Green Growth in Sierra Leone: A SWOT Analysis and Strategic Framework

Sierra Leone, like the majority of developing countries, is being increasingly pushed towards a green growth model, a framework that balances sustainable development with economic growth while leaving intact environmental integrity. Despite how much this model has become more relevant in the wake of climate change and shortages of resources, there is little to indicate that sustainable development features in Sierra Leone's transition towards green. Applying the SWOT approach of the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats method, a traditional strategy planning based on internal and external conditions influencing development processes, the study measures the nation's readiness to take the green development path. It uses qualitative secondary data analysis, gathering data from government, policy, and research reports, and institutions that are experts in sustainable development, renewable energy, and environmental governance. The SWOT method is applied to the systematic categorization of strategic enabling and inhibiting factors: internal strengths and weaknesses, and external opportunities and threats. Strengths include abundant natural resources, environmentally friendly policies, room for the development of renewable energy, and a highly educated population. Weaknesses such as inadequate institutional framework, low indigenous investment in green technology, political apathy, and reliance on foreign aid are potent dampeners. Opportunities are instigated through the availability of overseas climate finance, greater global green awareness, and global coordination. In comparison, high cost of green technology, limited international transfer of technology, exposure to climate, political tensions, and corruption represent critical setbacks to green change. The study concludes that Sierra Leone can have sustainable green growth, but that it must be pursued with audacious political will, underpinned institutional capacity, investment in science and technology education, as well as anti-corruption. SWOT analysis was also proven effective in recommending areas of intervention priority for policymakers’ consideration, building a strategic framework for guiding national development planning that is sensitive to the global climate and sustainability agenda.