China’s transformation over the past 75 years is what some call a remarkable story, marked by resilience. As China celebrates its rise as a global player in geopolitics, it’s important to highlight the partnerships it has built with African nations like Sierra Leone. The China-Sierra Leone relationship is rooted in shared history and mutual respect. It is a relationship that has grown into a partnership that has fostered economic and development progress in the West African country.
Since the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, the world has seen the country undergo multiplicity of changes. For example, the early years saw China face significant challenges, including widespread poverty and limited infrastructure. However, with a series of bold reforms, China rose to become the world’s second-largest economy by 2010.
China’s engagement with Africa began in the 1950s and 1960s when it supported African nations during their struggles for independence. Over time, China has become Africa’s largest trading partner, with trade surpassing $200 billion annually. Chinese investments in infrastructure, mining, agriculture, and technology have greatly contributed to Africa’s development, helping close the infrastructure gap and stimulate economic growth.
China’s policy of non-interference in African domestic affairs has made it an attractive partner for many African nations. This partnership is not one-sided; Africa also provides China with vital resources to fuel its industrial growth, making the relationship mutually beneficial.
Sierra Leone’s relationship with China is an example of China’s engagement in Africa. Diplomatic ties between the two countries were established in 1971, and since then, China has made significant investments in Sierra Leone’s infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
One of the earliest and most impactful contributions was the construction of the National Stadium in Freetown, which remains a symbol of the enduring friendship between the two nations. In addition to infrastructure, China provided crucial support to Sierra Leone during the 2014 Ebola outbreak, sending medical supplies, personnel, and infrastructure to help combat the epidemic.
Education is another area where the China-Sierra Leone partnership has flourished. China has granted numerous scholarships to Sierra Leonean students, allowing them to study in China and gain skills that contribute to their country’s development upon their return. These exchanges also foster cultural ties and mutual understanding.
Trade between the two nations continues to grow, with Chinese companies investing in sectors like mining, agriculture, and fisheries. These investments have contributed to Sierra Leone’s economic growth.
Looking ahead, the focus of China-Sierra Leone relations is likely to shift towards innovation, technology, and green development. China is expected to share its expertise in renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and sustainable agriculture with its African partners, helping them build more resilient and self-sufficient economies.
We hope China’s commitment to building local capacity through education and vocational training will also remain crucial. We also hope that by empowering African nations to take control of their own development, China is not only promoting sustainable growth but also reducing dependence on foreign aid.
Ms. Josephine Kamara is the Director General of Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation
