Sierra Leone’s growing potential as an investment destination was a key focus during the official launch of the Diaspora Economic Forum (DEF), held in the halls of the UK Parliament on Wednesday, 14th May 2025.
The event, hosted by Lord John Taylor of Warwick, brought together over 60 business leaders, investors, and policymakers under one roof to spotlight Africa’s economic future and its engagement with the global diaspora.
Representing Sierra Leone at the high-profile gathering was His Excellency Dr. Morie Komba Manyeh, Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland.
In his address, Dr. Manyeh underscored Sierra Leone’s readiness for responsible and mutually beneficial investment ventures, particularly in the areas of mining, energy, agriculture, and infrastructure.
“There is no shortage of opportunities in Sierra Leone,” said the High Commissioner. “But we must stress honesty and transparency on both sides. Investors must come with genuine intentions. In return, Sierra Leone offers a welcoming environment for progressive economic development.”
The event comes at a time when Sierra Leone continues to actively position itself as a gateway for sustainable investment in West Africa. Dr. Manyeh’s remarks highlighted Sierra Leone’s strategic vision under His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio’s administration, emphasizing partnerships that drive inclusive growth.
Other speakers at the event included the Ambassador of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdi Abdillahi Hersi, who also encouraged positive exploration of new markets in Africa, and Mr. David Smith, founder of the British African Business Alliance, who reiterated that Africa must be at the core of the world’s economic evolution.
In his contribution, Lord John Taylor called for the continent to embrace innovation, especially in Artificial Intelligence (AI), to remain competitive in a rapidly shifting global economy.
The Diaspora Economic Forum (DEF), founded by the renowned Professor Pauline Long, aims to bridge the gap between Africa, its global diaspora, and the wider international business community. The main DEF event is scheduled for Africa Day on May 25, a symbolic date that continues to celebrate unity and development across the continent.
As the Forum gains momentum,
engagements like this underscores Sierra Leone’s strategic intent: to foster a transparent, future-oriented investment that uplifts its people and strengthens its ties with the global diaspora.
Abdulai Braima
Information Attache