The Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) was founded on the principle that public policy should be informed by rigorous, evidence-based research and advocacy. At the time, Sierra Leone’s engagement with external development partners and its own citizens was often characterised by a notable absence of independent institutions capable of generating reliable data, conducting objective analysis, and critically examining government policies and priorities.

Recognising this gap, IGR’s founders came together with a shared commitment to promoting transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability in Sierra Leone’s political and economic institutions, while addressing the governance challenges that can give rise to conflict and instability. At their inaugural meeting in January 2013, they resolved to establish an organisation that would move public policy debates beyond partisan politics and superficial analysis, fostering more informed dialogue and advancing practical, effective approaches to governance reform.

IGR was formally established in February 2013 as a non-partisan institution committed to producing locally grounded research and engaging continuously in evidence-based public policy advocacy. In March 2013, the Institute was registered with the Office of the Registrar General as a think tank and advocacy organisation under the laws of Sierra Leone.