The Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL), in implementing the proposed Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project (SL DTP), is committed to complying with Sierra Leonean laws and the World Bank Environmental and Social Standard 5 (ESS 5) on Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use and Involuntary Resettlement. The purpose of developing a Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) at this stage of the Project is to outline the framework and principles for execution of the Project compensation/ relocation/resettlement and livelihood related issues for Project Affected Persons (PAPs) as early as possible in project development. This will allow for early and effective disclosure to key stakeholders, and subsequent feedback and inputs, prior to development of a main Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) for subproject activities.

The Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project (SLDTP) aims to expand access to broadband internet, increase digital skills and improve government capacity to deliver public services digitally. The project will support a strong enabling environment for fast-tracked digitization; promote a shift in digital government services from service to life-event focused approach to enhance the Government’s digital capabilities; increase Sierra Leone’s capacity to promote digital innovation and sector-wide digital transformation in selected strategic sectors and boost digital skills development and capability to increase Sierra Leone’s digital talent base. 

The proposed activities in the SLDTP are intended to accelerate access to and usage of innovation in digital services by supporting inclusive and fast-tracking digital transformation. The project will enable citizens, start-ups, schools, colleges and universities ICT users, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and Government to benefit from digital services in the form of steady digital growth, job creation and greater digital efficiency.

The project activities will be implemented under a variety of environmental and social conditions. The Environmental and Social risks associated with these activities are both rated as moderate. The Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) and the  Environmental and social commitment plan (ESCP) are two of the required environmental and social instruments of the Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project.

The Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone and that of the Government of the Republic of The Gambia are to enter into Frame Work of Cooperation Agreement for the Establishment of a joint Commission between the two countries.

The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFAIC), Mamadi Gobeh Kamara has met with the African Group of Ambassadors and Justice Tonia Barnett, the Candidate for the position of Commissioner of the African Commission for Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR).

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Trade and Industry has delivered a resounding keynote address on enhancing international trade of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and regional integration during the 5th meeting of the 1st session of the Preparatory Committee for the Fifth United Nations Conference on the LDCs held in New York on 27th May 2021.