In less than 2 months  to 2025, FS here provides a cautious projection into Sierra Leone's partnership with the World Bank viz-a-viz the bank’s commitments to the country in the last 5 years. This projection considers historical trends and current global economic outlooks.

Financial commitments to Sierra Leone declined marginally in the current fiscal year of 2024. At 159 million United States dollar, the account reflects a 21.6 percent drop – about 44 million US dollar - from the 203 million US dollar figure of previous year of 2023.

This commitments are inclusive of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA). Financial commitments to Sierra Leone in 2020 stood at $150 million, a period coincided with the global pandemic, which led to significant economic disruptions worldwide. Despite the adverse conditions, the commitment represented a crucial effort to support the nation’s developmental projects, particularly in healthcare and infrastructure.

As 2024 commitments fell to $159 million, reflecting a sharp decline of approximately 21.6%. This downturn raises concerns about the sustainability of international support amid changing political climates and potential economic stagnation. It indicates a strategic shift in funding priorities by international donors or concerns over ongoing governance issues in Sierra Leone.

The overall trend from 2020 to 2024 reveals a fluctuating but generally supportive environment for Sierra Leone’s development funding.

The commitments surged to $210 million in 2021, reflecting an increase of 40% year-on-year. The sharp increase in 2021 and steady recovery in 2023 demonstrate international cooperation, while the decline in 2024 point to emerging challenges in governance and economic management. This can be attributed to international responses to the pandemic and heightened focus on public health initiatives, as well as infrastructure development. The rise also signifies growing confidence among international donors regarding the government’s ability to utilize these funds effectively.

In 2022, commitments dipped to $196 million, a decrease of approximately 6.7% from the previous year. This decline could be linked to several factors, including fluctuating economic conditions, donor fatigue, and adjustments in funding strategies by international institutions. Nonetheless, the funding remained robust, given the realignment of priorities amid ongoing global challenges.

Fiscal earnestness rebounded in 2023, rising slightly to $203 million. The stable funding environment have been influenced by improved governance measures and strategic alignment between the government’s priorities and donor expectations. Enhanced focus on key sectors like education, health, and economic recovery likely encouraged renewed support from the IBRD and IDA.

Furthermore, the year-on-year commitment figures underscore the importance of maintaining stability and effective governance to attract sustainable international support. Given that these commitments often hinge on the achievements of prior projects (with $74M Sierra Leone Connectivity and Agricultural Market Infrastructure Projects approved on May 29, 2024, to end the year 2029), Sierra Leone must work steadily to enhance its track record in utilizing these funds effectively.

Given the significant decrease in 2024, it would not be unreasonable to forecast a rebound for 2025. Considering an expected stabilization in governance and possible international economic improvements, FS projects approximately $190 million in commitments to Sierra Leone in fiscal 2025. This estimate factors in potential adjustments as donors recalibrate their strategies to tackle recurring challenges faced by the country while aiming for more optimistic, sustained growth. The anticipated ramp-up of existing initiatives and new programs aimed at climate adaptation and economic diversification. Sierra Leone's partnership with the World Bank, through both IBRD and IDA, has been pivotal in attracting funding necessary for developmental projects across the country for growth and stability.

While recent years showcase a commitment to supporting the nation, the fluctuations highlight the need for continued engagement, transparency, and sound governance to ensure ongoing support from global partners. As the country prepares for 2025, focusing on institutional frameworks and strategic alignment with donor should take the centre stage.