ECOWAS Pavilion, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island, Lagos, Nigeria
Minister of Trade and Industry Sierra Leone
H.E. Alpha Ibrahim Sesay is the Minister of Trade and Industry of the Republic of Sierra Leone, where he leads the country’s strategic agenda for trade expansion, industrial development, and private sector growth. A dedicated public servant with a strong background in law, governance, and economic policy, Minister Sesay has played a pivotal role in advancing reforms that strengthen Sierra Leone’s position within regional and global markets. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to building a dynamic, inclusive, and competitive economy that aligns with the government’s broader vision for sustainable national development. Since assuming office, Minister Sesay has spearheaded initiatives aimed at improving the ease of doing business, promoting value addition in local industries, and fostering public-private partnerships to stimulate investment. He has overseen key policy frameworks that enhance trade facilitation, industrial competitiveness, and market access for Sierra Leonean products. Under his direction, the Ministry has prioritized modernizing trade infrastructure, promoting small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) growth, and expanding manufacturing capacity across strategic sectors such as agriculture, mining, and processing. Minister Sesay’s leadership has also been instrumental in deepening Sierra Leone’s integration within regional economic blocs, particularly through active engagement with ECOWAS and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He has championed trade policies that open new export opportunities for Sierra Leonean goods and services while ensuring that local industries are protected and supported through smart industrial policies. His focus on sustainable industrialization and innovation has positioned Sierra Leone as an emerging player in West Africa’s evolving trade landscape. Beyond his ministerial duties, Minister Sesay is recognized for his dedication to empowering young entrepreneurs and promoting inclusive economic participation. He continues to advocate for policies that bridge gender gaps in business, encourage digital transformation, and strengthen institutional capacity for economic governance. Through his visionary leadership, Sierra Leone is making significant progress toward achieving industrial diversification, job creation, and a more resilient, self-reliant economy.