VP Juldeh Jalloh Articulates Case for Africa’s Economic Future

Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, delivered a compelling address at the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), asserting a bold vision for Africa’s economic future. Representing President Julius Maada Bio, VP Jalloh joined an influential assembly of global leaders, financiers, and development experts at the Global Citizen Now-organized event, which focused on bridging the significant financing gap in the Global South.

In a powerful declaration, Vice President Jalloh emphasized that “Africa must move beyond aid dependency.” Drawing on his extensive experience in development, he articulated that a reliance solely on foreign aid is unsustainable and insufficient. “Official Development Assistance (ODA) alone cannot meet Africa’s pressing needs,” he stated, adding that “the future lies in smart policies that unlock private investment.”

He then presented Sierra Leone as a compelling case study, urging other African governments to strengthen financial regulations, improve governance frameworks, and create investor-friendly environments. This proactive stance garnered immediate support from influential figures, including Gates Foundation CEO, Mark Suzman, who lauded the Vice President’s vision as “essential for Africa’s growth.”

The address underscored a critical pivot for Africa, moving towards self-sufficiency and robust economic partnerships that prioritize sustainable growth and private sector engagement over traditional aid models.