Freetown: The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), in collaboration with UNICEF Sierra Leone, has inaugurated a five-day national validation and training workshop centered on the Management and Utilization of the Sierra Leone National Development Tracking Dashboard for the Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) 2024-2030. The event is taking place at the Atlantic Hotel, Beach Road, Lumbley, Freetown.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the workshop is designed to enhance the delivery of indicators for the MTNDP 2024-2030 and the Big Five Game Changers. It aims to establish a precise digital data-driven reporting system by validating the Sierra Leone National Development Tracking Dashboard. This validation process is crucial for effectively tracking MTNDP milestones and annual targets. The training also seeks to build the capacity of Ministry, Department, and Agency (MDA) staff in data collection, analysis, and reporting using the digital platform.
The workshop brings together key stakeholders from various MDAs to ensure a collaborative approach to development planning and implementation. The Medium-Term National Development Plan aims to transform Sierra Leone into an inclusive and green middle-income economy by 2030, focusing on the Big Five Game Changers, which include food security and agricultural productivity, human capital development, youth employment, technology and infrastructure, and enhancing public service delivery.
The workshop is expected to improve the capacity of MDAs to track progress, make informed decisions, and enhance development outcomes in alignment with the MTNDP and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNICEF Country Representative Dr. Robert expressed gratitude to MoPED for its leadership and acknowledged the support from development partners, including the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) and technical support from CSF in India.
Dr. Robert praised the government's strategic plan, noting its potential for progress and development in Sierra Leone. He emphasized the importance of tracking progress and measuring the impact of public investment on citizens' lives. He highlighted the benefits of embracing digital technology and data-driven decision-making, citing potential increases in transparency, accountability, and investment.
Dr. Robert further stressed the importance of data in informing decision-making and driving progress. The National Development Tracking Dashboard is expected to provide an open-source platform for citizens, media, and development partners to access data and track progress. He stated that the dashboard will change the narrative of Sierra Leone, showcasing its progress and potential for investment, serving as a tool for investment by providing macroeconomic indicators and data to attract investors.
Dr. Sheka Bangura, Director of Planning, Policy, and Research (PPR) at MoPED, expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude for the commencement of the National Development Tracking Dashboard Validation and Training. He described it as a significant milestone in Sierra Leone's development journey, marking a shift towards digital and data-driven decision-making. Dr. Bangura praised UNICEF for their support and acknowledged the dedication of his colleagues in successfully pursuing and coordinating this initiative, emphasizing the enhancement of citizen participation in the development process.
Dr. Bangura concluded by acknowledging the contributions of Dr. Robert and Dr. DeVita in helping to transform Sierra Leone through this initiative.