Sierra Leone Pushes for Deeper Economic Cooperation with Russia at Moscow Summi

Korovy Val, Russia, October 31, 2026 – Sierra Leone has called for a stronger and more practical partnership with Russia, focused on trade, energy, agriculture, investment, and technology transfer, as the Third Russia–Africa Summit convened in Moscow.

Delivering a keynote address on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio, Presidential Adviser Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba implored Russia and Africa to move beyond diplomatic solidarity and translate longstanding political ties into tangible economic gains.

Speaking under the summit theme, “Developing Mutually Beneficial Cooperation and Unlocking the Potential of Every African Country Together,” Kabba said the next phase of Russia-Africa relations should be defined by concrete outcomes that improve livelihoods and accelerate development across the continent.

He conveyed President Bio’s greetings to the summit and informed that the President could not attend because of prior state engagements. Kabba also expressed appreciation to Russian President Vladimir Putin for the invitation and thanked the Government and people of the Russian Federation for their hospitality.

Describing the gathering as a reflection of the enduring friendship between Russia and Africa, he said both sides share commitments to peace, prosperity, sovereign equality, and sustainable development.

“The task before us now is to move from diplomatic solidarity to practical action,” Kabba told delegates, noting that while Africa possesses abundant natural resources, a youthful population, and significant economic potential, many countries continue to face challenges including conflict, food insecurity, health crises, inadequate energy infrastructure, and limited economic diversification.

He said Sierra Leone is seeking partnerships anchored in increased trade, responsible investment, technology transfer, and local value addition.

Kabba noted that Sierra Leone and the Russian Federation have enjoyed cordial bilateral relations for 64 years and said President Bio remains committed to deepening those ties through sustained dialogue, effective implementation of agreements, and expanded cooperation. He added that, as an alumnus of Saint Petersburg University, he is himself a beneficiary of the relationship between the two countries.

The Presidential Adviser also welcomed the reopening of the Russian Embassy in Freetown and the establishment of the Russian House, describing both developments as important steps toward strengthening people-to-people, institutional, and business relations.

On climate change, he expressed Sierra Leone’s appreciation for Russia’s support in environmental protection and climate-related initiatives.

Energy featured prominently in his address, with Kabba describing access to reliable electricity as one of Africa’s most urgent development priorities. He noted: “improved power generation is essential for industrialization, value addition, trade, and investment”

Alhaji Kabba called for continued Russian support in power generation, oil and gas development, energy infrastructure, and peaceful nuclear-energy expertise to help address Sierra Leone’s longstanding energy challenges.

Turning to agriculture, Kabba highlighted President Bio’s flagship Feed Salone initiative and called for enhanced collaboration in agrotechnology, fertilizer production, seed development, and mechanized farming.

He also sought expanded opportunities for postgraduate studies and professional exchanges in agriculture, noting that such partnerships could bolster food security, create employment opportunities for young people, and promote local value addition.

The Presidential Adviser further thanked Russia for its annual scholarship programs, including the Open Doors Scholarship scheme, which has enabled Sierra Leonean students to pursue studies at leading Russian universities.

In line with the summit’s focus on economic and humanitarian cooperation, Kabba invited greater Russian involvement in petroleum exploration, geological mapping, mining, and energy infrastructure development.

However, he stressed that all investments must be transparent, sustainable, and mutually beneficial, while contributing to infrastructure development, skills transfer, and lasting local value addition.

He said several agreements and memoranda of understanding were being prepared for signature on the margins of the summit. He noted that Sierra Leone continues to strengthen its investment climate through reforms led by institutions such as the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Corporate Affairs Commission, and the National Investment Board.

Kabba reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating corruption and removing barriers to responsible trade and investment.

Addressing regional security concerns, he said terrorism, violent extremism, and health emergencies requires coordinated responses through the African Union, ECOWAS, and broader international cooperation.

On United Nations Security Council reform, Kabba reiterated Sierra Leone’s position as Coordinator of the African Union Committee of Ten and welcomed Russia’s support for increased African representation on the Council.

He urged Moscow to continue advocating for the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, which seek permanent African representation in a reformed Security Council.

“A partnership of equals requires institutions that reflect the realities of the 21st century and address the historical injustice done to Africa,” he said.

The Presidential Adviser also joined calls for the peaceful, secure, and sustainable use of outer space for the benefit of all humanity.

Concluding his address, Kabba challenged participants to ensure the Moscow summit becomes a turning point in Russia-Africa relations, where commitments translate into tangible development outcomes.

He said Sierra Leone stands ready to work with Russia and African partners to transform the declarations adopted in Saint Petersburg, Sochi, and Cairo into factories, farms, power plants, skills, and jobs.

On behalf of President Bio, the Government, and the people of Sierra Leone, Kabba expressed gratitude to President Putin and the Russian people for their friendship and continued commitment to strengthening cooperation between Sierra Leone, Africa, and the Russian Federation.

“Our success,” he suggested, “will ultimately be measured not by the declarations we adopt, but by the opportunities, industries, and prosperity we create for our people.”

Accompanying the Head of Delegation at the Grand Kremlin Palace was His Excellency

Amb. Mohamed Yongawo, Sierra Leone's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Russian Federation

For inquiries:

Festus J. Lahai

Information Attaché

Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone

Moscow, Russian Federation