Sierra Leone marks 64th National Day, praises ‘fruitful’ Kuwait ties
Ambassador H.E. Haja Ishata Thomas encouraged Kuwaiti investors to explore the promising opportunities in Sierra Leone, citing extensive economic reforms that have positioned the country as an attractive destination in West Africa.
• H.E. Haja Ishata Thomas, the ambassador of Sierra Leone, announced the allocation of a plot of land in Freetown for the construction of a new Kuwaiti embassy—reflecting both countries’ commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations.
The Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone in Kuwait marked the country’s 64th National Day with a celebration led by Ambassador H.E. Haja Ishata Thomas. Highlighting over three decades of bilateral and multilateral cooperation, the ambassador described Sierra Leone–Kuwait relations as “strong, stable, and fruitful.”
She praised Kuwait’s support during critical times—such as the 2014 Ebola outbreak and the 2017 landslide disaster—particularly through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, which has also financed key infrastructure projects including water systems, hospitals, and roads.
The ambassador announced the allocation of a plot of land in the capital, Freetown, for the construction of a new Kuwaiti embassy—reflecting both countries’ commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties.
On the investment front, Ambassador Thomas encouraged Kuwaiti investors to explore the promising opportunities in Sierra Leone, citing extensive economic reforms that have positioned the country as an attractive destination in West Africa. She emphasized that the Sierra Leonean government offers significant incentives, including tax exemptions, streamlined administrative procedures, and support for the repatriation of profits.
Turning to tourism, the ambassador highlighted Sierra Leone’s rich natural and cultural heritage, including its golden beaches, rainforests, and historic sites such as Bunce Island. She invited Kuwaiti citizens and residents to visit Sierra Leone, noting that visas are available on arrival or through the Sierra Leone Embassy in Kuwait.
In conclusion, the ambassador called on the international community to move beyond outdated stereotypes, stressing that Sierra Leone is now a “peaceful, progressive, and opportunity-filled nation”—open to the world and committed to a brighter future for its people.
Kuwait and Sierra Leone ties date back to 1980
Nayef Hamad Al-Mudhaf, Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister for African Affairs, Minister Plenipotentiary, highlighted the longstanding ties between Kuwait and Sierra Leone, which date back to 1980. Speaking on the sidelines of Sierra Leone’s National Day celebration in Kuwait, Al-Mudhaf noted that relations have grown steadily over the past 45 years, especially following the opening of Sierra Leone’s embassy in Kuwait in 2009.
He said the two nations have signed seven key agreements covering economic and trade cooperation, political consultations, the establishment of a joint committee, air services, and educational collaboration. He added that more agreements are currently under discussion and are expected to be finalized soon.
Al-Mudhaf also praised the role of the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development in supporting Sierra Leone’s progress. So far, the fund has provided eleven loans worth around KD 83 million for critical projects in infrastructure, water treatment, and other sectors. He affirmed Kuwait’s continued support for Sierra Leone’s development efforts, reinforcing the strong and evolving partnership between the two countries.
Domestic and civil labor pacts between Kuwait and Sierra Leone under review
Regarding labor, Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister Nayef Hamad Al-Mudhaf stated that domestic and civil labor agreements are currently under review by the Public Authority for Manpower. He added that Kuwait will soon submit a draft agreement to the Sierra Leonean side for review and mutual agreement, with the aim of signing it at the earliest opportunity.
He noted that Kuwait has already signed a similar agreement with Ethiopia and is in talks with Kenya and other African countries, in line with the state’s policy of diversifying sources of domestic and skilled labor. “We have even begun bringing in skilled workers from African countries in recent years, and they are proving their worth in Kuwait,” he said.
Asked about standardizing recruitment costs, Al-Mudhafexplained: “Prices vary from one country to another, as some have their own laws. However, we have a unified agreement template that applies to all, and recruitment costs are nearly identical. Kuwait also adheres to international labor agreements.”
He concluded: “We welcome any country willing to sign such agreements and are open to reviewing all proposals.”
