IsDB Team Pays Courtesy Call on NaCSA Commissioner, Reaffirms Commitment to Expanding Development Impact...

*Freetown, Sierra Leone - Tuesday, 21th April 2026.*

The Islamic Development Bank (*IsDB*) team recently paid a courtesy call on the Commissioner of the National Commission for Social Action (*NaCSA*), reaffirming their longstanding partnership and shared commitment to advancing inclusive development initiatives across the country.

The visit provided an opportunity for both parties to reflect on the progress achieved under ongoing interventions, particularly those implemented through integrated, community-focused approaches. Discussions highlighted the transformative impact of projects delivered under earlier phases, while also setting the stage for future expansion.

In his remarks, the Commissioner welcomed the delegate on behalf of his Excellency, the President *H. E Dr Julius Maada Bio*, the board and the entire staff of NaCSA. He emphasized that current interventions, though impactful, remain at a pilot stage. With implementation covering only a small fraction approximately seven out of nearly *199 chiefdoms* the need for scaling up was strongly underscored. “Despite this limited reach, the results have been significant,” Commissioner affirmed.

By adopting a more targeted approach in selected districts such as Mange, the programme has demonstrated how concentrated investments can yield measurable and sustainable outcomes.

Key achievements highlighted include improved water access to Communities that previously struggled with water scarcity, particularly in post-conflict settings. Project communities including hard to reach locations now benefit from reliable and safe water sources. Enhanced agricultural productivity functional, where irrigation systems have enabled farmers to expand cultivation, improving both food security and household incomes. Access to renewable energy, solar-powered electricity has improved living conditions, supported small-scale enterprises, and enhanced productivity within rural communities. Livelihood diversification initiatives such as fish farming and other income-generating activities have created new economic opportunities. The deliberate inclusion of women participation in project implementation has strengthened community ownership and promoted gender equity. These integrated interventions reflect a shift from earlier, more fragmented approaches towards a model that prioritizes depth, coordination, and sustainability.

The team noted that earlier phases of the programme were characterized by scattered interventions across various sectors. While beneficial, this approach limited the overall impact.

The current model, however, focuses on high-need areas, ensuring that multiple project components are delivered within the same communities. This strategy has significantly enhanced visibility, efficiency, and long-term outcomes. The success of the *SLCDD II* phase has generated increasing demand from other districts and chiefdoms, many of which are eager to benefit from similar interventions.

Both *NaCSA* and the *IsDB* team acknowledged the importance of scaling up the programme to reach a broader population. Plans for a subsequent phase are expected to build on the lessons learned, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, maintenance, and institutional strengthening.

The courtesy call also served to reinforce the strong partnership between *NaCSA* and the *IsDB*. The Commissioner expressed deep appreciation for the Bank’s continued support, noting that its contributions extend beyond individual projects to broader national development efforts.

The *IsDB* team, in turn, commended *NaCSA* for its hands-on, community-driven approach and the dedication of its staff in delivering impactful results on the ground.

Both parties reiterated their commitment to inclusive development, highlighting the importance of community engagement, teamwork, and gender inclusion. The role of women in driving development outcomes was particularly emphasized as a key pillar of success.

As *NaCSA* continues to implement people-centered programmes, the institution remains focused on learning, adapting, and improving its approaches to better serve communities.

The courtesy call concluded on a positive note, with both *NaCSA* and the *IsDB* expressing optimism about the future of their collaboration. With proven results from *SLCDD II* phase and strong institutional partnerships in place, there is renewed momentum to expand and deepen development impact across the country.

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