Sierra Leone: Fodeba Daboh: A Journey Of Resilience And Dedication To Global Development
Fodeba Daboh originally from Sierra Leone, fled the civil war in the late 1990s and eventually settled in Pennsylvania (USA) in the early 2000s. “Earned his degree from the prestigious Ivy League University (the University of Pennsylvania)’’. This university is globally recognized as one of the best in the world, and also taught as an adjunct professor at Arcadia University. He studied International Relations and African Studies from the University of Pennsylvania (USA) before pursuing a graduate program in International Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) at Arcadia University. His research in the IPCR program focused on youth unemployment and its link to conflict in Sierra Leone.
As a student, Mr. Daboh interned with Heifer International, an organization dedicated to eradicating global poverty, an experience that deeply influenced him. “I have never felt the same since”. Daboh recalled. “I remember thinking that I can make a difference in Sierra Leone”. Motivated by this vision, he began travelling between the United States and Sierra Leone to contribute to the development of his homeland. After completing the IPCR program, he collaborated with the Historical and Political Studies faculty to co-lead Global Field Study (GFS) courses, allowing students to explore the realities of global poverty and development in Sierra Leone.
His experience in Policy Analysis, Project design and implementation at both national and international levels is eminent to Private Sector, Technical Vocational Education, Youth Services, Gender Equity, Human Rights, Peace Building, Capacity Development, Reseach and Report Writing.
This is a true reflection of a committed individual that stands for invaluable contribution toward the success of Sierra Leoneans. His tireless efforts, attention to detail, and selfless contributions has made him valuable in society.
A transformational leader: Fodeba Daboh
Fodeba Daboh exemplifies transformational leadership. Under his guidance, the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLLCA) has achieved remarkable milestones, significantly impacting economic growth, employment creation, and local empowerment. His leadership inspires, motivates, and drives positive change, making SLLCA a pivotal institution in Sierra Leone’s development.
THE PERSPECTIVE ON RECORD DEMONSTRATES SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENT
With six years of service at the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency, Fodeba Daboh has earned a reputation as a trusted and compassionate leader. He has played a key role in creating employment opportunities, driving economic growth, and championing national policy reforms.
His dedication to promoting local content has been pivotal in advancing economic growth by empowering local businesses and enhancing their capacity to engage across various sectors.
Recently, the Agency celebrated a significant milestone, reaffirming its commitment to local content and inspiring future initiatives.
Notably, they are now collaborating with the ILO on a key project implementation.
The Bridge Builder
Daboh is known for his ability to foster change through clear communication and active engagement. He is a bridge builder, connecting local initiatives to national policies that drive progress.
UNLOCKING A NEW POTENTIAL
Fodeba Daboh currently serves as the Director General of the SLLCA. In 2013, he worked as the Policy Adviser when the entity functioned as a local content unit supported by the Department for International Development (DFID) under the oversight of Adam Smith International. Following.
The enactment of the Local Content Act by Parliament, DFID withdrew its support, as their assistance was limited to the unit and did not extend to a full agency. Consequently, the Agency faced financial challenges, with no government support or staff salaries provided between 2017 and early 2018.
When the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) assumed power in late 2018, local content became a national priority. His Excellency President Bio appointed Fodeba Daboh as the Director General of the SLLCA. Under his leadership, Daboh successfully addressed pressing issues, secured office space, and improved the Agency’s financial stability.
An Innovative and Inclusive Leader
Fodeba Daboh is an innovative and inclusive leader with exceptional communication abilities, serving as Director General.
Mr. Daboh has made significant contributions to the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency by developing standard operating procedures for all departments and establishing a solid foundation for long-term success. His efforts have brought immense value to the Agency, including expanding its workforce and increasing regional representation by hiring staff in the Southeast, North, Northwest, and Western Area Rural regions. He has also demonstrated strong financial management skills and consistently advocated for increased budget allocations to enhance the agency’s impact.
His dedication is evident through tangible results and achievements. The Agency recently received recognition in Mauritius as the most outstanding local content Agency in Africa. It also achieved significant milestones by hosting the first-ever Mano River Union Summit on Local Content in 2022 and the African Development Conference in 2024, both held in Sierra Leone. He remains committed to promoting Sierra Leone’s local products, recognizing their potential to drive economic growth and national development. Known as a responsible and visionary leader, he has earned widespread respect nationwide. With a proven track record of fostering financial stability and growth.
He has implemented numerous initiatives and policies that have effectively stimulated economic activity nationwide.
As we approach the Christmas season, I hope you find time to read this newsletter. Wishing you and the entire staff a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Written by: Ibrahim Saccoh (Sac’s)
Project Coordinator, SLLCA
ibrahimsaccoh05@gmail.com
22/12/2024