APRM Holds One-Day Training Workshop on Community-Led Governance in Kenema

The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) National Secretariat–Sierra Leone has concluded a one-day training workshop in Kenema, held on 26th September 2025.

The event focused on strengthening community-led governance through decentralization, with an emphasis on empowering communities and deepening democratic participation in Sierra Leone.

The workshop brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including local council officials, civil society representatives, youth leaders, media practitioners, and members of technical research institutions. Designed as both a learning and collaborative platform, the training aimed to raise awareness of decentralization and its role in fostering inclusive governance at the community level.

In his opening remarks, APRM Executive Secretary Mohamed S. Sheriff highlighted the importance of inclusive governance and evidence-based policymaking. He stressed that the decentralization process must be rigorous and reflective of the voices and needs of citizens across Sierra Leone.

Also addressing the workshop, Francis Mustapha Sengeh, Regional Coordinator for ICPMC East, delivered a comprehensive presentation on deepening democracy and strengthening community-led governance under the decentralization framework.

The training sessions included group work that allowed participants to discuss their roles in local governance and identify challenges faced by councils. According to organizers, the outcomes of the workshop will feed directly into Sierra Leone’s National Plan of Action and are expected to promote accountable, inclusive, and responsive local governance.

By reinforcing community engagement, the APRM Secretariat reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to good governance, institutional resilience, and sustainable development.