By Foday Moriba Conteh
On Saturday, September 28, 2024, the Confucius Institute at the University of Sierra Leone (USL) concluded its 2nd China-Sierra Leone Food Festival on the theme: “Save the Flavors Embrace the Cultures.” The event, which showcased the culinary heritage of China and Sierra Leone in a vibrant cultural exchange, was held at the Confucius Institute of Fourah Bay College on the University of Sierra Leone (USL) Campus in Freetown.
The 2nd Food Festival brought together Chinese food companies and organizations in Sierra Leone, including Bintumani Hotel, Leone Rock Metal Group and Royal Grand Leone, among others. Chefs from these Chinese companies showcased traditional dishes such as ramen, dumplings, fried dough sticks etc. Meanwhile, Sierra Leonean chefs demonstrated the preparation of local delicacies like foo-foo and cassava leaf etc. Participants enjoyed a rich cultural exchange, experiencing a diverse feast that highlighted the mutual learning and culinary traditions of both nations all free of charge.
In his opening remarks, Professor Chen Xuebin, Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute, welcomed the audience, emphasizing the importance of food as a gateway to understanding cultural heritage.
He highlighted how the event serves not only to satisfy the palate but also to deepen connections between China and Sierra Leone.
“Food is a gateway to culture, offering insight into the history, customs and values of a people,” Professor Chen said adding, “By exploring these dishes, we hope you will discover the shared warmth and hospitality that both China and Sierra Leone offer.”
Professor Chen Xuebin, praised their efforts, saying their participation was a testament to the strong collaboration and friendship between the two countries.
His Excellency, Wang Qing, Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, in his speech highlighted that Chinese food is the name card of Chinese culture and a bridge for cultural exchanges between China and Sierra Leone.
He added that this year, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio visited China twice and reached important consensus with President Xi Jinping on strengthening exchanges and cooperation in various fields such as humanities.
“The Food Festival is committed to enhancing exchanges and mutual learning between the peoples of the two countries and promoting people-to-people exchanges and will provide support for deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Sierra Leone” Ambassador Wang revealed.
He concluded by expressing appreciation to the Chinese institutions and personnel in Sierra Leone for their long-term positive contributions to the friendly cooperation between the two countries.
Dr. Reynold Johnson, Dean of the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences at Fourah Bay College (FBC), representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kelleh G. Mansaray, conveyed greetings from the leadership of the University of Sierra Leone and praised the growing cultural and educational ties between the two nations.
The Dean acknowledged the significance of the Confucius Institute in strengthening cultural exchange and providing educational opportunities, particularly in language learning and cultural performances.
“Since the establishment of the Confucius Institute at Fourah Bay College, many of our students and staff have benefited from studying the Chinese language, and some have even visited China,” Dr. Reynold Johnson noted. He highlighted the “electrifying” performances by Chinese cultural groups, both at FBC and on the national stage, which have enriched the campus community.
Reflecting on the longstanding diplomatic relationship between China and Sierra Leone, which spans over 50 years, Dr. Reynold Johnson underscored Sierra Leone’s pivotal role in advocating for China’s permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. He acknowledged the positive global impact of China’s presence on the Council, noting that it has contributed to the shift from a unipolar to a multipolar world.
He ended by extending hearty congratulations to the Chinese Government and People in advance of their upcoming national anniversary, wishing them continued success and emphasizing the mutual benefits of the close partnership between China and Sierra Leone.
The event concluded with an invitation for all attendees to enjoy the culinary experience, symbolizing the growing bonds between the two nations.
