Post a comment
Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, visited the Sierra Leone High Commission in Holborn on Friday, 16th May, 2025, aiming to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties with the UK.
Upon arrival, Dr. Sengeh was warmly welcomed by High Commissioner H.E. Dr. Morie Manyeh, Deputy High Commissioner Mrs. Yvonne King Odigboh, and the staff of the Mission.
Dr. Manyeh commended the Chief Minister for his patriotism and service to the nation. In response, Dr. Sengeh expressed his gratitude and threw light on the significance of open dialogue within the mission, encouraging staff to share their views and feedback.
Reflecting on his previous visits to the UK as Education Minister, Dr. Sengeh stated that his mission focuses on enhancing diplomatic and economic relationships with the UK, which he described as a “reliable partner” with shared interests.
He further pointed out mutual priorities such as gender equality, protection of children and women’s rights, climate action, and development programs, all aligned with President Bio’s Big Five Agenda.
Dr. Sengeh stressed the need for Sierra Leone to present itself not as a nation seeking aid but as one looking for mutually beneficial investments. “This is not charity,” he asserted, stressing that trade and investment are crucial for “creating jobs, adding value, and strengthening the economy.”
The Chief Minister also underscored the importance of the High Commission’s role in tracking and supporting outcomes from bilateral meetings. He reiterated the need for dignity and clarity in international engagements.
His visit followed a series of productive meetings with UK political and business leaders, including former British Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair, UK Minister for Africa Lord Collins, and British International Investment (BII) CEO Lesley Maasdorf. As a result of those discussions, Sierra Leone has been designated a “strategic investment priority” by BII, which currently manages a $100 million portfolio in the country and intends to double that investment.
During his meeting with the High Commission staff, Dr. Sengeh proposed the establishment of a Diaspora Investment Desk to facilitate investment opportunities through national bodies like the National Investment Board (NIB). He praised Sierra Leonean entrepreneurs such as Idris Elba and Foday Labrum Dumbuya for attracting global interest and capital.
Addressing concerns about bottlenecks in clearing goods from ports, Dr. Sengeh committed to accelerating reforms. “We build systems in order to eradicate or minimize human failings,” he stated, promising to implement policy changes and strengthen institutional support.
Following his visit to the High Commission, Dr. Sengeh attended meetings with private capital firms focused on investing in projects that protect ecosystems while promoting sustainable economic growth. The visit concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr. Mohamed Kapu Lungay, who praised the Chief Minister’s leadership and forward-looking approach to development.
