By: Alhaji A. Barrie
Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has called for bold and sustained public sector reforms as the foundation for Africa’s transformation agenda. Speaking at the opening of the 10th Annual Conference of the Africa Public Sector Human Resource Managers Network (APS-HRMnet) in Freetown, the Vice President emphasized that Africa’s development goals cannot be achieved without a professional, accountable, and citizen-focused public service.
The conference, which attracted over 400 international participants from across the continent, brought together administrators, HR professionals, and policy makers to share strategies for strengthening governance and human resource management.
Administrators Applaud the Reform Agenda
Senior administrators at the gathering echoed the Vice President’s message, highlighting the positive impact of reforms already underway across Africa:
Delegates from Rwanda and Ghana noted that digitized HR systems have reduced bureaucratic bottlenecks, ensuring faster and more transparent services.
Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Public Administration stressed that reforms have enabled continuous training and professional growth for civil servants.
Nigerian and Kenyan representatives emphasized that performance-based systems are curbing corruption and improving trust in public institutions. Harmonized HR practices are fostering cross-border collaboration, creating a shared standard of excellence across Africa.
The ripple effects of reforms extend far beyond government offices: Economic Growth through streamlined processes that attract investment. Social Development via improved delivery of education, healthcare, and social services. Youth Empowerment through merit-based recruitment that opens opportunities for young Africans.
Hosting the 10th APS-HRMnet Conference was a milestone for Sierra Leone, positioning the country as a hub for governance innovation. Hon. Amara Kallon, Minister of Public Administration, described the event as “a turning point for Sierra Leone’s public service, showcasing our commitment to reforms that align with Africa’s broader transformation agenda.”
As the conference concluded, one message stood out: Africa’s transformation begins with its public service. Administrators left Freetown with renewed determination to implement reforms that will make institutions more responsive, inclusive, and future-ready.
Vice President Jalloh’s words captured the spirit of the gathering: “Public sector reforms are not just about systems—they are about people, and about building the Africa we want.”
