Special Envoy Duwai-Sowa recently met with the Minister of Trade and Investment, Mr. Ibrahim Alpha Sesay to discuss the strategic priorities of the Ministry and ways that she can support the Minister’s mandate, goals and priorities.
During the meeting, Minister Sesay provided an overview of the current priorities of the Ministry, emphasizing the need for partnership and support in areas including lucrative trade and investment partnerships, training, capacity-building, policy development, project management, planning and logistics.
In her remarks, Special Envoy Duwai-Sowa stated that Canada could serve as a valuable trade and investment partner and has tremendous opportunities that would be explored during her tenure. In addition, some investors have expressed interest in opportunities in Sierra Leone related to agriculture, real estate development, import and export of essential commodities.
Prospective institutions and partners including McMaster University and Mohawk College have also been identified to support the government with training and professional development opportunities. The Office of the SEIRTI will also be facilitating a delegate visit to Canada, which will include the Minister and other key government officials. Discussions will continue to further explore the proposed partnerships and initiatives.
Permanent Secretary Mr. Alhassan Kondeh gave a guided tour of the Ministry which provided a glimpse into the dire need for logistics and office supplies. This is an area of critical need due to overcrowding of limited workspaces and equipment to carry out the daily tasks of the Ministry, which the Office of the SEIRTI will prioritize immediately. The Special Envoy was also introduced to some of the interns currently working at the Ministry, who were eager to work and showed the incredible potential of Sierra Leonean youth and future workforce.
