Dr Elsiddig Mohamed Rahma and Director of the African Development Bank and President Julius Maada Bio
Monday, February 10, 2026 — President Julius Maada Bio received Dr Elsiddig Mohamed Rahma, the newly appointed Executive Director of the African Development Bank (AfDB), during a courtesy visit to State House. Dr Rahma was accompanied by Dr Halima Yusuf Hashi, the Bank’s outgoing Country Manager for Sierra Leone, who paid her a farewell call before leaving the office.
Finance Minister Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura informed the President about Dr Rahma’s mandate and responsibilities. Minister Bangura emphasised that Dr Rahma represents Sierra Leone, Ghana, Liberia, The Gambia, and Sudan on the AfDB Board, and described him as a seasoned economist who will vigorously defend and advance those countries’ interests. He mentioned that Dr Rahma will be in charge of Sierra Leone’s robust AfDB portfolio, which focuses on agriculture, infrastructure, and gender empowerment interventions.
Dr Rahma conveyed warm greetings on behalf of the President of the African Development Bank and congratulated President Bio on Sierra Leone’s strong economic performance, sustained growth, and improved fiscal discipline. He reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting the government’s Medium-Term National Development Plan and presented the AfDB’s updated investment priorities for the country: 54% for infrastructure, 23% for agriculture, and 23% for multi-sectoral initiatives.
President Bio welcomed Dr Rahma to Sierra Leone and thanked the AfDB leadership, describing the Bank’s President as a reliable partner in the country’s development efforts. The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to transformational development, emphasising that infrastructure is still a critical enabler for increasing agricultural productivity and promoting inclusive economic growth.
In his concluding remarks, President Bio praised Dr Halima Yusuf Hashi for her dedicated service and constructive partnership with the government, wished her continued success in her future endeavours, and assured her of Sierra Leone’s long-standing friendship.
