Kerefa Kargbo Pledges to Advance Fiscal Reforms
Freetown, Sierra Leone – September 3rd, 2026
The Ministry of Finance on Thursday formally ushered in a new era of leadership, with the official handing over ceremony between outgoing Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, and incoming Minister, Karefa A. F. Kargbo. The event, held at the Ministry’s Conference Hall on George Street, marked the transition following President Julius Maada Bio’s appointment of Kargbo to the Finance portfolio.
Opening the ceremony, Principal Deputy Financial Secretary and Acting Financial Secretary, Samuel E. B. Momoh, described the occasion as a significant moment in the Ministry’s leadership journey. He commended Bangura for steering the economy through a difficult period and advancing fiscal reforms, while emphasising that government is a continuum. Welcoming the new Minister, Momoh highlighted Kargbo’s extensive experience in public finance and expressed confidence in his ability to strengthen the Ministry’s work.
In his farewell remarks, Bangura reflected on his three-year tenure, describing it as an honour to serve. He thanked President Bio for the trust reposed in him and acknowledged the collective efforts of staff, MDAs, and development partners in navigating economic challenges and implementing reforms aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability. He assured his successor of continued support and noted that the Ministry had documented progress since 2023, including the country’s economic position and institutional commitments.
Taking over the portfolio, Minister Kargbo expressed gratitude for the appointment and commended his predecessor’s stewardship. He pledged to sustain the gains achieved, while focusing on strengthening fiscal performance, citing the supplementary budget as part of ongoing efforts to improve outcomes. Kargbo promised an open-door policy and close collaboration with MDAs to ensure timely delivery of government targets and reforms.
Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Kenyeh Barlay, lauded Bangura’s service and welcomed Kargbo, expressing optimism about continued cooperation between the two ministries. Senior Deputy Financial Secretary, Mariatu Brown, also extended a welcome, while Deputy Minister of Finance II, Isata Marah, delivered closing courtesies. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of a gift of appreciation to Bangura in recognition of his service.
Heads and representatives of key agencies under the Ministry, including MoPED, NRA, FIA, and AGD, were present at the event, underscoring the importance of the transition for Sierra Leone’s fiscal and economic governance.
©️MoF Communications
