“Since I have been here, I have received tremendous proposals from Sierra Leoneans who want to go back home and participate in developing the country’s economy. We will tap into their expertise and align them with the objectives of the New Direction,” said Wai.

On the Diplomatic front, Ambassador Wai said he is engaging the State Department on the Power Africa Project, an initiative of President Trump’s administration to boost trade and investment in the Africa continent. 

“I am engaging extensively to tap into the American investment market of credible private companies, individuals and also looking forward to tap into the Sixty Billion United States Dollars infrastructure development fund set aside by the United States Government,” said Wai, adding that he will be searching for investment opportunities and seeking the interest of Sierra Leone across the countries he is accredited to serve as Ambassador.

In September 2017 the United States Government suspended B1/B2 visas to Sierra Leone Ministry of Foreign Officials and Immigration Officials. The United States Embassy in Freetown in a press release stated that the decision was taken when a country denies or unreasonably delays accepting one of its nationals.

To this, Ambassador Wai said he is actively in consultation with the State Department as lifting of the suspension is top of his priority with a possible meeting with the Homeland Security for a review of the decision.

“We are a peaceful nation; we don’t want our country to be affected by this decision. We want to work with the United States Government to address it and I will continue to engage and engage,” he assured.

In his address at the State Opening of Parliament, President Julius Maada Bio said his government has placed premium on development and economic diplomacy. He reported that Missions were now organizing private investment dialogue sessions to attract potential investors.