By Sallieu S. Kanu
TOKEH BEACH — The High Commission of India in Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic relations with the West African nation, following the successful hosting of the India–Sierra Leone Trade and Investment Promotion Seminar on Saturday, 23rd August 2025, at The Place Resort.
The high-level event convened key stakeholders including representatives from Sierra Leone’s National Investment Board, Special Envoys of the President, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), business leaders, and trade organizations. The seminar aimed to identify new avenues for trade and investment between the two countries.
India’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, Baisnab Charan Pradhan, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing India’s emergence as a global economic powerhouse. He noted that India, currently the world’s fourth-largest economy at $4.19 trillion, is projected to become the third-largest within two years. Pradhan highlighted India’s stable growth, low inflation rate of 2.8 percent, and robust foreign direct investment inflows as indicators of a favorable investment climate.
“India’s population of 1.4 billion offers a vast consumer base, and our economic reforms have created a conducive environment for business,” Pradhan stated. He pointed to the Goods and Services Tax and the bankruptcy code as transformative policies that have enhanced investor confidence.
India–Africa trade has reached nearly $100 billion, with Indian investments on the continent estimated between $40–50 billion. Trade with Sierra Leone has grown significantly, rising by over 150 percent in seven years—from $117 million to $408 million. Pradhan encouraged Sierra Leone to tap into India’s $250 billion import basket, particularly in sectors such as edible oils, ethanol, and renewable energy.
He also invited Sierra Leone to join global platforms like the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuel Alliance, which offer access to financing, technology, and expertise.
Representing Sierra Leone, Mohamed A. Sesay, Director of the National Investment Board, acknowledged India’s longstanding partnership but noted the need to address trade imbalances. He proposed increased collaboration in light manufacturing, energy expansion, and value addition in the extractive sector. Sesay also highlighted opportunities in fisheries, water management, tourism, and health infrastructure.
“Sierra Leone offers prospects across every sector—from renewable energy to plastic waste management and ecotourism,” Sesay said, adding that the government is reviewing incentives to attract more foreign investment.
Peter Mannah, the President’s Special Envoy for Healthcare, called for greater Indian involvement in Sierra Leone’s health sector. He advocated for investments in hospitals, pharmaceutical production, and medical education, noting that such initiatives could reduce reliance on overseas medical treatment. “We are ready to offer incentives, including free land for pharmaceutical factories,” Mannah disclosed.
Giina Lavaly, Country Officer for the IFC, outlined the organization’s efforts to support private sector growth in Sierra Leone. She cited ongoing investments in agribusiness, cement production, solar energy, and financial services, with a pipeline of over $80 million in projects. Lavaly emphasized that Sierra Leone remains open for business, particularly in agriculture, energy, and manufacturing.
The seminar concluded with a shared commitment to deepening bilateral ties through continued dialogue, private sector engagement, and government support. Both nations expressed optimism that stronger partnerships would drive job creation, industrialization, and improved service delivery.