By Betty Milton, Information Attache, Brussels, Belgium
The Hon. Vice President of Sierra Leone Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has showcased Sierra Leone to French Investors at the first Sierra Leone investment forum in Marseille, France held on the 4th July.
The investment Forum was co-organized by the Government of Sierra Leone and the Chamber of Commerce and the Municipality of Marseille.
The Vice President made a strong statement stressing that Sierra Leone is ready for investors and investment because the government has created the enabling environment. He showcased the achievements and highlighted the numerous opportunities available in various sectors, such as energy, infrastructure, digitization, mining, transport, and tourism.
The VP spoke about the collaboration with French enterprises particularly in the area of tourism infrastructure citing the hotel Sofitel which stands as a testament. “we remain optimistic and continue to encourage French organizations to invest in Sierra Leone. We hope to inspire and encourage more French organizations to explore the opportunities in Sierra Leone and to join us in building a prosperous future” he called.
He disclosed that the investment landscape in Sierra Leone is evolving rapidly, with significant funds allocated to the energy sector, totaling around $1 billion over the next few years.
Vice President Jalloh maintained that by creating favorable conditions for foreign investors and encouraging the participation of small and medium enterprises, Sierra Leone can unlock its potential in sectors such as agri-food, which benefits from the country’s abundant rainfall. He extended the government’s appreciation to the Chamber of Commerce, Africalink, and all the companies present hoping that the French investors will make Sierra Leone their home.
Frédéric Louis, of AfricaLink in his statement said he is pleased to receive a delegation from Sierra Leone for the first time. He explained about the city of Marseille which he said plays host to lot of Africa countries since their strategy is not only limited in the chamber, but also in the territory which is to be the link between Europe and Africa.
Presentations were done by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Ibrahim Alpha Sesay, Hannah Max Kain Minister of Water Resources, Deputy Executive Director of the National Investment Board, Fatima Mahawa Sandi and Presidential Adviser on Economic and Financial Policy, Joe Dembi. Testimonies from investors in Sierra Leone including INVEST SALONE, ORANGE, PROPARCO SIERRA AKKER and SONOCO and lots of investors showed commitment and need to go to Sierra Leone.