Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, the former mayor of Freetown, has received an invitation to serve as a Commissioner for the Global Commission for Urban Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which will convene in Paris, France. The commission will be launched on June 21, 2023, during the Focus 2030 Conference, under the auspices of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), led by President Jeffery Sachs.
In the years 2023 and 2024, the Commissioners will hold virtual meetings to address crucial issues such as climate change and climate financing. The focus will be on promoting the establishment of resilient urban structures worldwide. Sachs emphasized that the commission aims to bring together mayors, climate experts, and finance leaders to develop innovative mechanisms and policy reforms. Their ultimate goal is to enhance cities' access to financing that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Expressing her response to the invitation, Aki-Sawyerr highlighted the opportunity to collaborate with other mayors and economists in tackling the challenges related to funding development projects in Freetown and other developing cities. She emphasized that her previous involvement in international roles has played a significant role in securing funding for various initiatives under the Transform Freetown program. These include providing tricycles for youth groups, establishing nurseries in markets, advancing the second phase of the Freetown the Tree Town initiative, and conducting feasibility studies for a cable car system.
While Aki-Sawyerr prepares to serve as a Commissioner, she is also actively seeking re-election in the upcoming polls on June 24. Experts anticipate a tough competition for her from Mohamed Gento Kamara, her arch-rival from the Sierra Leone People's Party.