By Fatima Kpaka
On January 21, 2025, the Parliament of Sierra Leone debated and unanimously ratified several international conventions to protect and utilize transboundary watercourses and international lakes.
Ratified Conventions
The following conventions were ratified:
- Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes (March 17, 1992)
- Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes (Amended)
- Convention on the Law of the Non-navigational Uses of International Watercourses (New York, May 21, 1997)
Presentations and Submissions
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Madam Francess Algali, highlighted the importance of these conventions in protecting international and transboundary watercourses. She urged Members of Parliament to ratify the agreements swiftly, noting that the conventions would bolster Sierra Leone’s efforts to project its transboundary watercourses, promote regional investment, and improve water management.
Hon. Ing. Falla Tengbeh from Kailahun District expressed support, describing the conventions as non-contentious and beneficial to the state’s socio-economic development. Hon. Shiaka Musa Sama from Pujehun District lauded the Foreign Affairs Ministry for the initiative and praised the government for enacting good laws.
Hon. Musa Fofona from Kono District emphasized the importance of the conventions in addressing challenges related to accessing clean drinking water and their potential benefits for the state’s development.
Parliamentary Debate
Acting opposition Leader, Hon. Daniel Koroma, questioned the delay in bringing the conventions to Parliament but acknowledged their importance. Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, thanked the opposition for supporting the ratification and highlighted the significance of the conventions. He called for regional cooperation in ratifying these agreements.
National Petroleum Regulatory Authority Act
In other developments, Parliament passed the National Petroleum Regulatory Authority Act, 2025, with amendments. This Act continues the Petroleum Regulatory Authority, now known as the National Cohesion Petroleum Regulatory Authority, regulating the petroleum downstream industry, including licensing, monitoring, and supervision of refineries, transportation, marketing, and retail activities.
The Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr. Ibrahim Alpha Sesay, piloted the enactment of the Bill.