By: Aminata Sesay
India has hailed Sierra Leone as one of West Africa’s most promising investment destinations, with the Indian High Commissioner praising recent reforms, rising trade flows, and expanding cooperation in skills development.
Speaking to diplomats, private sector leaders, and students, the High Commissioner commended the government’s sustained efforts to strengthen Sierra Leone’s economic environment. He highlighted the establishment of the One-Stop Shop for Investment Services and the momentum generated by recent manufacturing and investment forums.
He noted that Indian business engagement in Sierra Leone dates to the pre-independence era but is now accelerating due to improved security, political stability, and a more favourable investment climate. Indian companies, he added, are experiencing smoother operations, including faster port clearances, improved logistics, and better road access.
Trade between the two nations has grown by nearly 300 percent over the past decade—a development he described as a clear reflection of deepening confidence and shared economic ambition. He also disclosed that several Indian firms are exploring investments in Sierra Leone’s hydropower and solar energy sectors.
On capacity building, the High Commissioner highlighted India’s extensive training programmes for Sierra Leonean officials, covering policy, business regulation, and investment facilitation. More than 500 government officers have benefited over the past seven years. This year alone, 47 Sierra Leonean students received scholarships, while over 200 others have privately enrolled in Indian universities in the last two years.
He emphasised Sierra Leone’s strong human capital as a major asset, noting that the growing manufacturing, hospitality, retail, and construction sectors will require enhanced technical and vocational skills areas in which India is prepared to offer continued support.
The High Commissioner encouraged deeper collaboration between local institutions and the Indian High Commission. He also announced India’s upcoming Global Artificial Intelligence Summit in New Delhi, inviting Sierra Leonean companies to join this global gathering of technology innovators.
Placing the partnership within India’s wider development cooperation with Africa, he noted that India has invested more than US$10 billion in government-funded projects and over US$40 billion through private sector ventures on the continent in the last two decades.
Concluding his address, he reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s economic transformation and strengthening bilateral ties.
“I am proud of the growing Indian investment in Sierra Leone,” he said. “Our partnership will continue to flourish.”