Freetown, 1st December 2025- Sierra Leone’s annual inflation rate dropped to 4.44 percent in October 2025, down from 5.36 percent in September, according to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report from Statistics Sierra Leone. While the national figure signals a cooling trend, regional data reveals sharp disparities, with some areas experiencing deflation and others still grappling with elevated price pressures.
The Western Area recorded the highest year-on-year inflation rate at 6.23 percent, though this marks a decline from 7.75 percent in September. Month-on-month inflation in the region also eased to -0.34 percent, down from 1.03 percent, indicating a slowdown in price growth.
In stark contrast, the Eastern Region posted a year-on-year deflation of -1.34 percent, a dramatic reversal from 1.68 percent the previous month. Month-on-month inflation also fell to -0.59 percent, suggesting sustained price declines across the region.
The Southern Region followed a similar trend, with year-on-year inflation at -0.29 percent, down from 0.52 percent in September. Month-on-month inflation dipped to -0.12 percent, reflecting modest deflationary movement.
The Northern Region maintained relative stability, with year-on-year inflation at 1.47 percent, slightly down from 1.57 percent. Month-on-month inflation remained unchanged at -0.36 percent.
The North-West Region saw a more pronounced slowdown, with year-on-year inflation falling to 0.56 percent from 1.65 percent. Month-on-month inflation also declined to -0.59 percent, matching the Eastern Region’s rate.
The national month-on-month inflation rate turned negative at -0.51 percent, compared to 0.63 percent in September, reinforcing the broader disinflationary trend. However, the regional breakdown underscores uneven economic conditions, with some areas benefiting from falling prices while others continue to face inflationary pressures.
The divergence in regional inflation rates may reflect differences in supply chains, market access, and seasonal factors. Policymakers will need to consider these variations when designing interventions, especially in high-pressure zones like the Western Area.
