AGP Executive Report

Urban Climate Governance: Forty mayors worldwide signed a pact led by C40 to shape how AI-driven data centres are sited, powered, and regulated—aiming to protect city water, electricity, land, and climate targets as data-centre growth accelerates. Local Flood & Health Risks: Residents along Freetown’s Hill Side Bypass Road say an abandoned drainage clearing project is worsening flooding and sanitation, raising fears of mosquito-borne disease during peak rains. Policy Capacity for Climate Decisions: Sierra Leone’s MoPED started Phase 2 of advanced training for policy and planning staff, focusing on turning research and evaluations into decision-ready policy papers, briefs, and project proposals. Green Finance: Sierra Leone’s banking and microfinance sectors adopted the Sierra Leone Voluntary Sustainable Finance Principles, a sector-wide ESG lending and risk framework. Jobs & Youth Resilience: A World Bank youth forum stressed that Sierra Leone and the region need faster systems and investments to move young people from education into productive work and enterprises. Tourism + Environment: Sierra Leone’s tourism minister urged the diaspora to invest in tourism and cultural sectors, linking tourism to environmental protection and forest-community livelihoods. Regional Security for the Blue Economy: A new Gulf of Guinea maritime task force—led by six countries including Sierra Leone—targets piracy and other threats that disrupt trade and development.

Data & Climate Governance: Forty mayors worldwide have signed a pact led by C40 Cities to set common rules for AI-driven data centres—pushing for cleaner power, smarter siting, responsible water use, and community benefits as cities warn about strain on electricity, water, and housing. Green Finance: Sierra Leone’s banking and microfinance sectors have adopted the Sierra Leone Voluntary Sustainable Finance Principles, a sector-wide ESG lending and risk framework rolled out on 23 June. Flooding & Health: Freetown residents along the Hill Side Bypass Road say an abandoned drainage clearing project is worsening flooding and sanitation, with fears of rising mosquito-borne disease during the rainy season. Labour Compliance: Sierra Leone’s Labour Ministry stepped up inspections on the Masiaka–Waterloo Highway, warning foreign workers found without valid permits and issuing safety improvement orders at factories. Food Systems: WFP and the EU are funding child nutrition and local food systems in Sierra Leone with €11.5m (about 265m leones), including upgrades to processing facilities and support for smallholders to better withstand climate shocks. Land Administration: Government plans an online portal for global verification of Sierra Leone land ownership records, alongside new geospatial tools to reduce boundary disputes.

Urban Climate Governance: Forty mayors worldwide signed a pact to set conditions for sustainable AI data centre development, pushing for clean energy, smarter site selection, limits on water use, and community benefits as cities face rising power and housing pressure. Public Health & Flooding: In Ghana, Zoomlion began nationwide emergency fumigation and disinfection starting in flood-ravaged Greater Accra, targeting sanitation hazards left by recent floods to reduce disease risks. Food Systems for Resilience: The EU and WFP backed a €11.5m (about 265m leones) project in Sierra Leone to strengthen child nutrition and local food systems, including upgrades to food processing facilities and training for smallholder farmers to better withstand climate shocks. Climate-Informed Land & Mapping: Sierra Leone plans an online land ownership verification portal for the diaspora and is rolling out modern geospatial tools like drone mapping and CORS to improve survey accuracy and reduce boundary disputes. Agriculture Jobs Push: The World Bank approved a $40m IDA grant for Sierra Leone’s SAVIG project to boost agricultural value chains, productivity, private investment, and job creation while improving food security. Inclusive Adaptation: Sierra Leone’s albinism group SLAPWA urged the government to include people with albinism in climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction plans, including access to protective products like sunscreen. Water Security Research: Scientists are mapping Africa’s underground water supplies to identify where groundwater can be safely extracted in a hotter future, aiming for sustainable and equitable use.

Climate Finance: The IMF has approved about $211.5m in new climate resilience support for Sierra Leone, alongside an immediate $31.7m disbursement under its Extended Credit Facility review, as the country faces low reserves and debt risks. Energy & Access: VP Juldeh Jalloh highlighted energy gains in London, including electricity access rising from 17% to 36% and progress tied to the MCC energy compact and new solar generation. Water Security: Scientists are mapping Africa’s underground water to guide safer groundwater extraction as hotter conditions bring more erratic rainfall and drought pressure. Restoration With People in Mind: A restoration story shows how better monitoring and community jobs can move projects beyond just counting trees. Urban Sanitation: Freetown’s deputy mayor urged residents to change waste habits, warning poor sanitation worsens flooding and disease. Inclusive Climate Adaptation: The albinism group SLAPWA calls for sunscreen and stronger inclusion of people with albinism in climate adaptation and disaster risk plans. Regional Cooperation: Sierra Leone and Liberia signed a tax cooperation deal to tackle cross-border evasion through simultaneous examinations. Health Alert (Region): DR Congo’s Ebola cases have crossed 1,000, with response teams continuing surveillance and prevention.

Climate Finance: The IMF has approved about $211.5m for Sierra Leone under its Resilience and Sustainability Facility to help the country withstand climate-related shocks, alongside an immediate $31.7m disbursement from its Extended Credit Facility review. Water & Resilience: Scientists say Africa’s surface waters are becoming more erratic as hotter conditions drive swings between intense evaporation and extreme rainfall, while groundwater is an “invisible safety net” that must be mapped and managed for safe, equitable use. Inclusive Climate Adaptation: The Sierra Leone Albinism Association is urging the government to include people with albinism in climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction plans, warning of rising UV risks and calling for free or subsidized sunscreen through public health facilities. Flood Preparedness & City Sanitation: Sierra Leone’s NDMA is rolling out a flood preparedness campaign ahead of heavy rain in Freetown, while the Freetown Deputy Mayor is pushing residents to adopt responsible sanitation habits to cut flooding, disease, and environmental damage. Regional Cooperation: Liberia and Sierra Leone signed a tax cooperation deal to improve cross-border compliance and curb evasion—an indirect boost for funding public services, including climate and environmental work. Health Watch (Regional): DR Congo’s confirmed Ebola cases have crossed 1,000, with response teams continuing surveillance and prevention in affected provinces.

Ebola Update: DR Congo’s confirmed Ebola cases have surged past 1,000, reaching 1,003 with 254 deaths, as health teams intensify surveillance and prevention across Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu. Climate Finance: The IMF has approved about $211.5m for Sierra Leone under its Resilience and Sustainability Facility to help the country withstand climate-related shocks, alongside an immediate $31.7m disbursement from its Extended Credit Facility review. Agriculture Jobs: The World Bank approved a $40m IDA grant for Sierra Leone’s Sustainable Agricultural Value-chains Intensification for Growth (SAVIG) project, aiming to boost productivity, private investment and jobs in key value chains. Flood Preparedness: Sierra Leone’s NDMA has launched a public awareness campaign in flood-prone Freetown communities, urging residents to stop dumping waste into drains and waterways to reduce rainy-season flooding. Sanitation Push: Freetown’s Deputy Mayor Kweku Lisk urged residents to adopt responsible waste disposal, saying behaviour change is crucial to tackling the city’s sanitation and flooding problems. Renewables & Energy: VP Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh highlighted energy gains, including rising electricity access and solar expansion, while also pointing to new investment momentum. Inclusive Climate Adaptation: SLAPWA is calling for persons with albinism to be included in national climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction plans, warning of rising UV risks. Regional Development Finance: EBID welcomed AfDB as its first institutional shareholder, with AfDB committing $30m equity and a $70m long-term line of credit, including support for renewable energy across West Africa.

Climate Finance: The IMF has approved about $211.5 million for Sierra Leone under its Resilience and Sustainability Facility to help the country withstand climate-related shocks, alongside an immediate $31.7 million disbursement from its Extended Credit Facility review. Flood Preparedness: Sierra Leone’s NDMA has launched a public flood-awareness campaign in flood-prone Freetown communities, urging residents to stop dumping waste into drains and waterways ahead of heavy rains. Renewables Push: Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh says energy access has risen from 17% to 36%, pointing to solar expansion and the MCC energy compact as key steps toward a more reliable power system. Inclusive Adaptation: The Sierra Leone Association of Persons Living with Albinism (SLAPWA) warns that rising UV risks linked to climate change demand inclusion in national adaptation and disaster risk plans, including free or subsidized sunscreen. Regional Youth & Climate Action: Sierra Leone hosted the first Mano River Union Youth Connekt Summit, with climate action and innovation on the agenda for young leaders across the region. Sanitation & Health: Freetown’s Deputy Mayor Kweku Lisk urged residents to change waste-disposal habits, saying poor sanitation worsens flooding and disease during the rainy season. Energy Investment: EBID welcomed the AfDB as its first institutional shareholder, with $30 million equity and a $70 million long-term line of credit, including support for renewable energy projects across West Africa. Drug Supply Accountability: The National Medical Supplies Agency warned staff against drug pilferage, citing the direct harm theft can cause to public health.

Climate Finance: The IMF has approved a new $211.5m package for Sierra Leone under its Resilience and Sustainability Facility, aimed at helping the country withstand climate-related shocks, alongside an immediate $31.7m disbursement from its Extended Credit Facility review. Flood Preparedness: NDMA has launched a public awareness campaign in flood-prone Freetown communities, urging residents to protect drainage and waterways ahead of heavy rains. Inclusive Climate Adaptation: The Sierra Leone Association of Persons Living with Albinism (SLAPWA) is calling for albinism inclusion in national climate adaptation and disaster risk plans, warning that rising UV exposure is worsening health risks. Energy & Renewables: VP Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh highlighted energy gains, including rising electricity access and support from major energy investments, while AXIAN Energy announced a $60m financing facility to expand renewable projects across Africa. Ocean & Blue Economy: Global leaders announced $6.4bn in new ocean commitments at the Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, with support for fisheries, climate resilience and the blue economy. Governance & Accountability: Sierra Leone’s Anti-Corruption Commission reported strong participation at an African anti-corruption assembly, including the launch of a new anti-corruption research and studies centre.

Climate Finance: The IMF has approved about US$211.5 million for Sierra Leone under its Resilience and Sustainability Facility to help the country withstand climate-related shocks, alongside an immediate US$31.7 million disbursement from its Extended Credit Facility review. Flood Preparedness: NDMA has launched a public awareness campaign in flood-prone Freetown communities, urging residents to protect drainage and waterways during the rainy season. Inclusive Climate Adaptation: The Sierra Leone Association of Persons Living with Albinism (SLAPWA) is calling for albinism-inclusive climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction plans, including free or subsidized sunscreen. Youth & Climate Action: Sierra Leone hosted the first Mano River Union Youth Connekt Summit in Freetown, with climate action among the summit’s focus areas. Renewables Push: VP Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh highlighted energy gains, including rising electricity access and solar expansion, during a Civic Day series in London. Plastic Pollution Policy: Sierra Leone’s wider region debate continues as polystyrene ban plans face pushback over costs and jobs, with manufacturers demanding more time and support.

Climate Finance: The IMF has approved about $211.5 million for Sierra Leone under its Resilience and Sustainability Facility to help the country withstand climate-related shocks, while also completing its third review of the Extended Credit Facility with an immediate $31.7 million disbursement. Energy Transition: Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh told a London Civic Day forum that electricity access has risen from 17% to 36%, citing major investments including an MCC compact (about $480m) and new solar generation. Storm Preparedness in Freetown: The NDMA has launched a flood awareness campaign in flood-prone communities, urging residents to protect drainage and waterways during the rainy season. Flood Risk Messaging: NDMA’s sensitisation targets areas like Jui, Portee, Wellington, Shell, Up Gun and the PZ axis, using early warning jingles and public safety messages. Ocean & Blue Economy Commitments: Global leaders announced $6.4 billion in new ocean action commitments at the Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, with funding for fisheries, coastal protection and climate resilience. Tourism Regulation: Sierra Leone’s tourism authorities say noise rules along Lumley Beach will be enforced, with music switched off by 2:00 a.m. to protect the tourism sector.

Climate Finance: The IMF has approved a new Sierra Leone arrangement worth about $211.5 million, with an immediate $31.7 million disbursement, aimed at helping the country withstand climate shocks. Flood Preparedness: Sierra Leone’s NDMA has launched a public awareness campaign in flood-prone Freetown communities (Jui, Portee, Wellington, Shell, Up Gun and the PZ axis), urging residents to protect drainage and waterways during the rainy season. Ocean & Blue Economy: Over $6.4 billion in new commitments were announced at the 2026 Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, including support for ocean conservation, sustainable fisheries and climate resilience—highlighting Africa’s growing role in blue economy action. Energy Transition: AXIAN Energy secured a $60 million financing package to expand renewable energy projects across Africa, boosting clean power infrastructure growth. Governance & Climate Science: Sierra Leone is among countries backing “Friends of Science” at UN climate talks in Bonn, pushing for decisions grounded in the best available climate science. Waste & Pollution Policy: Noise pollution rules are set to be enforced along Lumley Beach, with music switched off by 2:00 a.m. to protect tourism sustainability.

Severe Weather in Freetown: NDMA has launched a flood preparedness campaign across flood-prone communities in Freetown, urging residents to stop dumping waste into drains and waterways as heavy rains continue. Storm Aftermath: Reports of severe overnight storms also highlighted how quickly extreme weather can damage homes and power lines, with residents urged to stay alert and follow safety guidance. Fuel Storage & Resilience: An Op-Ed spotlights Sierra Leone’s fuel storage capacity as a key, often overlooked infrastructure need for economic growth and resilience, arguing that energy reliability underpins transport, trade and everyday services. ECOWAS Vision 2050 Push: ECOWAS and SLAJ held a Vision 2050 popularisation event in Sierra Leone, focusing on sustainable development and public awareness of regional programmes. Ocean Action Funding: Global leaders announced $6.4bn in ocean commitments at the Our Ocean Conference, with emphasis on climate resilience and sustainable fisheries—relevant to West Africa’s blue economy. Energy Sector Collaboration: AEC and SPE Africa signed an MoU to boost technical collaboration for sustainable, bankable energy projects. Tourism Regulation: Noise pollution rules along Lumley Beach were set for stricter enforcement, with music cut off by 2:00 a.m. Climate Science at UN Talks: Sierra Leone is among countries backing “Friends of Science” to keep UN climate decisions grounded in best available science.

Coastal Noise Crackdown: Sierra Leone’s tourism authorities say Lumley Beach entertainment venues must switch off music by 2:00 a.m., with Sierra Leone Police enforcement and closures for repeat offenders—framed as protecting the “integrity and sustainability” of tourism. Plastic Pollution Policy: Ghana’s polystyrene foam ban plan (effective Jan 1, 2027) is drawing pushback from manufacturers, who want an 18-month extension and a GH¢1.493 billion bailout—an issue that matters regionally as foam waste and sanitation pressures grow. Climate-Ready Cities: Freetown City Council backed a youth-led climate initiative through YICA’s Young Women Climate Mentorship Programme, spotlighting inclusive leadership for community climate action. Regional Climate Resilience via Engineering: West African engineering stakeholders are calling for unified standards and professional integration, with a 2026 Freetown conference aimed at turning frameworks into action for infrastructure, energy expansion and climate resilience. Food Security Communications: FAO urged West Africa to use stronger storytelling and media work to improve food security and resilience as climate shocks strain agriculture. Storm Impacts (Global Alert): Severe storms in Kentucky and Indiana brought heavy rain, damaging winds and radar-detected tornadoes—another reminder of how fast extreme weather can escalate.

Hybrid Influence Watch: Ukraine-linked reporting says Russia is expanding a “Russian Houses” network across Africa to shape public opinion, coordinated via Rossotrudnichestvo and a 2024-linked diplomacy group. Plastic Policy Pressure: Ghana’s plastic manufacturers are asking for an 18-month delay and financial relief over a planned 2027 polystyrene foam ban, arguing jobs and investment are at risk. Climate Science at UN Talks: Sierra Leone is among countries backing “Friends of Science” at UN climate talks, warning fossil fuel interests are trying to undermine climate science and the 1.5°C limit. Local Climate Action: Freetown City Council supports YICA’s Young Women Climate Mentorship Programme, backing youth-led climate leadership. Waste & Sanitation: AdelaideS Street Police Station in Freetown received free fumigation under a CSR sanitation push. Food Security & Media: FAO urges West Africa to use strategic storytelling to strengthen food security and resilience, with Sierra Leone among participating countries. Blue Economy Push: Ghana unveils an Africa-first Blue Food Innovation Hub to scale tilapia and catfish investment as marine catches thin. Regional Peace: President Bio’s ECOWAS-linked talks with Mauritania focus on Sahel security threats like terrorism and trafficking.

Freetown Waste & Youth Climate Action: Freetown City Council backed a youth-led climate initiative through YICA’s Young Women Climate Mentorship Programme, spotlighting young leadership in climate action. The council also moved on waste services with a new price list for “Dorti Mus Go” collection. Food Security & Media for Climate Resilience: FAO urged West African partners to use strategic storytelling to strengthen food security and resilience, while the Press Union of Liberia pushed FAO to actively use mainstream and digital media to amplify sustainable agriculture and hunger-reduction work. Blue Economy Push: Ghana announced Africa’s first Blue Food Innovation Hub to scale tilapia and catfish farming as marine stocks thin from overfishing and pollution, aiming to mobilise at least $10m in private investment by 2032. Urban Climate Planning: Jeddah joined UN-Habitat and C40’s Urban Planning Accelerator to speed up climate-responsive city planning, targeting heat and water stress. Sierra Leone Education Evidence Link: Sierra Leone’s education ministry signed an MoU with J-PAL Africa to strengthen evidence-based policymaking, including improving the school subsidy programme.

Food Security & Resilience: FAO urged West African communication teams to use strategic storytelling to boost food security and resilience as climate shocks strain agriculture. Economic Outlook: The World Bank cut its Sub-Saharan Africa growth forecast for 2026, citing higher energy costs and weaker demand—an added pressure on fragile economies. Urban Climate Planning: Jeddah joined UN-Habitat and C40’s Urban Planning Accelerator to speed up climate-responsive city planning, including emissions cuts and ecosystem restoration. Local Climate Action: Freetown City Council backed YICA’s Young Women Climate Mentorship Programme, supporting youth leadership in community climate action. Waste & Sanitation: Hashaston Services carried out free fumigation at Adelaide Street Police Station under a CSR hygiene push, with plans to expand to other stations. Blue Economy: Ghana announced Africa’s first Blue Food Innovation Hub to revive fisheries and aquaculture, targeting $10m in private investment by 2032. Mangroves & Wetlands: NPAA launched a Sierra Leone chapter of the Global Mangrove Alliance to strengthen wetland conservation. Clean Cooking Roadmap: Sierra Leone convened a strategic workshop to advance the national clean cooking roadmap. Regional Security & Development: President Bio’s ECOWAS talks with Mauritania focused on Sahel peace, stability, and sustainable development. Education Evidence: Sierra Leone’s MBSSE signed an MoU with J-PAL Africa to strengthen evidence-based education planning and improve the school subsidy programme.