By Brima Kallon
Businesses in Sierra Leone are facing mounting cost pressures as inflation accelerates, driven by rising utility, transport and health expenses, while monetary policy remains unchanged.
Data from Statistics Sierra Leone showed headline inflation rose to 8.05% year-on-year in February, up from 6.38% in January.
Non-food inflation climbed to 10.95%, while housing and utility costs surged to 35.89%, reflecting sharp increases in electricity tariffs and fuel prices.
Transport inflation also rose to 9.10%, highlighting the impact of higher fuel costs and ongoing logistical challenges.
The rising costs are placing additional strain on businesses, many of which are struggling to maintain margins as operating expenses increase.
With monetary policy held steady, companies are being forced to absorb much of the impact, raising concerns about profitability and the potential knock-on effects on prices, investment and employment.
Analysts say sustained inflationary pressures could weigh on economic growth if businesses scale back operations or pass on higher costs to consumers.
