By Dan Bangura
Sierra Leone’s Immigration Service has presented its 2026–2030 strategic plan to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), seeking funding and technical support as it aims to overhaul border management and restore public trust.
The proposal was outlined during a meeting at the UNDP Hall in Freetown, where immigration officials detailed plans to reform operations and strengthen border security.
Chief Immigration Officer Moses Tiffa Baio said the strategy was informed by a public perception survey which found low levels of trust in the service, largely due to concerns about corruption and unprofessional conduct.
“Restoring public trust is central to our reform agenda,” Baio said.
The strategic plan focuses on four key areas: service delivery and process reform, integrity and ethics, digital transformation, and regimental restructuring.
Baio said the agency was also reviewing its legal framework and seeking a clearer mandate over border governance, arguing that no single institution currently holds primary legislative responsibility for border management in Sierra Leone.
“We are proposing that immigration be given the sole mandate for border management and security, with other agencies playing supporting roles,” he said.
He added that the service aims to align its reforms with national security priorities, particularly in addressing challenges at porous borders, and to enhance cooperation with neighbouring Mano River Union countries facing similar issues.
UNDP representatives welcomed the plan and said they would engage further with Sierra Leonean authorities on areas of mutual interest, including border security and mobility management.
The immigration service said it hopes the partnership will help transform it into a more professional, transparent and digitally driven institution.
