By Aminata Turay
Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has called for a renewed focus on strengthening Africa’s public service institutions, describing human resource management as “the heartbeat of effective governance and sustainable development.”
He made the remarks while opening the 10th Annual Conference of the Africa Public Sector Human Resource Managers Network (APS-HRMNet) at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown on November 4, 2025. The Vice President welcomed delegates from across Africa, commending their shared vision to build capable states that can deliver on the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
VP Juldeh Jalloh outlined Sierra Leone’s progress in public sector reform, highlighting key initiatives such as the Public Sector Reform Master Plan 2024–2030, the Wages and Compensation Commission, the biometric payroll system, and the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act.
These efforts, he said, demonstrate government’s commitment to professionalism, accountability, and inclusivity. “People are at the heart of administration,” he noted. “A modern, skilled, and inclusive workforce is essential to building strong and resilient institutions.”
Drawing on his experience in governance and development as top-level former United Nations officer, the Vice President emphasised the importance of leadership, innovation, and digital transformation within Africa’s public sector. He urged countries to invest in training and technology while upholding principles of transparency and good governance.
“Africa’s transformation depends on strong institutions and capable public servants,” he said, encouraging delegates to use the conference as a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Minister of Public Administration and Political Affairs, Hon. Amara Kallon, also reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to continuous reform, emphasising government’s focus on improving human resource management, promoting lifelong learning, and strengthening ethics in public service is central to improving delivery and citizen trust. “Effective governance rests on the capacity, creativity, and integrity of public servants,” he said.
Deputy President James Wasagami of APS-HRMNet, delivering remarks on behalf of the president, Mr Xavier Mrope Daudi, expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Sierra Leone for hosting the landmark event.
He said the conference themed —“Human Resource Management and Development in Public Service: A Catalyst for Africa’s Agenda 2063”—underscores the vital role of HR leaders in driving continental transformation. The three-day meeting will feature discussions and presentations on innovation, leadership, and reform strategies, with delegates expected to develop actionable frameworks that advance effective, people-centred governance across Africa.
