UN Resident Coordinator Seraphine Wakana's opening remarks at the second quarter ministerial DEPAC

I am honoured to address you today at my first DEPAC meeting since I arrived in Sierra Leone as UN Resident Coordinator.  During my time in Sierra Leone, I have already experienced the good working relationship between the Development Partner community and the Government of Sierra Leone in pushing forward the development aspirations of the country as articulated in the previous Medium Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) and the new National Plan for the 2024 to 2030 period that is the focus of today’s meeting. 

The Government’s speedy drafting and launch of this new Plan is a vital step towards coordinated action and signals its commitment to achieving transformative change, sustainable progress, and inclusive development. Hence, the theme for this 2nd quarter DEPAC meeting is “Alignment and realignment to support the implementation of the Medium-Term National Development Plan 2024-2030.”

The National Plan is not merely a document but a blueprint for action – a vehicle for galvanising and organising meaningful cooperation between Government and Development Partners. Its effective implementation is a priority for all players in the development landscape. Consistent with the country’s commitment to the SDGs, the Medium-Term Plan reflects the country’s determination to leave no one behind and build a nation where every individual can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

Translating the vision contained in the Plan into tangible actions requires not only commitment by government and partners, but also strategic planning at the sector level, realistic costing and prioritization, well-functioning coordination mechanisms, clear communication channels, and effective monitoring to continuously assess progress of its implementation.  As we embark on the new Plan, this is an opportune time to discuss how to best accomplish these goals. By using today’s meeting to discuss cooperation modalities (which I understand is also addressed by the new Development Cooperation Framework document), we will ensure that the results of our development contributions going forward are most impactful. 

As Development Partners, we encourage the Government to demonstrate strong leadership in all sectors and demonstrate the political will, commitment, and transparency that are essential for driving change and overcoming challenges.  Against that backdrop, we stand ready to work with you through the Sector Working Groups and other collaborative platforms to realise the Government’s Big 5 and all other elements of the Plan.  Coordination, information sharing, and accountability are key to our successful cooperation. 

At the same time, we acknowledge the implementation challenges to be overcome, including limited resources, capacity constraints, external shocks, and global uncertainties—which can impact heavily on the ability to deliver the Medium-term Plan.  These challenges require that we commit ourselves to new and innovative ways of problem-solving, efficient collaboration, and continuous learning. 

In all our endeavours, we must remember that inclusivity is the cornerstone of effective implementation. We must ensure meaningful participation of all segments of society, including marginalised groups, women, youth, and persons with disabilities. Their voices, perspectives, and contributions are invaluable in shaping policies and programs that address their needs and aspirations. 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let us harness the collective will, resources, expertise, and innovation capacity of all stakeholders—government agencies, civil society, private sector, development partners, and communities—in the best possible way to turn the Medium-Term Plan aspirations into reality.  On the part of the UN Country Team, we are now designing our new Cooperation Framework for 2025 to 2030 with these objectives in mind. 

Let us embrace our roles with dedication and passion.  Let us work together with determination, creativity, and perseverance to realise the aspirations of Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan with increased momentum to advance the country’s development in the coming years. 

I thank you for your attention and wish us all a fruitful discussion.