Freetown, Sierra Leone (7 January 2025) – From fleeing the civil war in Sierra Leone in the late 1990s to becoming a beacon of hope and development, Fodeba Daboh’s journey is a testament to resilience and dedication. As the Director General of the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLLCA), Daboh has made significant strides in promoting local content, driving economic growth, and fostering national development.
After settling in Pennsylvania (USA) in the early 2000s, Daboh earned his degree from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, studying International Relations and African Studies. He later pursued a graduate program in International Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) at Arcadia University, focusing his research on youth unemployment and its link to conflict in Sierra Leone.
During his student years, Daboh interned with Heifer International, an experience that deeply influenced him. Motivated to make a difference in his homeland, he began traveling between the United States and Sierra Leone, contributing to development initiatives. After completing the IPCR program, he co-led Global Field Study courses, enabling students to explore global poverty and development realities in Sierra Leone.
Daboh’s expertise in policy analysis, project design, and implementation is evident across various sectors, including private sector development, technical vocational education, youth services, gender equity, human rights, peacebuilding, capacity development, and research and report writing. His tireless efforts and selfless contributions have made him an asset to society.
A Transformational Leader
Under Daboh’s leadership, the SLLCA has achieved remarkable milestones, significantly impacting economic growth, employment creation, and local empowerment. His leadership inspires, motivates, and drives positive change, making SLLCA a pivotal institution in Sierra Leone’s development.
With six years of service at the SLLCA, Daboh has earned a reputation as a trusted and compassionate leader. He has played a key role in creating employment opportunities, driving economic growth, and championing national policy reforms. His dedication to promoting local content has empowered businesses and enhanced their capacity to engage across various sectors.
Recently, the Agency celebrated a significant milestone, reaffirming its commitment to local content and inspiring future initiatives. They are now collaborating with the International Labour Organization (ILO) on a key project implementation.
Unlocking New Potential
In 2013, Daboh worked as a Policy Adviser when the SLLCA functioned as a local content unit supported by the Department for International Development (DFID). Following the enactment of the Local Content Act by Parliament, DFID withdrew its support, and the Agency faced financial challenges. However, when the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) assumed power in late 2018, local content became a national priority. President Bio appointed Daboh as the Director General of the SLLCA, and under his leadership, the Agency secured office space and improved financial stability.
An Innovative and Inclusive Leader
Daboh has made significant contributions to the SLLCA by developing standard operating procedures, expanding the workforce, and increasing regional representation. His financial management skills and advocacy for increased budget allocations have enhanced the Agency’s impact.
The SLLCA recently received recognition in Mauritius as the most outstanding local content agency in Africa. It also hosted the first-ever Mano River Union Summit on Local Content in 2022 and the African Development Conference in 2024, both held in Sierra Leone. Daboh remains committed to promoting Sierra Leone’s local products, recognizing their potential to drive economic growth and national development.
Known as a responsible and visionary leader, Daboh has earned widespread respect nationwide. With a proven track record of fostering financial stability and growth, he has implemented numerous initiatives and policies that have effectively stimulated economic activity across Sierra Leone. His journey is a true reflection of a committed individual dedicated to the success and development of Sierra Leone.
Written by: Ibrahim Saccoh (Sac’s)
Project Coordinator, SLLCA
ibrahimsaccoh05@gmail.com