Statement by UN Resident Coordinator Seraphine Wakana at the launch of the ITC Ready Salone Project.

The Chief Minister,

Ministers of Government,

Representatives of International Development Partners

The Executive Director of the International Trade Centre.

Representatives of UN Agencies

Distinguished Guests.

I am delighted to be part of this landmark launch of the ITC Ready Salone Project, which will empower youth in Sierra Leone through digital technologies. In a global context, you will all agree with me that the digital economy has become a pivotal driver of economic growth, leveraging advancements in information and communication technologies (ICTs) to enhance efficiency, productivity, and innovation across various sectors. Countries worldwide are increasingly integrating digital technologies into their economic frameworks, fostering new business models, and creating digital ecosystems that support entrepreneurship and job creation. The digital economy encompasses a wide range of activities, including e-commerce, digital banking, online education, and telemedicine, all of which contribute to the overall economic output. 

It is, however, worth noting that whilst the digital economy presents significant opportunities, it also has its challenges. On the one hand, it offers the potential for inclusive growth by providing access to global markets, reducing transaction costs, and enabling remote work and collaboration. On the other hand, it raises concerns about digital divides, cybersecurity, and the need for robust regulatory frameworks to ensure fair competition and protect people’s rights. Governments and policymakers are tasked with balancing these dynamics to maximize the benefits of the digital economy while mitigating its risks. 

In Sierra Leone, digital transformation has the potential to trigger inclusive growth, that will improve the life of her people, especially young people. However, the data shows that there is still room for the adoption of digital technologies by people, institutions and companies in the country.  That is why I want to applaud Government for launching the national initiatives to support digital entrepreneurship and trade which has the potential to promote competitiveness and inclusive growth.

As part of the United Nations system and through the International Trade Center, I acknowledge these significant steps taken by the Government and I am particularly pleased to be part of the launch of the ITC Ready Salone Project, which will strengthen Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises and increase awareness of digital technologies and skills of young people in various communities in Sierra Leone. 

For us in the United Nations system, the gains hoped to be achieved by today’s launch also aim to address a vision of the august body through its Pact for the Future. The Pact is a United Nations document that was adopted in September 2024 as a comprehensive agreement to modernize international cooperation and prepare for future challenges, covering a wide range of issues, including Digital cooperation, that will increase the use of science in policymaking.

I also want to use this opportunity on behalf of the UN Country Team to welcome the ITC’s Executive Director, Pamela Coke-Hamilton and her Team to Sierra Leone.

ITC is an integral part of the UN Country Team (UNCT) in Sierra Leone and is a signatory of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (CF) for 2025-2030. The document is the single most important strategic document for the UN Development System’s engagement with the host country. 

The Cooperation Framework has been carefully designed to provide comprehensive support to the country’s development priorities outlined in the MTNDP (2024-2030), while simultaneously contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through the six transitions required to accelerate progress towards the SDGs. 

The objectives of the READY Salone Project are laudable as they are well aligned with government policies and priorities such as contained in the Medium Term National Development Plan.

As Resident Coordinator, I am pleased to state that the envisaged READY SALONE Project Results and Outcome contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and government development priorities.

I am therefore pleased to state that implementation of this project will accelerate progress towards the SDGs, especially SDGs 1,5,8,9,10 and 17.

In conclusion, I would like to express the commitment of the UNCT and other Implementing Partners to ensure a successful implementation of the READY Salone Project in Sierra Leone. 

Thank You All