By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, Tuesday June 9, 2026: Sierra Leone has taken a major step toward strengthening economic cooperation with Europe as Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, representing President Julius Maada Bio, launched the European Chamber of Commerce (EuroCham) alongside the 3rd Sierra Leone–EU Public-Private Dialogue at the Country Lodge in Freetown.
Dr. Sengeh reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to positioning Sierra Leone as a premier destination for investment and business growth, stressing that the partnership with the European Union (EU) is already delivering tangible results across key sectors. He cited Brussels Airlines’ continued operations and the establishment of modern technical and vocational training facilities as evidence of growing investor confidence.
“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,” Dr. Sengeh declared, highlighting ongoing successes in agriculture, value addition, and industrial growth.
The Chief Minister pointed to Sierra Leonean coffee and chocolate products entering European markets, as well as investments by Sonoco and Sierra Leone Flour Mill, as examples of how EU collaboration is boosting local industries. He assured investors that reforms and energy investments will significantly improve power supply and industrial productivity by 2027.
EU Ambassador Jacek Jankowski hailed the launch of EuroCham as a “strong signal that Sierra Leone is open and ready for business,” underscoring the EU’s commitment to private sector development and economic transformation.
Minister of Trade and Industry Alpha Ibrahim Sesay described the occasion as a landmark moment in strengthening collaboration between government, the EU, and the private sector.
The establishment of EuroCham is expected to provide a structured platform for European businesses operating in Sierra Leone, fostering innovation, trade partnerships, and investment aligned with President Bio’s Big Five Game Changers agenda. Stakeholders expressed confidence that enhanced EU–Sierra Leone cooperation will accelerate the Feed Salone initiative, create jobs, expand industries, and drive sustainable economic transformation.