By: Aminaash Nyande Brima Information Attaché Sierra Leone Embassy
Rabat, Morocco
On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador Designate to Morocco, H.E. Alhaji Momodu Koroma, held his first meeting with the staff of the Sierra Leone Embassy in Rabat. The gathering, held in the Embassy’s conference hall, centered on fostering unity, dedication, collaboration, and support among the team.
The Head of Chancery, James Sylvanus Lebbie, introduced Ambassador Koroma and extended a warm welcome on behalf of the Embassy staff, urging everyone to offer the Ambassador their full support.
In his address, Ambassador Alhaji Momodu Koroma expressed gratitude for the warm reception and commended the Embassy’s achievements since its establishment in 2021. He attributed these accomplishments to the combined efforts of both diplomatic and local staff. He encouraged them to continue their hard work for the mutual benefit of Sierra Leone and Morocco.
Ambassador Koroma shared that, upon departing Sierra Leone, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio emphasized the importance of the relationship between Sierra Leone and Morocco, highlighting that both nations are longstanding friends. The Ambassador underscored that President Bio, upon assigning him to Morocco, admonished him to use his vast experience in diplomacy to strengthen the partnership for the benefit of both countries.
The Ambassador underscored that President Bio specifically assigned him to Morocco due to his experience, intending to strengthen the partnership for the benefit of both countries.
He noted Sierra Leone’s past challenges but affirmed that President Bio’s administration is progressing toward economic stability. He further acknowledged Morocco’s support for Sierra Leone and highlighted that Morocco remains committed to furthering assistance in various areas.
Addressing President Bio’s ‘Big Five’ Agenda, Ambassador Koroma confirmed substantial strides, especially highlighting human capital development and “Feed Salone” initiatives as two cardinal areas that have seen more progress.
He said that these initiatives are beginning to show tangible outcomes that will lead to increased rice production, expanding food value chains and hopefully generate massive job opportunities for women and youth, which will lead to increased rural incomes.
Ambassador Koroma also emphasized the significance of recent international support, including the $248.5 million funding agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the $480 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact approved by the United States. He stated that these agreements are a testament to President Bio’s commitment to Sierra Leone’s transformation.
In job creation, he disclosed Morocco’s commitment to training over 100 Sierra Leoneans annually in specialized fields and noted that Moroccan investors are currently exploring opportunities in Sierra Leone, which will contribute to economic growth and job creation.
As the newly appointed Ambassador, he vowed to build on his predecessor’s accomplishments and continue advancing Sierra Leone-Morocco relations. He called on the Embassy staff to prepare for the tasks ahead, stressing the importance of unity, diligence, and dedication to serving Sierra Leone’s interests.
Ambassador Koroma concluded by welcoming open communication, encouraging staff to approach him on matters concerning the country’s welfare, and reaffirming his commitment to working together to uphold Sierra Leone’s positive image.
Embassy staff congratulated and welcomed the Ambassador, pledging their full support. They are committed to upholding the Embassy’s standards and advancing its mission.
