Our Team

Mohamed Samba Barrie is a development economist and data analytics expert with over a decade of experience in research, public finance reform, and policy advisory across government institutions, multilateral programs, and private sector consulting. He currently serves as the Executive Director of Development Decision Support (DDS), where he leads the firm’s strategic vision, oversees project delivery, and drives research innovation across its key areas: tax and revenue reform, public policy design, data analytics, and institutional capacity building.

Prior to his current role, Mohamed was Technical Coordinator subsequently Technical Manager for Sierra Leone’s property tax reform under the Local Government Revenue Initiative (LoGRI), where he played a leading role in deploying spatial data systems, streamlining municipal tax administration, and guiding policy reforms in cities like Makeni, Freetown, and Kenema. His work directly informed rate-setting, billing system design, and stakeholder engagement strategies at the local government level.

Mohamed previously held senior research and economist roles at the Bank of Sierra Leone and the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, where he contributed to national economic analysis, fiscal risk assessments, policy evaluations, and scenario modeling on issues ranging from inflation to labor markets. His background also includes private sector advisory experience with KPMG Sierra Leone, where he supported investment diagnostics, public-private partnership structuring, and donor-funded research initiatives.

An active contributor to economic scholarship, Mohamed has published extensively on macroeconomic modeling, tax policy, policy simulations, exchange rate forecasting, and monetary transmission in peer-reviewed journals. He is also an experienced trainer and mentor, having supported capacity-building for government officials, enumerators, analysts, and local councils in data collection, visualization, and policy research methods.

He holds a Master’s of Science degree in Economics, and Finance (University of Turin), MA in Comparative Law, for the (International University College of Turin), a BSc in Economics (FBC), and multiple certifications in tax and development, data analytics, machine learning, policy analysis and project management.

Under his leadership, DDS is deepening its role as a trusted partner in evidence-based decision-making and sustainable development strategy in Sierra Leone and beyond.

Alieu Gilbert Fullah is an accomplished Data Scientist and Technical Director with over a decade of experience in data analytics, ICT systems, and digital innovation. At Development Decision Support (DDS), Alieu leads the firm’s technical strategy, overseeing data architecture, digital systems development, and advanced analytics for a wide range of research and public sector reform projects. His work ensures that DDS delivers high-quality, tech-enabled solutions that empower evidence-based decision-making across government, donor, and development institutions.

Alieu’s expertise spans full-stack development, machine learning, geospatial analytics, data visualization, and ICT infrastructure. His career includes global assignments with Microsoft Shanghai and UNDP Copenhagen, as well as national leadership roles including Head of Technology at the Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) and Technical Specialist for the Local Government Revenue Initiative (LoGRI). In these roles, he led large-scale survey operations, built property data systems, and developed tools to modernize service delivery and improve public accountability.

He is the creator of several data platforms, including the BioMeter Online Tracker and the Sierra Leone Governance and Services Tracker, and has contributed to major policy-oriented projects funded by USAID, the EU, World Bank, and Irish Aid. His blend of technical depth and strategic thinking allows him to translate complex data into accessible insights for policy design, governance reforms, and community-level interventions.

Alieu holds an MSc in Information and Communication Engineering from Huazhong University of Science and Technology (China) and a BSc in Information Systems from the University of Sierra Leone. He is certified in advanced data analytics, deep learning, GIS, and IoT systems. Fluent in Python, SQL, Power BI, Flutter, and GIS platforms, he brings a multidisciplinary approach to technology leadership.

As Technical Director at DDS, Alieu leads a growing team of developers, analysts, and field technicians, building the digital backbone of DDS’s work to promote transparent governance, efficient service delivery, and inclusive development.

Amadu Jan Jalloh is a strategic thinker and experienced development professional with a proven track record in public sector reform, operational leadership, and data-driven policy implementation. As Programs Director at Development Decision Support (DDS), Amadu provides strategic oversight and leads the operational execution of DDS’s expanding portfolio across governance, local revenue systems, institutional strengthening, and evidence-based development planning.

Amadu has over four years of experience supporting large-scale reform initiatives across multiple local governments in Sierra Leone. He has played a central role in the design and rollout of digital property tax systems under the Local Government Revenue Initiative (LoGRI), working closely with city councils, development partners, and technical teams to improve tax compliance, expand the revenue base, and build local administrative capacity. He combines hands-on expertise in project management, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL), and operational systems design with a deep understanding of local governance dynamics and stakeholder engagement.

In his current role at DDS, Amadu oversees project implementation, institutional performance, and operational functions—including Finance, Procurement, HR, and MEL. He leads teams to deliver results on time and within budget while ensuring that all projects maintain strong compliance, coordination, and impact orientation. He also supports the institutionalization of learning processes and reporting systems to guide continuous improvement and strategic planning.

His professional background includes experience in both research and applied reform work. Prior to joining DDS, Amadu worked with the University of Toronto’s Local Government Revenue Initiative (LoGRI) program in multiple capacities, providing technical support for property valuation, staff training, and internal audits. He also supported revenue tracking and compliance systems while working with the Revenue Mobilization Department of the Freetown City Council, and has experience in environmental data collection through the Freetown Tree Town Campaign.

Amadu holds a First Class Honours degree in Business and Information Technology from Njala University, and has completed professional training in data analytics, project management, and artificial intelligence.

He brings a strong blend of technical, operational, and people management skills, with a commitment to integrity, learning, and collaboration.

Isha Barrie is a detail-oriented and results-driven finance professional with over fifteen years of experience in audit, donor-funded accounting, and financial management. As Senior Admin and Finance Manager at DDS, she brings extensive expertise in financial reporting, compliance, grant management, and risk assessment, ensuring accuracy and transparency in all financial operations.

Isha’s background includes leading internal and external audits, identifying financial risks, and implementing strong internal controls to safeguard organizational assets. She has a proven track record managing donor-funded projects with a focus on compliance with funding regulations and delivering detailed financial reports to stakeholders.

Prior to joining DDS, Isha held senior roles including Audit Lead at KPMG Sierra Leone (now Baker Tilly) and Senior Accountant at the US CDC-funded Protecting and Improving Public Health Globally Project, where she successfully managed complex financial systems and ensured audit-ready reporting. Most recently, she served as Accounts Payable Manager at Viamo, overseeing end-to-end accounts payable processes and optimizing financial workflows.

Isha holds a Master of Science in Professional Accountancy from the University of London and a BSc (Hons) in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University. She is a member of both the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants Sierra Leone (ICASL), and a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).

Known for her strategic financial leadership, strong stakeholder collaboration, and commitment to compliance, Isha plays a vital role in strengthening DDS’s financial systems and supporting sustainable organizational growth.

Manso Bangura is a seasoned finance and operations professional with over eight years of professional experience and nearly five years dedicated experience in property tax reform across Sierra Leone. As the Finance and Operations Lead at Development Decision Support (DDS), Manso plays a key role in managing technical processes, coordinating project implementation, and driving institutional development within local government systems.

He has led the end-to-end automation of property tax payment systems, working directly with IT developers, financial institutions, and government stakeholders to integrate Moptax payment platforms and resolve operational bottlenecks. His leadership in GIS digitization, payment reconciliation, and property discovery has directly contributed to the successful execution of major reform initiatives in Freetown, Makeni, Kenema, and other cities.

Manso brings strong capacity-building credentials, having designed and delivered training for administrative staff on every stage of the valuation and billing cycle. He developed internal audit protocols and reconciliation procedures that are now being adopted by councils for long-term sustainability. His ability to translate complex operational systems into practical tools has made him a trusted advisor to both reform teams and local authorities.

Beyond finance, Manso leads on strategic operations—overseeing the printing and distribution of rate demand notices, setting up taxpayer enquiries and appeals desks, managing vendor relationships, and facilitating internal and external coordination meetings. His operational insight has been central to the transition of reform ownership to local councils.

He is currently pursuing an MSc in Professional Accounting through the ACCA pathway and holds certifications as a Certified Accounting Technician and in Accounting and Business. He has also completed training in advanced Excel for business, which supports his work in financial analysis and performance reporting.

Manso’s blend of financial expertise, technical oversight, and public sector experience positions him as a vital figure in DDS’s work to modernize and strengthen local revenue systems in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Abu Bakarr Tarawalie is a seasoned economist and policy expert with over fifteen years of experience in government, academia, and international development. As a Senior Associate at Development Decision Support (DDS), he provides strategic guidance and high-level technical support across a range of initiatives, including macroeconomic policy, fiscal governance, and regional development programming.

Dr. Tarawalie holds a PhD, MSc, and BSc (Hons) in Economics, and is widely recognized for his work in monetary policy, regional integration, and macroeconomic analysis. He currently serves as a Senior Lecturer and Chair of the Postgraduate Committee at the Department of Economics and Commerce, Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone, where he leads postgraduate training and research on development economics.

His international experience includes a distinguished role at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington, D.C., where he supported macroeconomic analysis in the African Department and earned the 2016/17 departmental award for excellence. He also served as Director of Research and Statistics at the West African Monetary Institute (WAMI), leading convergence assessments for the West African Monetary Zone (WAMZ) and acting as Mission Chief to Sierra Leone.

At the Mano River Union Secretariat, Dr. Tarawalie was Deputy Secretary General for Economic Development and Regional Integration, helping to drive cooperation across member states. Earlier in his career, he held technical roles in Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Finance and at Statistics Sierra Leone, contributing to public finance strategy, economic research, and statistical systems.

Dr. Tarawalie has authored more than 35 peer-reviewed publications in monetary economics, fiscal policy, and development, and brings deep analytical expertise in econometric modeling and macroeconomic forecasting.

At DDS, he supports evidence-based policy reform and institutional strengthening, drawing on his extensive regional and international experience to inform solutions tailored to local development contexts.

Ibrahim Jalloh is a dynamic data and technology professional with over five years’ experience, currently serving as Manager of the Research, Data Analytics & GIS Unit at Development Decision Support (DDS). With a background in Business and Information Technology and a strong record of operational leadership in large-scale field research, Ibrahim brings both strategic insight and technical fluency to DDS’s data-driven research and development programming.

He has led and coordinated complex research activities across multiple institutions, including the Local Government Revenue Initiative (LoGRI), where he managed field teams responsible for property and business license distribution and supervised digital data collection efforts in Kenema. His work supports evidence-based policymaking in local governance and public finance.

Ibrahim's previous roles include serving as IT Manager for the Elections Observer Network (EON–SL), where he designed data systems for field observation and analysis using platforms like KoboCollect, MS Excel, and Power BI. He also held positions as Information Communication Officer to the Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Foreign Service Academy and as IT Officer at the Ahmad Tejan Kabbah Foundation, where he was responsible for managing digital platforms and supporting public communication strategies.

With a BSc (Hons) in Business and Information Technology from Njala University, Ibrahim is highly skilled in programming (Python, R, Java, SQL, HTML/CSS), GIS (QGIS), systems troubleshooting, data visualization, and project coordination. His versatility and experience across public sector reform, civic tech, and digital infrastructure make him a key contributor to DDS’s work in strengthening institutional capacity and improving development outcomes.

Othman Jalloh is a political economist and senior research associate at Development Decision Support (DDS), working within the Local Governance and Fiscal Policy Unit. He brings over ten years of cross-sector experience in economic policy, public sector reform, national security, and sustainability, with a strong track record of using research to inform practical policy and governance outcomes.

At DDS, Othman supports projects focused on local government finance, property taxation, fiscal decentralization, and inclusive economic development. His work draws on his expertise in political economy analysis, trade and investment policy, public revenue systems, and environmental governance. He plays a central role in shaping policy recommendations, engaging with government partners, and supporting technical research design and delivery.

Othman previously served as an Economic and Security Analyst at the Office of National Security under the Office of the President in Sierra Leone, where he led research on economic resilience and macroeconomic risks. He has managed components of World Bank– and UNDP–funded projects, contributed to policy reform in trade and environmental sectors, and supported AfCFTA engagement platforms. He also co-founded Kushe Africa and ME4ClimateJustice, advancing sustainable trade and civic-led environmental advocacy.

Othman holds a Master’s degree in Political Economy and a Bachelor’s in Government and International Relations and Political Economy from the University of Sydney. He brings a unique ability to bridge technical research, cross-government coordination, and grassroots engagement—making him an asset to DDS’s mission of supporting evidence-based governance and local development.

Kumba Kamara is a dedicated Admin and Finance Officer at Development Decision Support (DDS), where she provides essential administrative, logistical, and financial support across research and consultancy projects. With academic training in Population and Development Studies and a Diploma in Procurement and Logistics, she brings a strong understanding of public sector operations and project support systems.

At DDS, Kumba is responsible for managing day-to-day administrative tasks, supporting procurement processes, maintaining financial records, and ensuring smooth coordination between project teams and support functions. Her background includes field experience as a Data Collection Officer at the Ministry of Finance and Enumerator at Statistics Sierra Leone, giving her a practical understanding of data-driven work environments.

Kumba is valued for her attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to adapt in fast-paced settings. She is proficient in Microsoft Office and has working knowledge of GIS tools. Her professionalism and team-oriented mindset contribute to the overall efficiency and accountability of DDS’s operations.

Abubakar Barrie is a Research Analyst in the Research, Data Analytics & GIS Unit at Development Decision Support (DDS), where he supports the design, implementation, and interpretation of research that informs policy and program decisions across sectors. With a strong foundation in economics and a focus on local governance and public finance, Abubakar plays a key role in turning complex datasets into accessible, policy-relevant insights.

He brings hands-on experience in both quantitative and qualitative research methods, including field coordination, data analysis, and reporting. At DDS, Abubakar contributes to a range of projects—from property tax reform to socio-economic diagnostics—by managing data collection processes, performing statistical analysis, and preparing evidence briefs for partners and stakeholders.

Abubakar holds a First-Class Honours BSc in Economics from Njala University and is highly proficient in Microsoft R, Python, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. His strengths include critical thinking, clear communication, and an eye for detail, which make him a reliable team player in high-pressure environments. His ability to bridge data and policy makes him an asset in DDS’s mission to support data-driven development and public sector transformation.

Gifty Hemans is a versatile Research Analyst in the Technology, Software, and Systems Development Unit at Development Decision Support (DDS). With strong skills in data management, analytics, and administrative coordination, she supports the development of research tools and digital systems that improve policy implementation and operational efficiency across public sector projects.

At DDS, Gifty contributes to the design and execution of data-driven initiatives, applying tools such as SPSS, Python, SQL, and Microsoft Office to generate evidence and support decision-making. Before joining DDS, Gifty served as a Supervisor and for the Makeni Property Tax reform project, where she served as Field Supervisor during the data collection and delivery phase of the project, helping streamline field operations and enhance data quality through rigorous oversight and team coordination.

Gifty also brings administrative experience from her time as Secretary at Murialdo Government School, where she managed documentation, correspondence, and logistics—experience that translates into strong organizational and project support at DDS.

Her approach combines technical proficiency with hands-on problem-solving, making her a valuable contributor to multidisciplinary teams. Gifty is committed to continuous learning and innovation and is especially passionate about using data and technology to solve real-world development challenges.

Ibrahim Tanu Bah is a research and policy professional with over five years of experience working at the intersection of local governance, fiscal policy, and geospatial analysis. As a Research Associate in the Local Governance and Fiscal Policy Unit at Development Decision Support (DDS), he contributes technical expertise to projects aimed at improving local revenue systems, strengthening accountability, and enhancing public sector performance.

His work focuses on property taxation, GIS mapping, and economic research, often supporting local councils and government partners with evidence-based insights that guide reform design and implementation. Ibrahim has played key roles in field-based policy research, tax mapping exercises, and revenue diagnostics in both urban and peri-urban settings.

Ibrahim is highly skilled in tools such as STATA, Excel, and QGIS, which he uses to translate complex spatial and financial data into actionable analysis for decision-makers. He has supported the rollout of digital tax systems, the development of taxpayer databases, and the production of visual dashboards that support more transparent fiscal governance.

He holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Economics from Njala University and is known for his collaborative approach to stakeholder engagement.

His ability to bridge data, policy, and practice continues to make him a valuable contributor to DDS’s mission of supporting data-driven development in Sierra Leone and beyond.

Mohamed Osman Kamara is a research analyst at DDS, working within the Technology, Software, and Systems Development Unit. He supports the design and implementation of digital solutions that improve how governments collect, manage, and use data for better service delivery and policy outcomes. His work bridges software development, geospatial analysis, and systems support—helping DDS build practical, scalable tools for public sector reform.

At DDS, Mohamed contributes to several core projects, including the Local Government Revenue Initiative (LoGRI), where he helps develop and maintain GIS platforms, digital survey tools, and back-end systems used for property data collection, analysis, and reporting. He plays an active role in scripting automation processes, troubleshooting infrastructure issues, and ensuring that DDS’s digital tools are secure, efficient, and aligned with project goals.

He brings strong technical capabilities in Python, Java, SQL, and GIS applications such as QGIS and Survey123, alongside hands-on experience in cloud-based tools and network configuration. His work reflects DDS’s commitment to using open-source technology to drive inclusive and cost-effective governance innovation.

Mohamed holds a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science from Central University and has a growing profile as a tech advocate in Sierra Leone. He is actively engaged in digital inclusion initiatives and supports youth-focused programs aimed at building technology skills and innovation capacity nationwide.

With over five years’ experience Emmanuel Francis Bangura serves as a Research Associate within the Technology, Software, and Systems Development Unit at DDS. He holds a Master’s degree in Software Engineering from Nankai University and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Makeni. His academic foundation is complemented by practical experience in telecommunications and network engineering, making him a versatile technical specialist.

At DDS, Emmanuel plays a critical role in developing, maintaining, and optimizing software systems and digital infrastructure that support research, data collection, and local governance reform projects. His expertise includes network configuration and management, system administration, software development, and database management. Emmanuel ensures that the technology platforms DDS relies on are secure, scalable, and responsive to the evolving needs of various projects.

Beyond his technical skills, Emmanuel applies agile project management principles to deliver timely and high-quality outputs. He coordinates with cross-functional teams, providing technical support and training to improve digital literacy and system usage among colleagues and partner organizations. His previous roles as an ICT trainer and head of educational committees have strengthened his capacity to mentor others and promote knowledge sharing.

Emmanuel’s work contributes directly to the efficiency and impact of DDS’s research and operational activities, positioning technology as a key enabler for evidence-based policy-making and sustainable development in Sierra Leone.

Foday Mansaray is Survey Manager in the Research, Data Analytics & GIS Unit at Development Decision Support (DDS), where he leads the planning and execution of field research that underpins evidence-based policy and program decisions. With over five years of experience managing data collection in both urban and rural contexts, Foday plays a central role in ensuring the quality, reliability, and relevance of DDS’s research operations.

At DDS, Foday oversees survey design, enumerator training, and field supervision across a wide range of projects, including property tax research, local revenue studies, and citizen feedback initiatives. He is especially skilled at coordinating field teams, adapting research tools to local contexts, and maintaining high standards of data integrity under demanding conditions.

Foday holds a B.A. in History and Sociology from Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone. His experience includes work with the Institute for Governance Reform (IGR), R-DATS, Wageningen University, and the Innovative Hub for Research in Africa (IHfRA), supporting nationally recognized surveys such as Afrobarometer, the State of Education Report, and studies on youth, energy access, and child protection.

He is also a certified National Life Skills Facilitator, with a strong track record supporting community-based programs funded by UNICEF, UNFPA, and Irish Aid. Foday is proficient in digital research tools including KoboCollect, ODK, and SurveyCTO, and is known for his leadership, professionalism, and deep commitment to participatory, community-informed research.

Ibrahim Setigie Dumbuya is the Survey Manager in the Research, Data Analytics & GIS Unit at Development Decision Support (DDS), where he leads survey operations and field coordination for a wide range of research and evaluation assignments. With a background in Economics and a strong command of both digital and traditional survey methods, Ibrahim plays a critical role in ensuring the quality, integrity, and timeliness of DDS’s field data collection activities.

Ibrahim holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone. He has been actively involved in national-scale surveys, including the digital Cartographic Mapping exercise led by Statistics Sierra Leone, where he served first as a field mapper and later as a team lead. His hands-on experience with GPS-enabled data collection tools and tablet-based platforms has made him a dependable expert in digital enumeration and spatial data gathering.