By Joseph Momoh, Daily Scope Reporter
A distinguished delegation from the British High Commission, headed by Deputy High Commissioner Kathleen Reid, recently visited the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) and the ECOWAS Logistics Depot in Lungi. The group included Kezia Exley, Deputy Sahel Envoy; Hamish Tye, UK Political Envoy to ECOWAS; Christopher Howells, Political Secretary; and Amalara Jalloh, Political Officer.
The purpose of the visit was to enhance cooperative dialogue and explore avenues for strengthening support to the ECOWAS Logistics Depot. Key discussions centered around identifying intervention areas and addressing capacity gaps, including essential training programs and technical assistance required for the depot’s full operationalization.
In her welcoming address, Minister Kenyeh Barlay expressed gratitude for the visit and acknowledged the UK’s ongoing support. She emphasized the timeliness of the engagement, particularly as Sierra Leone serves as the chair of ECOWAS and prepares to host significant events, including the 2026 ECOWAS Summit.
Minister Barlay underscored key strategic priorities outlined by President Julius Maada Bio, such as economic integration, restoring constitutional order, promoting democratic governance, and enhancing regional security. Her comments highlighted President Bio’s efforts to foster stability and solidarity within the ECOWAS community, particularly through his dialogues with the leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea.
Addressing the status of the Logistics Depot, Barlay outlined its achievements while also noting challenges related to staffing, equipment, and other logistical needs that require immediate attention.
Mr. Komba Momoh, Deputy Development Secretary III and Head of the ECOWAS National Office at MoPED, stressed the importance of capacity-building for national personnel and improved coordination to ensure the Depot becomes fully operational. He reiterated the alignment of these efforts with ECOWAS’ objective to incorporate civilians into peace support operations.
The British delegation shared their experiences supporting other ECOWAS member states, highlighting initiatives in capacity development, strengthening communications systems, and providing technical assistance for peacekeeping missions and diplomatic training.
The delegation expressed their admiration for the progress made at the ECOWAS Logistics Depot, noting the impressive infrastructure developed in Sierra Leone. They commended the government and its partners for transforming the facility into a strategic asset for the region.
Dr. Robert Moikowa, Technical Adviser at the ECOWAS National Office, added that the organization continues to prioritize conflict resolution and resilience building, aiming to transition fragile contexts into sustainable peace through inclusive democracy and economic integration.
The visit concluded with a guided tour of the ECOWAS Logistics Depot, led by Minister Barlay, ECOWAS Resident Representative Mr. John Azumah, and the British delegation. This provided an opportunity to assess the facility’s infrastructure and identify areas where targeted support could have the greatest impact.
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