Former Minister of Finance Hon. Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura has expressed gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio, colleagues, development partners, and the people of Sierra Leone as he officially concludes his tenure at the Ministry of Finance after more than three years in office.
In his farewell message, Bangura described his appointment as Minister of Finance as one of the greatest honours of his professional life and thanked President Bio for the confidence reposed in him throughout his period of service.
Reflecting on his time at the Ministry, the former Finance Minister noted that the period was marked by significant economic challenges, which required Government and economic managers to work through difficult circumstances while pursuing stability and reforms.
“Serving as Minister of Finance has been one of the greatest honours of my professional life. Together, we navigated some of the most challenging economic circumstances facing our country and worked tirelessly to restore stability, strengthen domestic revenue mobilization, improve fiscal management and build a more resilient foundation for Sierra Leone’s economy,” he stated.
Bangura was quick to emphasise that any achievements recorded during his tenure were the result of collective effort rather than individual accomplishment. He paid tribute to leadership, professional staff, technical personnel, and all employees of the Ministry of Finance, describing their dedication, sacrifice, and professionalism as central to the progress made over the years.
The former minister also extended appreciation to development partners, government ministries, departments, agencies, and stakeholders who collaborated with the Ministry in advancing Government’s economic priorities.
Beyond institutional acknowledgements, Bangura reserved special gratitude for the people of Sierra Leone, commending their patience, support, and resilience throughout a period that saw Government grapple with both domestic and global economic pressures.
“Public service is ultimately about the people, and it has been an extraordinary privilege to serve you,” he noted.
As leadership changes take effect within the Ministry, Bangura used the opportunity to assure his successor of his complete support. He pledged to remain available whenever needed to ensure a smooth transition and contribute to continuity in economic management.
According to him, the success of the incoming Finance Minister should not be viewed as an individual achievement but as a national responsibility tied directly to Sierra Leone’s development.
“His success will not simply be his personal success or the success of the Ministry of Finance it will be Sierra Leone’s success. The economic progress of our country must always rise above personalities, positions and individual interests.”
Bangura further stated that he leaves the Ministry with “gratitude, humility and a deep sense of fulfilment,” expressing confidence that foundations strengthened during his tenure will continue to contribute to national economic progress.
The message comes hours after President Bio announced a new round of Cabinet and public service appointments, including the nomination of Mr. Karefa A. F. Kargbo as Minister of Finance, subject to parliamentary approval where applicable.
Concluding his statement, Bangura wished success to both his successor and staff of the Ministry of Finance as they continue what he described as an important national responsibility.
He also offered prayers for President Bio and the nation, ending his message with the words:
“May God bless His Excellency the President, and may God continue to bless the Republic of Sierra Leone.”