Sierra Leone’s Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Hon. Mohamed Rahman Swaray, has arrived in the Russian Federation for high-level discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and expanding employment opportunities for Sierra Leonean youth.
The official visit focuses on collaboration with the Alabuga Start programme, an initiative under the Alabuga Special Economic Zone (SEZ Alabuga). The programme provides vocational training and structured employment pathways for young people, including international participants.
Minister Swaray is accompanied by Mr. Sinneh Bockarie, Commissioner of Labour and Employment, and Mr. Moses B. Conteh, Head of the Labour Migration Unit. The delegation is expected to undertake a comprehensive tour of the SEZ Alabuga facilities, receive detailed briefings on programme outcomes, and meet Sierra Leonean participants currently enrolled in the scheme.
Upon arrival in Kazan, the delegation was welcomed by Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Russia, His Excellency Mohamed Yongawo, alongside Ms. Rosetta M. Conteh, Esq., and senior officials from the Alabuga Start programme and the Government of Tatarstan.
Officials at SEZ Alabuga have expressed optimism that the ministerial visit and any resulting agreements will further strengthen ties between Sierra Leone and the Russian Federation, particularly in the areas of youth skills development, vocational training, and overseas employment opportunities.
The visit underscores the Government of Sierra Leone’s continued commitment to creating international partnerships that enhance skills transfer, broaden employment prospects, and empower young people to participate meaningfully in the global workforce.