Freetown, 23rd February 2026 – Sierra Leone has been ranked 9th out of 11 African countries in the latest World Economics Governance Index, securing a Grade C with an overall score of 48.0. While the report identifies areas for improvement, it also underscores the country’s resilience and potential for transformation.
President Julius Maada Bio welcomed the findings as a call to action, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusivity, accountability, and transparency. “Sierra Leone ranks 9th in the World Economics Ranking of good governance in Africa, affirming our drive to transform Sierra Leone into a thriving nation. Congratulations—our potential is limitless! Let’s continue working together for a brighter future,” he said.
The index shows Sierra Leone performing moderately in Press Freedom (66.5) and Political Rights (71.4), reflecting progress in democratic participation and media independence. Analysts note that these strengths provide a solid foundation for further reforms aimed at boosting investor confidence and strengthening institutions.
Although challenges remain in areas such as the Rule of Law (26.4) and Corruption (27.6), the report emphasizes that Sierra Leone’s trajectory is part of a wider regional struggle with governance. Encouragingly, examples from Cabo Verde (74.0) and Mauritius (68.4) demonstrate how reforms can attract investment, improve fiscal transparency, and drive sustainable growth models Sierra Leone can draw inspiration from.
Business leaders argue that Sierra Leone’s focus on accountability and judicial independence will be key to unlocking opportunities in mining, agriculture, and infrastructure. With bold reforms, the country can position itself as a competitive destination for capital and innovation.
The World Economics report concludes that governance quality is a critical determinant of economic performance. For Sierra Leone, the message is clear: the building blocks for progress are already in place, and with continued reforms, the nation is poised to strengthen its credibility, attract investment, and achieve lasting development.
