Sierra Leone Calls for Practical Russia Partnerships at Moscow Summit

Sierra Leone has called for stronger economic and diplomatic cooperation with Russia, with a focus on converting longstanding relations into investment and development projects.

Presidential Adviser Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba delivered Sierra Leone’s address at the Third Russia–Africa Summit in Moscow on 31 October 2026, representing President Dr Julius Maada Bio. Kabba said the President was unable to attend because of prior state engagements.

Speaking under the theme “Developing Mutually Beneficial Cooperation and Unlocking the Potential of Every African Country Together,” Kabba urged Russia and African countries to move beyond diplomatic declarations and pursue practical cooperation.

“The task before us now is to move from diplomatic solidarity to practical action,” he said.

Focus on energy, agriculture and mining

Kabba called for increased Russian investment, technology transfer and technical cooperation in sectors identified as important to Sierra Leone’s development. These included energy, agriculture, mining and industrial development.

In the energy sector, he invited Russian participation in electricity generation, petroleum exploration, oil and gas development, energy infrastructure and the peaceful use of nuclear-energy technology. He described reliable electricity as essential to Sierra Leone’s industrialisation and economic competitiveness.

He also encouraged cooperation in agricultural mechanisation, fertiliser production, improved seed development, modern farming technology and postgraduate agricultural training. Kabba described the Feed Salone initiative as a major national development priority requiring strategic international partnerships.

On mining and related industries, he called for greater Russian involvement in geological mapping, mineral exploration, petroleum development and supporting infrastructure. He said investments in Sierra Leone’s extractive sector should be transparent, environmentally responsible and mutually beneficial.

Diplomatic and education links

Kabba highlighted the reopening of the Russian Embassy in Freetown and the establishment of the Russian House as platforms for expanding educational, cultural, institutional and commercial exchanges between the two countries.

He also acknowledged Russian scholarship programmes, including the Open Doors Scholarship scheme, which provide educational opportunities for Sierra Leonean students.

Sierra Leone and Russia have maintained diplomatic relations for 64 years, according to Kabba. He said the country remained committed to attracting responsible foreign investment that supports industrial growth, employment creation, skills development and domestic value addition.

Kabba disclosed that several bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding were being prepared for signature during the summit. The available information does not establish whether those instruments were ultimately signed.

Security and global governance

The Presidential Adviser addressed regional challenges including terrorism, violent extremism and public health emergencies. He also reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s support for reform of the United Nations Security Council and stronger African representation.

“A partnership of equals requires institutions that reflect the realities of the 21st century and address the historical injustice done to Africa,” Kabba said.

He reiterated Sierra Leone’s backing for the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, while supporting continued international cooperation on the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space.

Kabba said Sierra Leone was pursuing institutional reforms to improve its investment environment and had reaffirmed efforts to combat corruption, strengthen transparency and remove unnecessary barriers to legitimate business. The efforts involve institutions including the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Corporate Affairs Commission and the National Investment Board.

He said Sierra Leone was ready to work with Russia and other African countries to implement previous summit declarations adopted in Saint Petersburg, Sochi and Cairo. The intended outcome, he said, was cooperation that could contribute to productive industries, modern farms, reliable power infrastructure and employment.