Both countries are looking to further develop cooperative relations between the armed forces of the two countries.

Present during the signing ceremony, were senior officers of the National Defence of China and Sierra Leone’s Defence Attache to the People’s Repubic of China, Colonel Sajoh Mohamed Daramy.

It is not clear what items of military hardware will be supplied by China to Sierra Leone, as the country looks to rebuild its military capacity and capability.

But critics are frowning on this military deal with China, which they say Sierra Leone does not need, as the country faces severe economic difficulties.

The government of Sierra Leone is struggling to raise revenue to support its flagship – Free Quality Education Programme for primary and secondary schools, as well as maintain the country’s failing healthcare sector.