Public-Private Engagement and Policy Advocacy Program (PPEPAP)

1. Program Description

The Public-Private Engagement and Policy Advocacy Program (PPEPAP) serves as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and policy development between the government, private sector, and key stakeholders. It aims to create an enabling environment for local content growth, investment attraction, and regulatory improvements through structured engagements, consultations, and advocacy initiatives. The program also ensures that the voice of local businesses is reflected in national policies and international trade discussions.

2. Objectives

  • To foster strong collaboration between government, businesses, and development partners in promoting local content.
  • To advocate for policies and regulations that support Sierra Leonean businesses and workforce development.
  • To facilitate regular public-private dialogues to address local content challenges and opportunities.
  • To engage industry leaders and policymakers in shaping sustainable local content strategies.
  • To monitor and evaluate the impact of existing local content policies and recommend improvements.

3. Scope

The program targets sectors such as mining, petroleum, construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and services, ensuring that local businesses have a voice in decision-making processes. It operates through partnerships with government ministries, business associations, trade organizations, financial institutions, and international agencies to drive impactful policy changes.

4. Key Activities

  • Local Content Consultative Forum – Organizing regular stakeholder meetings to discuss challenges, opportunities, and policy recommendations.
  • Advocacy for Local Content Policy Reforms – Engaging with policymakers to improve and enforce local content regulations.
  • Strategic Partnerships with Industry Players – Strengthening collaborations between local businesses and multinational corporations.
  • Investment and Trade Promotion Forums – Facilitating discussions on how to attract foreign direct investment while prioritizing local participation.
  • Policy Research and Impact Assessment – Conducting studies to measure the effectiveness of existing local content laws and suggest improvements.
  • Public Awareness and Outreach Campaigns – Educating businesses and the public on local content policies and their benefits.

5. Expected Outcomes

  • Stronger policy frameworks that promote local content and business-friendly regulations.
  • Greater involvement of Sierra Leonean enterprises in major economic activities.
  • Enhanced cooperation between the government and private sector to drive local business growth.
  • Better enforcement of local content regulations through informed policymaking.
  • Increased foreign and local investments in key industries that support local job creation.

6. Responsible Departments

Directorates of Communications and Outreach and Employment, Training and Technology Transfer – Lead public engagement, advocacy, and stakeholder consultations to ensure policies align with local content objectives.