By Abdul Kamara

As the FY2026 bilateral budget discussions continue, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) and the Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation (MoCTI) have presented their funding requests, outlining ambitious plans to strengthen governance, expand digital services, and promote civic participation across Sierra Leone.

Acting Director of Government Information Services, Emmanuel A.B. Turay, said MoICE’s priorities for 2026 to 2028 include modernizing information policies, developing a national records and archives programme, and boosting civic engagement. He emphasized that the ministry intends to fully implement the Open Government Partnership, ensuring greater transparency, accountability, and public access to information.

According to Turay, the ministry’s vision also extends to schools, where the expansion of civic clubs will help foster active citizenship among young people. Plans are also underway to improve government communication systems, including broadcasting and printing services, and to provide digital resources that will enhance outreach. To meet these targets, MoICE is requesting a budget of NLe92.2 million for 2026.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation has submitted a budget proposal of NLe34.84 million. Deputy Minister Paul Tucker explained that the ministry will focus on expanding e-government services, increasing official government email accounts from 2,000 to 3,000, and introducing digital tools to improve service delivery.

He highlighted broadband expansion and nationwide digital access as key priorities, adding that stronger digital frameworks will make government operations more efficient and allow for data-driven decision-making.

Chief Director Mohamed M. Jalloh noted that the ministry’s work has often been hampered by limited tools and mobility challenges. However, he said the proposed investments are designed to reposition Sierra Leone as a regional leader in technology and innovation, delivering services that are efficient, inclusive, and sustainable.

Both ministries stressed that their proposals are aimed at building a modern, transparent, and citizen-focused government while laying the foundation for Sierra Leone’s digital transformation and long-term development.