By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter D.S
State House, Freetown, February 10, 2026 President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has received Dr. Elsiddig Mohamed Rahma, the newly appointed Executive Director of the African Development Bank (AfDB), during a courtesy visit at State House. Joining them was Dr. Halima Yusuf Hashi, the outgoing Country Manager, marking her departure from office.
During the meeting, Finance Minister Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura highlighted that Dr. Rahma will represent Sierra Leone, Ghana, Liberia, The Gambia, and Sudan on the AfDB Board. He described Dr. Rahma as an accomplished economist who will advocate for Sierra Leone’s interests, particularly in the management of its thriving AfDB portfolio in areas such as agriculture, infrastructure, and gender empowerment.
Dr. Rahma conveyed warm greetings from the AfDB President and praised Sierra Leone’s impressive economic performance, highlighting stable growth and improved fiscal discipline. He reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan, detailing a new investment focus that allocates 54% towards infrastructure, and 23% each to agriculture and multi-sectoral support.
In response, President Bio expressed gratitude for Dr. Rahma’s visit and the AfDB’s ongoing partnership, emphasizing that infrastructure development is crucial for unlocking agricultural potential and fostering inclusive growth. He also recognized the contributions of outgoing Country Manager Dr. Halima Yusuf Hashi, commending her for her dedicated service and strong collaboration with the government.
President Bio wished her continued success in her future endeavors, reinforcing the enduring friendship between Sierra Leone and the African Development Bank.
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