Chief Minister Sengeh Debunks ECOWAS Summit Costs Amid Public Debate

Chief Minister Sengeh Debunks ECOWAS Summit Costs Amid Public Debate

Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh has addressed public concerns regarding the cost of hosting the recent ECOWAS Mid-Year Statutory Meetings, clarifying that the US$124 million figure widely discussed is not the expenditure for the event itself, but an investment in long-term national infrastructure.

Speaking at a government press conference at Freetown's Miatta Civic Centre on July 21, 2026, Dr. Sengeh, who served as the National Coordinator for the summit, emphasized that the budget is dedicated to permanent assets rather than temporary event costs. These developments—which include a new conference centre, a hotel, and presidential villas—are designed to bolster Sierra Leone’s capacity to host major international conferences and national events for years to come. Construction is expected to be completed by November 2026.

Dr. Sengeh provided details on the scope of the ECOWAS hosting duties, which spanned several phases, including the "Summit of the Future" and the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government. 

He explained that sessions were structured with specific speakers to manage the complex regional engagements, with meetings held across multiple venues, including the Bintumani International Conference Centre in Freetown and the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre in Lungi.

Reflecting on the successful hosting, Dr. Sengeh reiterated that the government remains committed to its long-term development vision. He highlighted the goal of transforming Sierra Leone into an inclusive middle-income nation by 2039, aligning with broader goals like the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

Dr. Sengeh concluded by calling on citizens to contribute to these national development objectives, stressing that despite the current economic challenges, the infrastructure investments represent a strategic commitment to Sierra Leone’s future.