SL Parliament Explores Gender, Oversight, and Financial Independence with French Partners
On Monday, December 9, 2024, the Leadership of the Parliament of Sierra Leone hosted a delegation from Expertise France Group (AFD) and the Human Capital Institute for Cooperation Project (PACOP) to explore strategic areas for fostering parliamentary cooperation between France and Sierra Leone. The discussions centered on key areas, including parliamentary constitutional missions (legislation, oversight), gender issues, administrative organization, financial independence, international partnerships, and promoting transparency through open parliament practices.
During the welcoming ceremony, Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, expressed Sierra Leone’s eagerness to cooperate with France. He highlighted the significance of the proposed project components, assuring the delegation that the Sixth Parliament is committed to implementing them, despite concerns about the limited two-year timeframe for the project. He emphasized that the project aligns with Sierra Leone’s Strategic Plan for Parliament.
Jean Philippe Derosier, Chief Project Lead for the France Group, reassured the Parliament’s leadership that the PACOP Project aims to strengthen parliamentary cooperation between France and four African countries: two French-speaking nations (Benin and Gabon) and two English-speaking ones (Botswana and Sierra Leone). The project is funded by the French Ministry for Foreign Affairs and is supported by Expertise France Group AFD. It will run from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2026, focusing on key components, such as legislation, oversight, gender issues, financial independence, international relations, and transparency.
Gilbert N’habay, Deputy Clerk of Parliament, affirmed Sierra Leone’s readiness for the project, noting the creation of a new program implementation structure. He emphasized the Parliament’s commitment to a long-term, impactful project. Mohamed A. Jalloh, Director of Training and Strategy, presented the Parliament’s Strategic Plan, showcasing the inclusion of 42 female members and the progress made, such as the launch of the Legislative Compendium and a partnership with civil society organizations to promote an open parliament.
Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Paran Umar Tarawalie, acknowledged the challenges faced in implementing the Strategic Plan, particularly due to funding issues, but highlighted progress in promoting transparency and public participation, especially in parliamentary sittings and the budget process.
Hon. Abdul Kargbo, Leader of the Opposition, praised the France Group’s initiative and assured them that both the opposition and government are committed to monitoring the project’s success, ensuring it brings tangible benefits to Sierra Leone’s parliamentary development.
