FREETOWN, Sierra Leone — December 16, 2025:
In a major vote of confidence in Sierra Leone’s economic trajectory, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board today completed the first and second reviews of the country’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement, enabling the immediate disbursement of approximately US$79.8 million to support national development priorities.
This achievement underlines strong macroeconomic stability, prudent fiscal policy, and accelerated reforms — a testament to the Government’s unwavering commitment to sustainable economic growth and resilience.
This is a Major IMF endorsement of Sierra Leone’s economic trajectory. The completion of both reviews demonstrates that Sierra Leone’s economic reform program is on track with improved performance and policy implementation.
This immediate access to nearly US$80 million boosts the country’s financial buffers to support priority sectors and protect vulnerable populations.
It also reaffirms the strengthening of the country’s economic indicators: Inflation has declined, the leone remains stable, growth is projected at 4.4% in 2025, and borrowing costs have become more sustainable — signaling improved confidence in the economy.
This significant milestone reflects President Julius Maada Bio’s visionary leadership, which has consistently prioritised macroeconomic stability, fiscal discipline, and inclusive growth. Under his direction:
• The Ministry of Finance, led by Minister Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, with strong technical support by the Financial Secretary, Matthew Dingie, has tightened fiscal policy, strengthened revenue mobilisation, and improved expenditure control.
• The Bank of Sierra Leone, under Governor Dr. Ibrahim Stevens, has maintained monetary stability and helped anchor inflation expectations — key factors in restoring economic confidence.
Together, their coordinated actions have not only fulfilled the IMF’s review benchmarks but also set the stage for long-term economic resilience.
Completion of the first and second reviews is more than a procedural step — it signals international confidence in Sierra Leone’s economic strategy and unlocks critical financing at a time when the nation is expanding investments in the Big 5 game changers especially on social services, infrastructure, and private sector activation.
These resources will support programmes that uplift households, bolster economic opportunities for youth, and protect the most vulnerable communities while sustaining fiscal and monetary stability.
In welcoming the IMF decision, Finance Minister Ahmed Sheku Fantamadi Bangura reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining disciplined economic management and accelerating reforms that foster a stable, inclusive, and prosperous Sierra Leone.
