National Commission for Social Action

31/08/2026

*NaCSA Represents Sierra Leone at China SME Capacity Building Seminar, Strengthening Global Knowledge Exchange and Development Partnerships*

*BEIJING, CHINA — Sierra Leone*, through the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), participated in the *China SME Capacity Building Seminar held in the People’s Republic of China from 11 to 24 August 2026*, bringing together participants from different countries like South Africa, Benin, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Lesotho, and Gambia, for an intensive programme of knowledge exchange, institutional learning and international cooperation.

The two weeks programme provided a platform for participants to explore China’s experience in Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) development, digital transformation, innovation, entrepreneurship, technology, financing, trade and sustainable development.

Representing Sierra Leone and NaCSA, Commissioner *Ambassador Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina*, a former Sierra Leonean Ambassador to China, played a prominent role in the programme, contributing to the engagements and strengthening the visibility of Sierra Leone throughout the seminar.

The programme commenced with an official opening ceremony, setting the stage for a series of technical presentations, lectures, interactive discussions, institutional engagements, field visits and cultural activities.

Throughout the seminar, participants gained valuable insights into China’s approach to economic development and the strategic role of SMEs in driving innovation, employment, competitiveness and inclusive growth. Particular attention was given to the growing importance of digitalisation and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, in improving efficiency, strengthening risk management, enhancing decision-making and transforming organisational and business operations.

For NaCSA, the programme presented an important opportunity to engage beyond its traditional development environment and gain perspectives that can inform institutional effectiveness, innovation and development programming.

The seminar also provided an avenue for international networking and South-South cooperation, allowing participants to exchange experiences, establish professional relationships and explore opportunities for continued collaboration.

Beyond the technical sessions, participants were exposed to China’s rich history, culture and remarkable development journey through organised cultural and institutional visits.

The programme culminated on 24 August 2026 with a closing ceremony, during which participants reflected on the lessons and experiences gained over the two weeks and received certificates in recognition of their participation. A farewell luncheon subsequently brought participants and organisers together for a final exchange before the conclusion of the programme.

For Sierra Leone and NaCSA, the seminar represented more than a capacity-building exercise. It was an opportunity to learn from experience, strengthen international partnerships, showcase institutional capacity and bring home knowledge that can contribute to development impact.

As Sierra Leone continues to pursue inclusive growth, digital transformation and stronger international partnerships, engagements such as the China SME Capacity Building Seminar remain important avenues for strengthening human capacity and fostering practical knowledge exchange.

From *Sierra Leone to China*, NaCSA represented, connected and learned and returned with knowledge, partnerships and experiences to translate into impact.

NaCSA — Advancing social action, strengthening partnerships and contributing to Sierra Leone’s development journey.

For further information on this and other matters, please contact:*
*The Information, Education and Communication Unit**
*+23278155556/+23277022709/+23230518539*

15/08/2026

15/08/2026

As beneficiaries of the Youth-Led Enterprise Sub-Component* under the *Productive Social Safety Net and Youth Employment - PSSNYE Project* received their benefits, *Ms. Fowler*, an entrepreneur and one of the recipients, expressed her sincere appreciation to *His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone*, the *Implementing Partners*, and the *World Bank* for their commitment and support to youth development and economic empowerment.

In this video, Ms. Fowler walked viewers through the full process and procedures involved in the implementation of the sub-component. She explained that the journey began with a *public application process*, followed by a transparent *shortlisting of qualified applicants*. Successful applicants then participated in a formal *orientation session* to understand the objectives of the project and their responsibilities as beneficiaries.

A key requirement of the program was a *22-day compulsory training*. The training was designed to equip youth with essential business, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship skills to help them effectively manage and grow their enterprises.

As part of the implementation, the Youth-Led Enterprise Sub-Component is providing *cash grants ranging from USD 300 to qualifying beneficiaries*. The grants are being distributed across the country to support business start-ups and expansion.
Specifically:
- *1,500 beneficiaries* in *Makeni, Bo, Kenema, and Port Loko*
- *2,000 beneficiaries* in *Freetown*

Ms. Fowler noted that this intervention is already making a tangible impact by giving young entrepreneurs the capital and skills needed to build sustainable businesses, create jobs, and contribute to local economies. Women'sVoice Newspaper AYV Entertainment Slbc Broadcasting House, New England - Sierra Leone

02/08/2026

*UPDATE: Youth-Led Enterprise Support Grants – Makeni*

The Youth-Led Enterprise Support Project, funded by the World Bank and the Government of Sierra Leone, is supporting young entrepreneurs in Freetown, Bo, Kenema and Port Loko.

Grant payments to beneficiaries in Freetown, Bo and Kenema were completed successfully. In Makeni, however, payments for 1,500 trained beneficiaries were delayed due to discrepancies between some National Identification Numbers and bank account details, which required verification and correction.

These issues have now been largely resolved. To date, 1,144 beneficiaries in Makeni have received their grants. The remaining 356 verified beneficiaries have now been cleared for payment, and their grants will be disbursed no later than Thursday.

We appreciate the patience of all beneficiaries as these administrative issues were resolved.

04/07/2026

*NaCSA Commissioner reaffirmed Sierra Leone–China Cooperation at Governance Symposium*

*Freetown, Sierra Leone - 3 July 2026*

The Commissioner of the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), Ambassador Ernest M. Ndomahina, today on Friday, July 3rd 2026, participated in a Governance Experience Exchange Symposium held at the Chinese Embassy in Freetown to mark the *105th Anniversary* of the Founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

The event brought together government officials, diplomats, development practitioners, academics, and beneficiaries of Chinese-sponsored programmes to discuss governance, development, and international cooperation.

In his opening remarks, the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, *Ambassador Zhao Yong*, reflected on China’s development journey, highlighting the country’s achievements in economic growth and poverty reduction. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation and knowledge sharing in addressing global development challenges.

Speaking at the symposium, *Ambassador Ndomahina*, a former Ambassador of Sierra Leone to China, praised the longstanding friendship between Sierra Leone and China and acknowledged the positive impact of bilateral cooperation over the years.

He commended the leadership of His Excellency, *The President Dr. Julius Maada Bio* for strengthening international partnerships that support Sierra Leone’s development aspirations. He further encouraged participants who have benefited from exchange and training programmes in China to apply the knowledge gained towards improving their institutions and contributing to national development.

The Commissioner noted that the experiences shared during the symposium provided valuable insights that could support efforts to improve livelihoods, strengthen institutions, and advance Sierra Leone’s development objectives.

The symposium concluded with renewed commitment from participants to promote dialogue, mutual learning, and continued cooperation between Sierra Leone and China.

For further information on this and other matters, please contact:*
*The Information, Education and Communication Unit**
*+23278155556/+23277022709/+23230518539*

03/07/2026

*From Struggle to Strength: Kenema Receives SLL 4.7M*

*Part Two: Turning resilience into opportunity for 829 EI Beneficiaries’ future*

On Thursday, July 2nd, 2026, Kenema witnessed a defining moment in its journey toward economic empowerment. A total of 829 beneficiaries under the Economic Inclusion (EI) sub component received symbolic payments amounting to more than SLL 4.7 million. The ceremony drew a distinguished cross section of district stakeholders, including His Worship the Mayor, Thomas Karimu Baio; the Director General of the National Monitoring and Evaluation Agency, Dr. James Edwin; the Resident Minister, Hon. Gbessay Jusu Jaka Ngobeh; representatives from government Ministries, Departments and Agencies; and the Commissioner of the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) – Amb. Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina.

In his keynote address, the NaCSA Commissioner underscored that the grant is not merely financial assistance but a catalyst for transformation. *“This Four Million, Seven Hundred and Seven Thousand, Eight Hundred and Ninety One (4,707,891) Leones grant is already breathing life into Kenema’s economy. It is visible in the energy of our markets, in the determination of our youth, and in the dignity restored to families. By extension, it strengthens Sierra Leone’s economic fabric,”* he declared. The Commissioner expressed heartfelt gratitude to *President Dr. Julius Maada Bio* for prioritizing social protection and to the World Bank for their partnership. *He further appealed for additional financial support, stressing that many more deserving households across Sierra Leone are waiting for similar opportunities to transform their lives.*

Dr. James Edwin, Director General of the National Monitoring and Evaluation Agency, assured stakeholders of strict accountability. *“We have monitored the implementation to this point, and we will continue to do so to the latter. Every Leones disbursed must translate into measurable impact for the beneficiaries and the community,”* he affirmed.

The Resident Minister, Hon. Gbessay Jusu Jaka Ngobeh, commended NaCSA’s leadership and acknowledged the government and donor partners. *“This initiative is proof that poverty can be alleviated when resources are directed to the right people. We thank the government and our partners, and we urge them to provide more funding. This is the surest way to uplift our people,”* he stated.

The most powerful testimonies came from the beneficiaries themselves, whose stories reflect resilience turned into opportunity. Mariatu, a young mother and petty trader, has long balanced the demands of motherhood with the struggle of running a small trading business. With the grant in hand, her vision is clear: *“With this money, I will expand my small business and ensure my children stay in school. Education is my priority.”* For Mariatu, the grant is more than capital — it is a lifeline that secures her children’s future and strengthens her role as both provider and nurturer.

Mamie, a farmer with big dreams, has tilled the soil for years, often limited by poor tools and scarce resources. The grant now gives her the chance to transform her farm into a source of abundance. *“I plan to buy improved seeds and tools. This grant will help me increase my harvest and feed more families.”* Her ambition is not only to grow more crops but to contribute to food security in Kenema, ensuring that her community benefits from her success.

Isatu, a youth entrepreneur and mentor, represents the energy and creativity of Kenema’s youth. With her entrepreneurial spirit, she sees the grant as a stepping stone to empowerment for herself and others. *“I will invest in tailoring equipment. My goal is to train other young women so we can all earn a living.”* Her vision extends beyond personal gain; she wants to build a network of skilled young women who can sustain themselves and inspire others to break free from poverty.

The symbolic payment in Kenema is more than a financial transaction; it is a statement of resilience turned into opportunity. With strong leadership, donor support, and community determination, the SLL 4.7M disbursement marks a new chapter — one where families rise above hardship, youth embrace entrepreneurship, and the district itself becomes a beacon of Sierra Leone’s inclusive growth.

*For further information on this and other matters, please contact:*
*The Information, Education and Communication Unit*
*📞 +23278155556 / +23277022709 / +23230518539*

02/07/2026

*From Struggle to Strength: Pujehun Celebrates NaCSA’s EI Grant*

*Part One – Stories of Hope from Pujehun Economic Inclusion Beneficiaries*

The National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) has completed payments to beneficiaries of the Economic Inclusion (EI) Grant in Pujehun District. This landmark initiative, funded by the World Bank and the Government of Sierra Leone, has reached 842 extremely poor households. More than 60 percent of these households are led by women, while 20 percent include persons with disabilities—underscoring the program’s commitment to inclusivity and equity.

The grant forms part of Sierra Leone’s broader Productive Social Safety Nets and Youth Employment (PSSNYE) project, designed to strengthen social protection, expand economic opportunities, and empower vulnerable citizens to build sustainable livelihoods.

In Pujehun, the atmosphere was filled with emotion as beneficiaries gathered for the symbolic payment ceremony. For many, this was not just financial assistance—it was a lifeline. The Commissioner of NaCSA praised the leadership of His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, highlighting the President’s dedication to job creation and poverty alleviation.

*“I must start by thanking the President for his remarkable directives in ensuring that Sierra Leoneans are uplifted, and also the World Bank for the technical and financial support. Our joint efforts have created remarkable impacts, and with additional support, we are sure of reaching millions of other poor Sierra Leoneans,”* he said.

The District Chairperson of Pujehun District Council expressed heartfelt appreciation to the government and donor partners. He emphasized the practical impact of the grant, noting: *“Our people needed this. The sum of Five Thousand, Seven Hundred and Fifty-Seven Leones is more than enough for everybody to start a business, and I will ensure that I follow up.”*

Resident Minister – South, John Abu, echoed these sentiments, calling for more funds to extend the program to additional communities. Representatives from the Ministry of Trade, Ministry of Agriculture, Office of National Security, and traditional leaders also voiced their support, stressing the importance of sustaining such interventions to uplift Sierra Leone’s poorest citizens.

Beyond the speeches and official statements, the true impact of the Economic Inclusion Grant was reflected in the voices of the beneficiaries themselves. Their stories painted a picture of resilience, determination, and hope for a better future.

Aminata Kaikai (pseudo name), a widow from Pujehun, shared her plans to invest in a palm oil business. For years, she had struggled to provide for her four children after the loss of her husband, relying on small, irregular earnings from petty trading. With the grant, she now sees a path toward stability. *“This grant is my chance to stand on my own and provide for my children,”* she said, her voice filled with determination. Aminata explained that palm oil is in high demand locally, and with a modest start-up, she hopes to grow her business into a sustainable source of income.

Mohamed Kamara, a young farmer from Pujehun, spoke with optimism about how the grant would transform his agricultural work. Farming has always been his livelihood, but limited resources kept his yields low. With the grant, he plans to purchase improved seeds and farming tools.*8“With better inputs, I can increase my harvest and earn more to support my family,”* he noted. Mohamed believes that investing in agriculture will not only benefit his household but also contribute to food security in his community.

For Fatmata Conteh, a woman living with a disability, the grant was more than financial support—it was recognition and inclusion. She has long faced challenges in accessing opportunities, often sidelined because of her condition. With the grant, she intends to expand her petty trading business, selling household items and foodstuffs in her neighborhood. *“I will use the money to expand my petty trading. For the first time, I feel included and supported,”* she remarked with pride. Fatmata’s testimony highlighted the program’s commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind in national development efforts.

The Economic Inclusion Grant has provided immediate relief while laying the foundation for long-term resilience. By enabling households to start small businesses, invest in farming, and expand trading activities, the program is helping families move from survival to stability.
With continued support from the Government of Sierra Leone and its partners, NaCSA hopes to expand the program to reach even more households across the country. The initiative stands as a powerful example of how social protection can transform lives, foster dignity, and build a stronger, more inclusive Sierra Leone.

*For further information on this and other matters, please contact:*
*The Information, Education and Communication Unit*
*📞 +23278155556 / +23277022709 / +23230518539*

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