US Ambassador Speaks on Sierra Leone’s Journey to MCC Compact Completion

In a recent interview with AYV TV, Bryan Hunt, the United States Ambassador to Sierra Leone, highlighted the substantial journey ahead for Sierra Leone to fulfill the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact program.

Ambassador Hunt stressed that the MCC evaluates more than just scorecard results, emphasizing the importance of progress in implementing the provisions outlined in the dialogue agreement.

He expressed, “The scorecard is a first step, certainly an important first step, but it’s a much longer journey.”

The MCC, in collaboration with the Government of Sierra Leone, initiated a $44.4 million threshold program to enhance access to clean water, reliable electricity, and implement reforms aimed at curbing corruption opportunities.

Sierra Leone became eligible to develop a compact in December 2020, as selected by the MCC Board of Directors. However, the MCC’s original timeline for compact approval faced delays due to concerns surrounding the June election.

On September 13, 2023, the MCC announced that its Board had received an update on the agency’s portfolio, which included insights into the recent elections in Sierra Leone.

Acknowledging the election-related issues, the MCC has deviated from its initial timeline for compact approval. Despite this, the MCC maintains an ongoing engagement with the Government of Sierra Leone, underscoring the enduring partnership between the two entities.