs, Hon. Amara Kallon, emphasized that the housing scheme is part of broader reforms to enhance civil servants’ motivation and productivity. “What we went through in terms of housing as civil servants should not be repeated. This project ensures better living conditions for those serving today,” he said.
Minister of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, Hon. Dr. Turad Senesie, added that the initiative would “alleviate the suffering of civil servants” and highlighted Sierra Leone’s flexible tax regime as an incentive for investors.
SO.AFRI.LOGE representatives, Mahamane Baba Maiga and Mr. Bathily, expressed confidence in Sierra Leone’s investment climate, noting similarities with projects they are already executing in Senegal.
The housing program is expected to deliver not only improved living standards for civil servants but also stimulate construction, job creation, and mortgage market development — positioning Sierra Leone’s housing sector as a driver of economic growth.
