Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Russia, H.E. Mohamed Yongawo, recently paid a courtesy visit to Her Excellency Madam Tatyana Dovgalenko, Director of the Department for Partnership with Africa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation in Korovy Val, Moscow on March 10th 2025.
During the visit, Ambassador Yongawo congratulated Madam Dovgalenko on her appointment and commended the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for establishing this unique department. He expressed hope that the new structure would facilitate enhanced cooperation between the Russian Federation and African countries, particularly Sierra Leone, strengthening bilateral relations for mutual benefit.
Ambassador Yongawo discussed the potential for expanding bilateral collaboration in various sectors, including Health, Trade and Investment, Education, Agriculture (Feed Salone), and Energy. He also acknowledged the ongoing support the Russian Federation provides by training Sierra Leonean students in various fields of study.
The Ambassador and Madam Dovgalenko explored the possibility of promoting Russian investment in Sierra Leone, including organising a Trade and Investment mission in Freetown. This initiative would create a platform for both Sierra Leonean and Russian businesses to collaborate, particularly in the industrial sector.
In his remarks, Ambassador Yongawo emphasised the need for the partnership between Russia and African countries to learn from other international collaborations. He stressed the importance of decision-making at the highest levels and efficient project implementation at the country level. The Ambassador highlighted the necessity of better utilising resources, completing projects, and honouring various Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) that have been signed and will be signed in the future.
In response, Madam Dovgalenko expressed her gratitude to Ambassador Yongawo and his staff for the visit. She noted that the formation of her department was a clear indication of Russia’s growing relations with Africa. She explained that the establishment of the Department for Partnership with Africa reflects the Russian government’s priority and commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation with the African continent.
Madam Dovgalenko also emphasised that her department would collaborate with the African Union, regional economic communities, and individual African nations to ensure the smooth and efficient implementation of agreements.
The two diplomats also discussed various issues related to multilateral, bilateral, and sub-regional organizations.
Ambassador Mohamed Yongawo was accompanied by Mr. Ibrahim Saspo Sankoh, Head of Chancery, and Ms. Rosetta M. Conteh, Second Secretary.
