Sierra Leone has renewed its commitment to strengthening economic and diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation, calling for increased investment, technology transfer and practical cooperation in energy, agriculture, mining and industrial development.
The appeal was made by Presidential Adviser Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, who represented President Dr Julius Maada Bio at the Third Russia–Africa Summit held in Moscow on Saturday, 31 October 2026.
Delivering a keynote address under the theme, “Developing Mutually Beneficial Cooperation and Unlocking the Potential of Every African Country Together,” Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba challenged African countries and Russia to transform their longstanding diplomatic relationships into meaningful economic partnerships capable of improving livelihoods and accelerating sustainable development.
Conveying President Bio’s greetings, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba explained that the President was unable to attend because of prior state engagements. He expressed appreciation to Russian President, Vladimir Putin, for the invitation and commended the Russian Government for its hospitality.
Addressing delegates, the Presidential Adviser stressed that Africa’s enormous natural resources, youthful population and expanding markets present significant opportunities for economic transformation. However, he observed that inadequate infrastructure, food insecurity, limited industrialization and persistent development challenges continue to undermine the continent’s potential.
“The task before us now is to move from diplomatic solidarity to practical action,” he declared.
Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba emphasized that Sierra Leone remains determined to attract responsible foreign investment that supports industrial growth, employment creation, skills development and domestic value addition.
Reflecting on the 64-year diplomatic relationship between Sierra Leone and Russia, he reaffirmed President Bio’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation through sustained engagement and effective implementation of agreements.
He welcomed the reopening of the Russian Embassy in Freetown and the establishment of the Russian House, describing both developments as important platforms for expanding educational, cultural, institutional and commercial exchanges.
Drawing on his personal experience as a graduate of Saint Petersburg University, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba acknowledged the longstanding contribution of Russian educational institutions to Sierra Leone’s human capital development.
Energy cooperation featured prominently in his address, with the Presidential Adviser identifying reliable electricity as essential to Sierra Leone’s industrialization and economic competitiveness.
He called for greater Russian participation in electricity generation, petroleum exploration, oil and gas development, energy infrastructure and peaceful nuclear-energy technology.
According to Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, improved power generation is indispensable for attracting investment, expanding manufacturing and creating sustainable employment opportunities.
Turning to agriculture, he highlighted President Bio’s flagship Feed Salone initiative as a major national development priority requiring strategic international partnerships.
He encouraged Russian investment and technical cooperation in agricultural mechanization, fertilizer production, improved seed development, modern farming technology and postgraduate agricultural training.
Such collaboration, he explained, would strengthen food security, increase agricultural productivity and create opportunities for young Sierra Leoneans.
The Presidential Adviser also acknowledged Russia’s scholarship programmes, including the Open Doors Scholarship scheme, which continues to provide educational opportunities for Sierra Leonean students.
In the extractive sector, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba invited greater Russian participation in geological mapping, mineral exploration, petroleum development and related infrastructure.
However, he emphasized that investments must be transparent, environmentally responsible and mutually beneficial, ensuring that Sierra Leone derives lasting benefits through employment, infrastructure development and technology transfer.
He disclosed that several bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding were being prepared for signature during the summit.
Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba further highlighted ongoing efforts to improve Sierra Leone’s investment environment through institutional reforms involving the Anti-Corruption Commission, Corporate Affairs Commission and National Investment Board.
He reaffirmed the Government’s determination to combat corruption, strengthen transparency and eliminate unnecessary barriers to legitimate business activities.
Beyond economic cooperation, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba addressed regional security challenges, including terrorism, violent extremism and public health emergencies, stressing the importance of coordinated international responses.
On global governance, he reiterated Sierra Leone’s commitment to United Nations Security Council reform in its capacity as Coordinator of the African Union Committee of Ten.
He welcomed Russia’s support for stronger African representation and urged continued backing for the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration.
“A partnership of equals requires institutions that reflect the realities of the 21st century and address the historical injustice done to Africa,” he maintained.
Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba also supported international cooperation promoting the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space.
Concluding his address, he urged participating countries to ensure that commitments emerging from Moscow produce measurable improvements in economic development.
He expressed Sierra Leone’s readiness to work with Russia and other African nations to translate previous declarations adopted in Saint Petersburg, Sochi and Cairo into productive industries, modern farms, reliable power infrastructure and meaningful employment.
Accompanying the Presidential Adviser at the Grand Kremlin Palace was Sierra Leone’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Russian Federation, His Excellency Mohamed Yongawo.
Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba concluded by expressing appreciation to President Vladimir Putin and the Russian people, reaffirming Sierra Leone’s determination to build a stronger partnership grounded in shared prosperity, mutual respect and sustainable economic progress.
