CHIEF MINISTER FLAGS EU PARTNERSHIP AT EURO-CHAM LAUNCH

Freetown, Country Lodge, Tuesday 9 June 2026 – Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, representing His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, has reaffirmed the Government of Sierra Leone’s commitment to strengthening economic cooperation with the European Union (EU) and promoting Sierra Leone as a premier destination for investment and business growth.

Speaking at the official launch of the European Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone (EuroCham) and the 3rd Sierra Leone–EU Public-Private Dialogue, Dr. Sengeh conveyed President Bio’s apologies for his absence, noting that the President remains deeply committed to fostering stronger relations between Sierra Leone and the European Union. The event brought together government officials, European investors, development partners, members of the private sector, and diplomatic representatives to discuss investment opportunities, strengthen public-private collaboration, and advance sustainable economic development.

Dr. Sengeh emphasized that the Government’s vision for enhanced EU-Sierra Leone relations is rooted in tangible achievements and strategic investments already underway across key sectors of the economy. He noted that Sierra Leone continues to attract growing interest from European companies and investors, citing the continued operations of Brussels Airlines and the establishment of modern technical and vocational training facilities as examples of successful international partnerships. Highlighting the importance of investing in human capital, the Chief Minister referenced the state-of-the-art automotive training facility at the Government Technical Institute as a model of effective collaboration among European partners, the Government of Sierra Leone, and international financiers. “Together, we are delivering results. These partnerships are not theoretical; they demonstrate what can be achieved when governments, businesses, and development partners work together with a common purpose,” he stated.

Dr. Sengeh also pointed to emerging success stories in agriculture and value addition, including Sierra Leonean coffee and chocolate products gaining access to European markets. He further highlighted ongoing investments by Sonoco and Sierra Leone Flour Mill, stressing the importance of increasing local agricultural production to support industrial growth and reduce dependence on imports. The Chief Minister assured investors that the Government remains committed to addressing energy challenges and creating a conducive business environment, expressing optimism that ongoing reforms and investments will significantly improve power supply and industrial productivity by 2027. Speaking at the event, European Union Ambassador to Sierra Leone Jacek Jankowski described the launch of EuroCham as a significant milestone and a strong signal that Sierra Leone is open and ready for business.

Ambassador Jankowski underscored the EU’s continued commitment to supporting private sector development, investment promotion, and economic transformation in Sierra Leone.

Meanwhile, Minister of Trade and Industry Alpha Ibrahim Sesay welcomed participants to both the inauguration of EuroCham and the 3rd Public-Private Dialogue, describing the occasion as a landmark moment in strengthening collaboration between the Government of Sierra Leone, the European Union, and the private sector.

The establishment of EuroCham is expected to provide a structured platform for European businesses operating in Sierra Leone while fostering investment, innovation, and trade partnerships that contribute to national development. The discussions aligned closely with President Bio’s Big Five Game Changers, particularly through investments in agriculture, human capital development, youth employment, industrialization, infrastructure, and private sector growth. Stakeholders expressed confidence that strengthened EU–Sierra Leone cooperation will accelerate the implementation of the Feed Salone initiative, create jobs, expand local industries, attract new investments, and drive sustainable economic transformation across the country.

The launch of EuroCham and the Public-Private Dialogue marks another important step toward deepening economic partnerships, enhancing investor confidence, and creating opportunities that will benefit Sierra Leoneans and international partners alike.