Freetown, March 26, 2025 (SLENA)— The Parliament of Sierra Leone convened on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, to engage in a rigorous debate on the ‘State-Owned Enterprises and Governance Act 2025,’ a crucial piece of legislation aimed at reforming the management and governance of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in the country.
The Bill, presented by Deputy Minister of Finance Bockarie Kalokoh, seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for the effective ownership and governance of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), which currently comprise approximately 24 entities either fully or partially owned by the government. Kalokoh emphasised that despite the government’s efforts, these enterprises have faced significant challenges that hinder their operations. “This policy is designed to enhance transparency and accountability,” he stated, highlighting the need for efficient service delivery in Sierra Leone.
Chairman of the Finance Committee, Honourable France Amara Kaisamba, acknowledged the historical significance of SOEs in the nation’s economy. However, he noted their declining performance over the years, prompting discussions on potential privatisation. “To reform the state-owned enterprises is a laudable venture,” Kaisamba asserted.
Honourable Catherine Zainab Tarawallie from Bombali District raised concerns over the serious management issues plaguing SOEs, specifically citing Sierratel’s potential to address national challenges if adequately managed. She urged the Ministry of Finance to clarify the model used for privatising government-owned entities.
Similarly, Honourable Engineer Fallah Tengbeh from Kailahun District criticised the inefficiency of SOEs, calling for a more robust approach to ensure they contribute positively to economic growth. “Our State-Owned Enterprises have not been performing,” he lamented, underscoring the establishment of the National Commission for Privatization as a response to these shortcomings.
Opposition Chief Whip Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara raised concerns about budget allocations affecting the operations of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). He emphasized the importance of providing the necessary resources for institutions responsible for generating income to support national development.
Honourable Daniel Brima Koroma, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, echoed these sentiments, urging Parliament to invite SOE representatives to address their inefficiencies while also acknowledging some success stories, such as the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank and National Petroleum. He recommended that the Bill be sent to the Legislative Committee for further scrutiny.
In response, Deputy Leader of Government Business 2, Honourable Saa Emerson Lamina, asserted that the Bill is now Parliament’s responsibility and urged thorough examination to ensure it benefits the people of Sierra Leone. He pointed out financial instability issues within the Bill, calling for the legislative committee to address these concerns adequately.
Following a comprehensive discussion, the Bill was forwarded to the Legislative Committee for in-depth consideration before its potential passage into law, utilising Standing Order 51(1). The debate underscores Parliament’s commitment to enhancing governance and accountability in the operations of state-owned enterprises, a critical step toward strengthening Sierra Leone’s economic development.
