By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The European Union and Sierra Leone have commemorated fifty years of diplomatic partnership and development cooperation, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening collaboration in governance, economic transformation, democracy, peacebuilding and sustainable development.
The historic Golden Jubilee Anniversary of the EU–Sierra Leone partnership, marking five decades since the European Union established its office in Freetown in 1976, was officially inaugurated during a high-profile Europe Day 2026 reception held at the Country Lodge Hotel in Freetown on Thursday, 28th May 2026.
Hosted by the European Union Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Jacek Jankowski, the ceremony brought together senior Government officials, Members of Parliament, diplomats, representatives of Civil Society Organizations, the media and members of the international community.
Among those in attendance were Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Minister Kenyeh Barlay of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, ambassadors of EU member states including Germany, Ireland and France, as well as Honorary Consuls representing several European countries.
Speaking during the occasion, Ambassador Jacek Jankowski described the relationship between Sierra Leone and the European Union as one built on mutual respect, resilience, peace, democracy and sustainable development.
Reflecting on Europe Day and the significance of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, Ambassador Jacek Jankowski recalled the historic Schuman Declaration of 9th May 1950 by former French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman, noting that it laid the foundation for a united Europe based on peace and cooperation.
“Former enemies could become permanent partners, shared interests are stronger than shared grievances and fundamental values held in common are a foundation compass,” Ambassador Jacek Jankowski stated.
He observed that Sierra Leone, having emerged from a painful civil conflict and embraced reconciliation and democratic governance, understands the importance of dialogue and unity.
“Sierra Leone and Europe have shared a lot; history, struggle for peace and development, resilience. This year, we mark the golden jubilee of a partnership that we celebrate tonight and tonight we renew our commitment to it,” he said.
Ambassador Jacek Jankowski highlighted the vast scope of cooperation between the European Union and Sierra Leone over the last fifty years, disclosing that the EU has invested approximately 1.7 billion Euros in Sierra Leone’s economy, including nearly half a billion Euros in direct budget support.
According to him, the European Union remains the only development partner currently providing grants directly to Sierra Leone’s national budget, thereby aligning fully with the country’s national development priorities.
He emphasized that the EU remained a dependable partner even during Sierra Leone’s most difficult periods, including the civil war, the Ebola outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Even in the hardest times during the civil war, the EU never discontinued its assistance. To the contrary, we were there massively to support post-war reconstruction and electoral processes,” Ambassador Jacek Jankowski noted.
The EU Ambassador further disclosed plans to deepen engagement through the European Union’s Global Gateway initiative, which focuses on infrastructure development, green and digital transition, agricultural value chains and private sector investment.
He also announced the imminent establishment of an EU Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone aimed at promoting trade and investment relations between Sierra Leone and European markets.
Ambassador Jacek Jankowski pointed out that Sierra Leone continues to benefit from the European Union’s “Everything But Arms” trade arrangement, which provides duty-free and quota-free access for Sierra Leonean exports into European markets.
Addressing governance and democratic reforms, Ambassador Jacek Jankowski commended Sierra Leone’s continued openness to democratic engagement since the end of the civil war in 2002.
He noted that successive Governments in Sierra Leone have consistently invited European Union election observers to monitor national elections, describing the move as a sign of trust in the EU’s impartiality and commitment to democratic standards.
The Ambassador also acknowledged Sierra Leone’s leadership within the international community, particularly its tenure as a Non-Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council in 2024 and 2025 and President Julius Maada Bio’s current role as Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.
He praised Sierra Leone’s position on multilateralism, international law and regional peacebuilding while stressing the importance of dialogue, democratic governance and economic integration across West Africa.
On global security matters, Ambassador Jacek Jankowski reiterated the European Union’s position on Russia’s war in Ukraine and expressed concern over reports involving Sierra Leone’s flag being linked to vessels allegedly connected to the Russian shadow fleet.
He stressed that the issue was raised in the spirit of partnership and constructive dialogue.
The Ambassador further emphasized that the European Union’s partnership with Sierra Leone remains grounded in respect for human rights, the rule of law and democratic accountability.
He acknowledged growing international attention surrounding drug trafficking concerns and assured Sierra Leone of continued European cooperation and support in addressing governance and security challenges.
Representing President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, commended the European Union for its unwavering support to Sierra Leone over the past five decades.
He described the EU as a reliable and strategic partner whose contributions have significantly impacted democratic governance, peacebuilding, infrastructure, health, agriculture, fisheries, education, climate resilience and human capital development.
“This occasion is not only a celebration of enduring friendship but also a reflection of a relationship built on shared values, mutual respect, solidarity, peace and sustainable development,” Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba stated.
He explained that Sierra Leone values its partnership with the European Union as one that directly contributes to the Government’s “Big Five Game Changer” agenda, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
The Foreign Affairs Minister welcomed the European Union’s Global Gateway initiative, describing it as an important opportunity for Sierra Leone to strengthen investments in renewable energy, digital transformation, transport connectivity, healthcare systems, education, private sector growth and sustainable infrastructure.
According to him, Sierra Leone remains committed to ensuring that the initiative delivers tangible benefits, particularly for young people and women across the country.
Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba also highlighted the importance of regional peace and counter-terrorism cooperation, noting that terrorism remains one of the greatest threats facing West Africa.
He referenced President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership within ECOWAS and Sierra Leone’s active role during its tenure on the United Nations Security Council in advancing dialogue and cooperation on regional security issues affecting the Sahel and West Africa.
The Foreign Affairs Minister further reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to democracy, constitutional governance, human rights and inclusive political dialogue, while commending the support provided by the European Union in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting peace and national cohesion.
He concluded by congratulating the European Union on Europe Day 2026 and the remarkable milestone of fifty years of partnership with Sierra Leone.
“May this enduring relationship continue to flourish for generations to come,” Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba stated as guests raised glasses in a toast celebrating the continued friendship and cooperation between Sierra Leone and the European Union.
The event concluded with renewed commitments from both Sierra Leone and the European Union to continue strengthening their partnership based on shared values, economic cooperation, regional stability and sustainable development.
Raising a toast at the close of the ceremony, Ambassador Jacek Jankowski declared that Europe and Sierra Leone remain united by enduring friendship and shared ambitions for a more prosperous future.
“Together, we are Team Europe. Together, we look forward to a future with Sierra Leone built on shared values, shared ambitions and enduring friendship,” he stated.
