Sierra Leone is extremely blessed, under the leadership of His Excellency Rtd. Brig. Dr. Julius Maada Bio, to have a wonderful and extraordinarily hardworking young individual like Dr. David Moinina Sengeh.
While serving as Minster of Basic and Senior Secondary, Dr. Sengeh transformed the educational landscape in Sierra Leone, which ushered in significant improvements and innovative reforms. One of the notable initiatives he implemented was a new system that allowed parents to access their children’s results online without buying scratch cards.
This novelty was a revolutionary mechanism for solving the marathon of stress encountered by financially deprived parents.
The previous academic examination scratch card system was technically cumbersome, often inaccessible, and unaffordable to many financially deprived parents, resulting in unnecessary delay and huge frustrations in accessing their children’s academic results.
Fortunately, Dr. Sengeh’s proactive and innovative solution did not only cushion relief for parents but stimulated the attention of other education ministries across Africa to seek study tour in Sierra Leone in order to harvest contemporary best practices.
Moreover, Dr. Sengeh’s tenure as Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary School was propelled by his high-tech prowess in the digital sphere coupled with trustworthiness and loyalty to his country.
The introduction of digital censuses and logging with the National Identification Number (NIM) by teachers finally laid to rest the phenomenon of ghost teachers in the system. This also secures funds to recruit more trained and qualified teachers, significantly improving the quality of education.
The impact created by Dr. Sengeh at the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Schools has broken and set brand new records at the Education Ministry, and his absence is still felt by many who admire his dedication and effectiveness.
The appointment of Dr. Senge as Chief Minister never came as a surprise, especially to informed and well-meaning Sierra Leoneans both home and abroad. As the saying goes, « A good name is better than an expensive perfume. » Dr. Sengeh’selevation to the position of Chief Minister is a testament to his outstanding performance in President Bio’s administration.
His reputation for excellence, integrity, digital innovation, and hard work had already been well established from the genesis of his academic journey at the Prince of Wales Secondary School, Freetown, Red Cross Nordic United World College in Flekke, Norway, Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology etc.
The confidence placed in Dr Sengeh by President Bio and the people of Sierra Leone, including the members of the main opposition, All People’s Congress (APC) reflects his capability and genuine love for Sierra Leone and the people of Africa. No wonder he wanted to change ‘aid to Africa’ to ‘Made in Africa’.
Dr. Senge’s performance and technical expertise during the Electoral Review Process (Tripartite) led to the unconditional lifting of the country’s banner to new heights. His position as one of the chief negotiators during this process was instrumental in restoring the glory and respect that Sierra Leone was known for in the past.
Dr. Sengeh’s technical expertise and strategic thinking were invaluable in navigating the complexities of the electoral review. His ability to engage with various stakeholders, mediate conflicts, and dialogue for peace through fair and transparent processes underscored his commitment to democracy and good governance.
This achievement further solidified his reputation as a leader capable of handling critical national issues with competence, integrity, and worth emulating by other political stakeholders.
It is critically interesting to note that one of the most endearing and unique qualities of Dr. Sengeh is his approachability, humility, trustworthiness, and impartial position on issues. Unlike many who attain high positions, they will cage themselves so as not to be accessible.
Dr. Sengeh is widely known for his interactive ability with people from all walks of life. He is affectionately called the « People’s Minister, » the « father of youths, » and is respected by the elderly.
In public gatherings, it is very common to see Dr. Sengeh having close conversations with the young and old or engaging in informal activities such as drinking ataya (tea) or watching sports with young men. These qualities make him relatable and endear him to the people, reinforcing the perception that he is indeed a God-sent leader.
Dr. Sengeh has repeatedly demonstrated his deep love and passion for Sierra Leone, affectionately known as « Mama Salon. » Both at home and abroad, he has consistently emphasized the importance of delivery and tangible results to his fellow ministers. His patriotic zeal is evident in his tireless work and commitment to improving the lives of his fellow Sierra Leoneans. Dr. Sengeh’s passion for his country is not just in words but in actions that have positively impacted various sectors of the nation.
Dr. Senge Sengeh has single-handedly supported projects, including, but not limited to, the winning student projects, which give winning students the opportunity the opportunity to travel to the United States. Example: Kelvin Doe, a thirteen-year-old inventor who had never left a ten-mile radius of his house in Sierra Leone, joined the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s (MIT) Visiting Practitioner’s Program.
In conclusion, David Moinina Sengeh, PhD, under the leadership of President Bio, is a person who continues to shine brightly for his extraordinary performance in governance. His innovative solutions in the education sector, effective leadership during the electoral review process, and approachable and humble nature have all contributed to his esteemed status.
Dr. Sengeh’s love for Sierra Leone and his dedication to its progress make him a beacon of hope and a model leader for future generations.
By all indications, he is the best minister under the leadership of His Excellency Rtd. Brigadier Julius Maada Bio. He is not an arm-chair Chief Minister like his predecessors. His proactive tendencies allow him to conduct an on-the-spot check and interact with heads and staff of ministries, departments, and agencies. His work and legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and positively impact Sierra Leone for many years to come.
Abdoul Rahaman Bah, Senior Reporter for Afriqu’Europe Magazine
