By Millicent Senava Mannah
In a remarkable demonstration of solidarity and friendship, His Excellency Wang Qing, the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, presented substantial donations to the Ministry of Social Welfare and the Sierra Leone Police Force on Friday, April 5th, 2024.
The ceremony, held at the Chinese Embassy Spur Loop in Freetown for the Ministry of Social Welfare and at the Police Headquarters for the Sierra Leone Police Force, symbolized the enduring partnership between the two nations in addressing societal challenges.
Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, graciously accepted a significant donation from the Chinese Embassy, comprising Eight Hundred bags of Twenty-Five Kilograms of Rice, Sixty barrels of Ten liters cooking oil, and Thirty bags of Fifty Kilograms of Sugar. This generous contribution underscores the unwavering commitment of both China and Sierra Leone to support vulnerable communities, particularly during the Holy Month of Ramadan.
Speaking at the event, Melrose Karminty lauded the strategic partnership between her Ministry and the Chinese Embassy, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in uplifting vulnerable groups. She highlighted the Government’s proactive measures, including initiatives like #FEEDSALONE, aimed at mitigating the impact of external shocks on vulnerable groups.
The Minister also emphasized the significance of the donation in fostering solidarity within the Muslim community during Ramadan, symbolizing the spirit of compassion and support prevalent during this sacred month.
Ambassador Wang Qing, in his remarks at the Police Headquarters, commended the commendable efforts of the Sierra Leone Police in upholding the safety and security of the nation, particularly emphasizing their pivotal role in ensuring a peaceful electoral process during the June 2023 elections. The donation of 150 bags of rice, 20 Jerry cans of cooking oil, and 10 bags of sugar on behalf of the Sierra Leone Police Force reflects the goodwill towards the Muslim community within the force, especially during Ramadan.
IGP Fayia Sellu expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Chinese Embassy for their generous contribution, acknowledging the longstanding friendship between Sierra Leone and China. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Sierra Leone Police to ensuring the safety and security of the nation while extending support to the Chinese Embassy when needed.
The ceremony concluded with the formal handover of the donated items, symbolizing the strengthening of bonds and mutual respect between Sierra Leone and China.
The generous donations from the Chinese Embassy represent not only a tangible expression of solidarity but also a reaffirmation of the enduring friendship between Sierra Leone and China. As communities come together to celebrate Eid al-Fitr and reflect on the blessings of Ramadan, the spirit of generosity and compassion embodied in these gestures will continue to resonate, serving as a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
