PSSNYE Support Mission Launched by NaCSA and World Bank in Freetown...

*Freetown, Sierra Leone – November 11, 2025 | 5th Floor, Freetown City Council* - The National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) today officially launched the World Bank Implementation Support Mission for the Productive Social Safety Nets and Youth Employment (PSSNYE) project. This high-level engagement marks a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to scale inclusive development, expand social protection, and empower youth across the country.

The mission was formally opened under the chairman of Dr. Susan Robert, Deputy Commissioner (Appointee Designate), and brought together a distinguished assembly of stakeholders—including donor partners, heads of implementing institutions, and senior representatives from key government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. The event served as a platform to reflect on achievements, align priorities, and chart a path forward for the PSSNYE.

Delivering a keynote address, the Commissioner of NaCSA, Ambassador Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina, on behalf of His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio welcomed the World Bank delegation and highlighted the project’s far-reaching impact. *“We are proud to host this mission at a time when the PSSNYE is delivering real impact across Sierra Leone. On behalf of the President, I extend our gratitude to the World Bank and all partners for their continued support. More than 500,000 Sierra Leoneans have been reached across all districts,”* said Ambassador Ndomahina.

Representing the World Bank, Robert Chase, Practice Manager for Social Protection in West Africa, emphasized the importance of sustaining momentum and ensuring results-driven implementation. *“We must ensure that the PSSNYE continues to meet its objectives with precision and accountability. The lives of thousands depend on our collective resolve,”* Chase noted.

Asha Williams, the World Bank’s Technical Team Lead (TTL) for the project, commended the progress made and reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to inclusive development. *“The strides taken by NaCSA and its partners are commendable. This mission is not just a review—it’s a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to inclusive growth,”* Williams stated.

The event also featured powerful contributions from national and local leaders, underscoring the multi-sectoral nature of the PSSNYE. Her Worship Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, Mayor of Freetown City Council, spotlighted the success of the *“Dorti Mus Go”* campaign, which has created over 4,000 jobs for youth and vulnerable groups in the capital.

Mr. Mohamed Lansana Dumbuya, Deputy Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Security, praised the government’s swift and targeted delivery of safety nets to the elderly and extremely poor. *“We are committed to aligning labor market policies with the goals of the PSSNYE. Employment is not just a statistic—it’s dignity,”* he affirmed.

Mr. Augustine Foday-Ngobie, Deputy Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission, emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in project delivery. *“Accountability must remain central. We will continue to monitor and support the integrity of this project,”* he stated, reinforcing the Commission’s oversight role.

Additional remarks came from Mr. Joseph Maada Lahai, Commissioner of the Youth Commission; Mr. Brima Sheriff, Commissioner of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities; and Mr. Andrew Bob Johnny, Statistician General of Statistics Sierra Leone. Each speaker highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration and data-driven decision-making in achieving the project’s goals.

A comprehensive overview of the PSSNYE’s achievements was presented by Mr. Idris Turay, Senior Director of the project. He outlined key milestones, including the expansion of cash transfers, youth skills development programs, and community infrastructure initiatives. *“From cash transfers to youth skills development, the PSSNYE is transforming lives. We’ve reached thousands—and we’re just getting started,”* Turay declared.

The November 2025 mission is expected to catalyze further progress through a series of technical reviews, field visits, and strategic planning sessions. These engagements will help identify implementation bottlenecks, strengthen delivery systems, and ensure that the project continues to deliver measurable impact across all regions.

As the mission unfolds, NaCSA and its partners reaffirm their shared commitment to building a more inclusive, resilient, and empowered Sierra Leone. Stay tuned for updates on mission outcomes, community-level engagements, and the next phase of the PSSNYE.

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

*The Information, Education and Communication Unit*

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