Sunkarie Kamara, AYV News, June 10, 2026
The launch of the European Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone has been hailed as a significant milestone in strengthening economic cooperation between Sierra Leone and Europe, with European Union officials and government representatives emphasizing the country’s readiness to attract quality foreign investment.
Speaking at the launch ceremony in Freetown, the European Union Ambassador and Head of Delegation to Sierra Leone, Jacek Jankowski, described the establishment of the Chamber as a strong signal to European investors that Sierra Leone is open for business and committed to fostering a conducive investment environment.
Ambassador Jankowski noted that the Chamber represents a pivotal step in deepening economic ties between Sierra Leone and Europe, providing tangible evidence of a shared commitment to sustainable growth and prosperity. He stressed that European businesses contribute far beyond financial investment, bringing job creation opportunities, technological innovation, sustainability practices, and valuable expertise.
The Ambassador also reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development agenda, highlighting the EU’s position as one of the country’s largest and most consistent development partners.
Addressing the gathering, Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, David Moinina Sengeh, reassured foreign investors that the country remains safe, secure, and welcoming to investment. He expressed appreciation to the European Union for its longstanding partnership and urged stakeholders not to allow misinformation or unverified reports to influence perceptions of Sierra Leone.
“We should not be guided by allegations or headlines. When something is described as alleged, we must ask whether the necessary investigations have been carried out,” Dr. Sengeh stated.
He further assured European partners that the government remains committed to maintaining an enabling environment for businesses and will continue to address concerns raised by investors and development partners with seriousness and respect.
Also speaking at the event, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, described the partnership with the European Union as a strategic priority for the government. He commended business leaders from both Sierra Leone and Europe for their engagement, noting that constructive dialogue remains essential to improving the country’s business climate.
The Minister disclosed that the government has signed an agreement for the implementation of a National Single Window and Port Community System, an initiative aimed at addressing operational challenges at the country’s ports and improving trade efficiency. He expressed optimism that testing of the new system could commence within the next six months.
“When we say Sierra Leone is open for business, it is not just a slogan. We are a government that listens,” he said.
According to the Minister, the newly established Chamber will serve as an important platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration between government institutions and the private sector, helping to unlock new opportunities for investment and economic growth.
The European Chamber of Commerce is expected to play a key role in strengthening trade and investment relations between Sierra Leone and European businesses while creating opportunities for employment, innovation, and sustainable economic development across the country.
