Sierra Leone and Saudi Arabia are exploring wider cooperation in technology, information, culture and investment following discussions between Information and Civic Education Minister Chernor Bah and Saudi Ambassador Saud Al-Musa’ed.

Table Of Content

Technology and knowledge sharing
Cultural and information cooperation
Investment and continued engagement

The talks took place during Bah’s courtesy visit to the Royal Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Freetown. The two officials discussed ways to build on the longstanding relationship between the two countries and identify practical areas for closer engagement.

Technology and knowledge sharing

The discussions included potential cooperation in emerging technologies and artificial intelligence. Bah said Sierra Leone was interested in stronger partnerships with Saudi Arabia in these fields, as well as in cultural exchange and investment.

According to the minister, Saudi Arabia’s growing capabilities in artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies could create opportunities for closer engagement, knowledge sharing and cooperation that would benefit Sierra Leone.

Cultural and information cooperation

Bah also proposed greater cultural collaboration through the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation. He suggested that audiences in Sierra Leone could be introduced to stories about Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage, including both Islamic and non-Islamic aspects of Saudi society.

The minister said increased cultural exchanges could promote mutual understanding and strengthen people-to-people relations between Sierra Leone and Saudi Arabia.

He further proposed discussions on a possible Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and the Saudi Embassy. Bah said such an agreement could identify specific areas of cooperation and provide a framework for sustained joint initiatives.

Investment and continued engagement

Investment was also identified as an area for potential cooperation. Bah highlighted opportunities for increased Saudi investment, saying it could support Sierra Leone’s economic growth and broader development aspirations. No specific investment project, financial commitment or value was announced.

Bah identified Al-Musa’ed as the first resident ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Sierra Leone. Saudi Arabia has contributed to various development initiatives in Sierra Leone over the years, while the two countries maintain a longstanding relationship and friendship.

Al-Musa’ed reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to maintaining and strengthening its relationship with Sierra Leone. He also recognized the role of the Ministry of Information and Civic Education in national development, public information and citizen engagement.

Both officials agreed to maintain regular consultations as they continue examining potential areas of mutual interest. The discussions did not result in a confirmed Memorandum of Understanding or specific projects being announced.