By Chidi Ekeh and Jassim Al-Awadhi

KUWAIT: The Embassy of Sierra Leone in Kuwait celebrated the country’s 64th Independence Anniversary on Monday, reaffirming the enduring strength of Kuwait-Sierra Leone relations and showcasing the West African nation’s investment and tourism potential.

Speaking at the event, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Kuwait, Haja Ishata Thomas, underscored the growing ties between the two countries, while also drawing attention to Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage and emerging economic opportunities. She noted that the anniversary served as a reminder of the country’s progress since gaining independence from British colonial rule on April 27, 1961.

The ceremony drew a wide array of dignitaries, including Nayef Mohammed Al-Mudhaf, Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister for African Affairs, ambassadors, diplomats, and senior government officials, who gathered to commemorate the occasion.

Ambassador Haja Ishata Thomas and Nayef Mohammed Al-Mudhaf, Kuwait's Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister for African Affairs, are seen in this photo.

Sierra Leonian performers showcase a cultural dance at the event.

Decades of diplomatic ties

Ambassador Thomas lauded more than 30 years of cooperation between Kuwait and Sierra Leone. “Our two nations have stood together on major international platforms, including the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation,” she said. She also noted the deployment of a Sierra Leonean military contingent to aid Kuwait during the Iraqi invasion in 1991. Ambassador Thomas further announced that land has been allocated in Freetown for the construction of a Kuwaiti Embassy, signaling deepening diplomatic engagement.

She expressed gratitude for Kuwait’s assistance over the years, particularly through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development. “Kuwait stood with us during our darkest times — from the civil war to the Ebola outbreak and the 2017 mudslide disaster,” she stated.

The Kuwait Fund has played a pivotal role in funding major infrastructure projects in Sierra Leone, including rural water supply systems, the construction of three modern hospitals in Freetown, and key road networks. The ambassador emphasized the need to cease all conflicts around the world, including the Gaza war, the Ukraine war, in addition to instability in the Democratic Republic of Congo. She called for long-lasting peace, recalling her country’s struggle during civil war. “Our 11-year civil war is a reminder of the horrors of war and that nations, irrespective of their differences, must strive for peace,” she said.

An investment hub

Ambassador Thomas underscored Sierra Leone’s emergence as a promising investment hub in West Africa, noting extensive economic reforms aimed at fostering a secure and investor-friendly environment. “We have established a robust legal and regulatory framework to attract foreign direct investment,” she said, identifying agriculture, energy, mining, infrastructure, tourism, transport, and manufacturing as priority sectors.

She encouraged Kuwaiti investors to explore these opportunities, emphasizing the country’s abundant natural resources and strategic location along key West African trade corridors. Investor incentives include tax holidays, duty-free importation, profit repatriation, and streamlined administrative procedures.

Tourism appeal

Turning to tourism, the ambassador showcased Sierra Leone’s growing reputation as an ecotourism and cultural destination. “From golden beaches and lush rainforests to historic sites, Sierra Leone is one of West Africa’s most captivating countries,” she said. She cited popular attractions such as the Freetown Peninsula’s unspoiled coastline, the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the Lion Mountains, and Bunce Island — a poignant site linked to the transatlantic slave trade. “Sierra Leone is more than its landscapes,” she added. “It is a peaceful, welcoming nation with a vibrant cultural identity.” She invited Kuwaitis and expatriates to experience the country firsthand, noting that visas are available on arrival or via the embassy in Kuwait.

Honoring a complex history

Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s historical journey, Ambassador Thomas highlighted the nation’s ethnic diversity and ancient heritage, mentioning indigenous groups such as the Limba, Mende, Temne, Sherbro, and Yalunka. She also paid tribute to the freed slaves who helped establish Freetown, the capital city. “We carry a legacy of resilience and unity,” she said. “Our history, though complex, is a testament to the strength and spirit of the Sierra Leonean people.”

Ambassador Thomas urged the international community and media to help reframe global perceptions of Sierra Leone. “We appeal to our partners to share the real story of Sierra Leone — a peaceful, progressive, and opportunity-filled nation,” she said. “It is time to move beyond outdated narratives and embrace a future full of promise.”