The Investment Framework Agreement (Ratification) Act 2025 was finally discussed and approved by the Sierra Leonean Parliament on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, following a thorough examination and several revisions. With an emphasis on the development and investment of Sherbro Island, this important piece of legislation seeks to expedite the ratification of an investment framework agreement between the Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone and Sherbro Alliance Partnership Limited.
Alpha Sesay Esq., the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, introduced the Bill to Parliament, stressing its significance in creating a strong basis for investment in Sherbro Island. He explained that the agreement is divided into eight sections, each of which covers important elements required for comprehending and carrying out the project. Minister Sesay emphasized the agreement’s possible advantages for the island and Sierra Leone’s larger socioeconomic environment.
During the parliamentary debate, several members expressed their thoughts on the Bill’s implications. Hon. Sulaiman Marry Conteh, representing the Western Area, characterized the Bill as straightforward and underscored its potential to significantly contribute to the country’s development. He stressed the importance of such initiatives in fostering economic growth and improving living standards for local communities.
Conversely, Hon. Joseph Williams-Lamin from Bo District raised concerns regarding community engagement, questioning whether residents had been adequately informed about the project. His comments reflected a broader concern among parliamentarians about ensuring transparency and involvement of the communities that would be directly affected by the developments.
Hon. Moses Edwin from Bonthe District countered this concern, asserting that the people of Bonthe were well-informed about the agreement. He emphasized the importance of the Bonthe Trust Fund, a key element of the investment framework, and expressed optimism about the project’s potential to spur development in Bonthe Island, which has historically lagged in progress.
Hon. Quintin Salia-Konneh from Kailahun District acknowledged the challenges faced by Sherbro Island and echoed the necessity for community awareness regarding the development plans. He expressed his support for the Bill while advocating for a consultative approach to the project’s implementation, ensuring that residents are kept in the loop throughout the process.
Support for the Bill continued to grow, with Hon. Emelia L. Tongi from Kailahun District praising it as one of the most promising legislative proposals presented to Parliament. She noted that the agreement would enhance Sierra Leone’s attractiveness to foreign investors, thereby encouraging further investment in the nation’s economy.
Hon. Musa Fofanah also voiced his support, describing the Bill as a blessing for the people of Bonthe and the nation as a whole. He commended the government for its leadership in securing such investments and reiterated the significance of the Trust Fund provision within the framework.
From Kono District, Hon. Rebecca Y. Kamara welcomed the investment, viewing it as an eye-opener for future opportunities. She drew comparisons with Cyprus, highlighting the potential for island-based development and encouraging citizens to embrace the initiative. Her remarks underscored the belief that with the right investments, Sierra Leone could showcase its natural beauty and security to attract more tourists and investors.
Hon. Bash Kamara of Bo District described Sherbro Island as one of the most underdeveloped areas in the country. He welcomed the investment, highlighting the island’s untapped tourism potential and the need for development to improve the quality of life for its residents.
The Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, reaffirmed strong support for the Bill, emphasizing its importance for the nation’s future. He assured Parliament that all necessary measures would be taken to facilitate the successful passage of the legislation into law, signaling a new era of investment and development for Sherbro Island and its communities.
