IMF Technical Mission Initiates Discussions for $210 Million Resilience and Sustainability Facility

IMF Technical Mission Initiates Discussions for $210 Million Resilience and Sustainability Facility

A technical mission from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commenced discussions to facilitate Sierra Leone's access to a $210 million Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). This lending instrument is designed to bolster long-term structural reforms aimed at addressing climate change and enhancing national resilience.

Sierra Leone is concurrently preparing its RSF access request alongside its ongoing Extended Credit Facility (ECF)-supported program. If approved at 75% of its quota, the RSF would provide approximately $210 million in crucial funding.

The proposed reform measures are slated for implementation over a two-year period, with an anticipated completion date by the end of 2027. The mission's primary objective is to finalize timelines, establish responsibilities, and ensure effective coordination among key government agencies. 

These include the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, and the National Disaster Management Agency.

During the opening discussions on Monday, September 29, 2025, Acting Minister of Finance, Kadiatu Allie, emphasized the critical need for alignment on both timing and content. She urged all participating agencies and partners to engage in close coordination throughout the process.

Sellu McCarthy, Head of the Climate Finance Unit at the Ministry of Finance, elaborated on the monitoring framework. Progress will be assessed through four semi-annual reviews, conducted in conjunction with the ECF reviews. Successful completion of each reform measure will trigger the disbursement of a proportional share of the RSF loan, ensuring accountability and sustaining momentum throughout the reform period.

The comprehensive reform measures will focus on six key areas: strengthening Climate Governance, enhancing Infrastructure Resilience, improving Fiscal Planning, bolstering Social Protection, ensuring Water Utility Sustainability, and refining Financial Sector Reporting.

Representatives from the World Bank have requested additional technical discussions to ensure clarity and foster a shared understanding of the intricate reform process among all stakeholders.