NaCSA Hosts High-Level Courtesy Visits as SLCDD Project Transitions, PSSNYE Financial Systems Strengthen...

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*Freetown, Sierra Leone — 21st September 2026*

The Commissioner for the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), Ambassador Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina today received two separate high-level delegations underscoring the continued confidence of NaCSA's development partners in the institution's stewardship of Sierra Leone's flagship social protection and community development programmes.

In the first engagement of the day, Mr. Kokhorjon Aminov, Country Manager for the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group Regional Hub, led a delegation of IsDB technical experts, accompanied by officials from Sierra Leone's Ministry of Finance, on a courtesy call to the Commissioner of NaCSA, Ambassador Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina.

The discussions centred on the successful closure of the Sierra Leone Community Demand Driven (SLCDD) Project Phase II and the strategic groundwork for its transition into possible Phase III. Over the course of its implementation, the SLCDD Project has served as a cornerstone of NaCSA's community empowerment portfolio, channelling resources directly to communities to strengthen local governance structures, expand access to basic services, and give citizens

a stronger voice in decisions that shape their own development.

Speaking on the occasion, Commissioner Ndomahina reflected on the project's impact and the road ahead: *"The SLCDD Project has been pivotal in empowering communities and strengthening local governance. As we move into Phase III, our priority is to consolidate achievements and ensure sustainability for the benefit of Sierra Leoneans."*

For his part, Country Manager Aminov reaffirmed the IsDB's continued partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone, noting that the transition represents a moment of renewed opportunity rather than simply a change in project cycle: *"The IsDB remains committed to supporting Sierra Leone's development agenda. The possible transition to Phase III is an opportunity to build on the successes of Phase II and expand opportunities for inclusive growth."*

The meeting between NaCSA, the IsDB and the Ministry of Finance is expected to pave the way for deeper collaboration as Phase III design and implementation arrangements are finalised, with an emphasis on embedding the gains already achieved under community-driven development into a more sustainable, locally-owned model.

Later the same day, NaCSA welcomed Mr. Zephaniah Smith, Acting Financial Management Specialist at the World Bank Country Office in Sierra Leone, for a separate working visit with the Commissioner. This engagement focused squarely on financial management arrangements under the Productive Social Safety Net and Youth Employment (PSSNYE) Project, which supports cash transfers, labour-intensive public works, and youth entrepreneurship initiatives across the country.

Discussions between Mr Smith and Commissioner Ndomahina emphasised the continued importance of robust financial management systems in safeguarding donor resources and reinforcing public trust in the delivery of social protection programmes. Both sides underscored that transparency and accountability are not merely compliance requirements, but foundational to the credibility and long-term effectiveness of the PSSNYE Project as it continues to expand its reach to vulnerable households and youth across Sierra Leone.

NaCSA appreciates both delegations for their continued engagement and looks forward to deepening these partnerships as it advances its mandate of poverty reduction, social protection, and inclusive community development across Sierra Leone.

*For further information on this and other matters, please contact:*

*The Information, Education and Communication Unit*

*📞 +23278155556 / +23277022709 / +23230518539*