4. CONCLUSIONS In spite of facing a challenging environment of an Ebola outbreak and shrinking international prices of iron ore, Sierra Leone tried very well during the reporting period in implementing the APRM National Programme of Action (NPOA). The country made steady progress in all aspects of its governance and development efforts. Democratic institutions are being established and strengthened for good governance. Sustainable and prudent economic governance and management through pragmatic fiscal and monetary policies are being rigorously pursued by the Government. The corporate governance environment continues to improve. Socio-economic development in the country especially in critical areas of the provision of quality health delivery services, energy and food security and education have all witnessed significant growth and developments over the past year. Peace and security also continue to prevail throughout the country. In effect, based on the research findings and consultations in the country, the following conclusions have been reached. These successes were however challenged by a number of issues including difficulties presented by the Ebola epidemic, shrinking international iron ore 46 prices, stepping up governance and APRM awareness building , preparations for 2018 elections and regular and adequate budgetary support to the APRM process. Against this backdrop, there is need for the following measures: • Stepping up awareness raising on governance issues generally and the APRM in particular • Resourcing the APRM as it has now being given additional new mandates including the monitoring of AU Agenda 2063 and the UN 2030 Global Sustainable Development Goals in the country. This is also urgent now that APRM District Coordinators and Committees are fully established and need efficient and effective operations • Implementation of the APRM in situations of emergencies : Ebola and international global impacts need to be prepared for • Capacitating the APRM to play a crucial role in sensitizing Sierra Leoneans on the need for democratic and peaceful 2018 elections. APRM Sierra Leone | Annual Progress Report