Sierra Leone’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, has moved quickly to position diplomacy as a tool for economic transformation, using his first major international engagement to advance discussions on investment, energy security, agriculture and food production.
Representing President Dr Julius Maada Bio at the Extraordinary Conference of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Minister Swaray held strategic discussions with officials from Saudi Arabia and Nigeria aimed at expanding partnerships that could support Sierra Leone’s development priorities.
The engagements form part of the Government’s growing emphasis on development-focused diplomacy, where foreign relations are increasingly linked to investment mobilisation, job creation and national economic growth.
At the OIC meeting, Minister Swaray highlighted Sierra Leone’s progress as a peaceful and democratic nation committed to international cooperation, sustainable development and strengthening partnerships with global allies.
He noted that the country’s journey from conflict to democratic stability has created a foundation for deeper engagement with investors and development partners seeking reliable opportunities in Africa.
Beyond diplomatic discussions, the Foreign Minister explored areas where stronger partnerships could deliver practical benefits for Sierra Leoneans.
During talks with Saudi representatives, discussions centred on investment opportunities in energy, agriculture and infrastructure. The engagement comes as Sierra Leone continues efforts to address electricity challenges and create the conditions needed for industrial expansion and private-sector growth.
Energy cooperation was identified as a key area of interest, with reliable electricity supply considered critical to boosting businesses, supporting industries and creating employment opportunities.
The discussions also highlighted Sierra Leone’s agricultural potential and opportunities for increased investment in food production and infrastructure development.
In a separate engagement with Nigerian officials, Minister Swaray focused on strengthening existing bilateral ties between the two West African countries, particularly in agriculture, food security, energy and infrastructure.
Nigeria’s experience in large-scale agricultural production and energy development was identified as an area where knowledge-sharing and cooperation could support Sierra Leone’s efforts to increase domestic production and reduce dependence on food imports.
The Foreign Minister described the meetings as an important step towards building stronger partnerships that translate diplomatic conversations into tangible development outcomes.
He said Sierra Leone would continue using international platforms to attract investments, expand cooperation and create opportunities that directly improve the lives of citizens.
The Jeddah mission marks an early indication of Minister Swaray’s approach to foreign policy — one that seeks to transform diplomacy from traditional representation into a strategic instrument for economic advancement.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to continue follow-up engagements with relevant partners to develop specific programmes and agreements arising from the discussions.