The Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Kenyeh Barlay, has been recognised with the prestigious Climate Policy and Development Award at the 9th Edition of the Environmental Care & National Climate Awards, held yesterday and organised by Shout Climate Change Africa.
The annual awards celebrate exceptional individuals and institutions that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and impact in addressing climate change and environmental protection. This year’s ceremony highlighted awardees who have gone above and beyond their official responsibilities driving climate solutions, inspiring community action, and safeguarding the planet through sustained advocacy and transformative initiatives.
Madam Barlay’s recognition underscores her ministry’s pivotal role in strengthening Sierra Leone’s climate governance landscape. Under her leadership, the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development has worked to integrate climate resilience into national development plans, coordinate sustainable growth strategies, and champion policy frameworks that advance environmental protection and inclusive economic development.
These efforts have contributed significantly to aligning Sierra Leone’s development agenda with global climate priorities, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) 2024–2030, which places climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and green growth at the centre of national planning.
In a brief statement following the award, Minister Barlay expressed deep appreciation, noting:
“This honour reflects our collective commitment as a government to building a climate-resilient and sustainable Sierra Leone. Through the MTNDP 2024–2030, we have prioritised mainstreaming climate action across all sectors, strengthening national planning systems, and promoting community-led adaptation initiatives. I dedicate this award to the hardworking teams across the ministry and our partners who continue to drive these interventions.”
As part of the ceremony, she was also given the honour to present awards to other distinguished recipients, recognising their leadership and contributions to national climate action.
Shout Climate Change Africa commended all recipients as “true guardians of the environment and champions of climate action,” applauding their continued contributions to national and regional climate resilience efforts.
Madam Barlay’s achievement further reinforces the Ministry’s commitment to advancing sustainable development and building a climate-resilient future for Sierra Leone.