The Russian Ministry of Transport announced on October 30 that it is ready to participate in the development of port infrastructure in Sierra Leone. This was revealed after a meeting between Russian Deputy Minister Dmitry Zverev and Sierra Leone's Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay, on the sidelines of the third Russia-Africa summit in Moscow.
The meeting identified maritime navigation as a key area for cooperation, with both parties seeing potential for increased and diversified cargo flow. Russian companies have experience in constructing and modernizing ports, including quays, breakwaters, and coastal protection structures. They are willing to participate in the design of transport facilities, subject to financing.
Russia has proposed a comprehensive approach to developing Sierra Leone's transport system, including diagnostics of infrastructure and freight base, identification of priority transport corridors, and preparation of feasibility studies. The Russian side also suggested developing ports, airports, roads, and multimodal nodes.
In addition to infrastructure development, the parties discussed the application of Russian digital solutions in aviation and training of transport specialists. Sierra Leonean educational institutions were invited to join the Russia-Africa Transport University. Turay was also invited to participate in the St. Petersburg International Transport and Logistics Forum in spring 2027.
The third Russia-Africa summit, held in Moscow on October 28-29, aimed to revitalize cooperation between Russia and African countries. The summit brought together delegations from 48 African states, focusing on economic ties, technological cooperation, and security. Russia seeks to expand its interaction with African partners in trade, infrastructure, and industrial projects.
This development is part of a broader engagement between Russia and African countries. Earlier in October, Sierra Leone's Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Mattai, expressed interest in cooperating with Russia in the mining sector. The Russia-Africa summit is seen as a crucial event for strengthening ties between Russia and the continent.
The cooperation between Russia and Sierra Leone on port infrastructure development is expected to enhance the country's transportation capabilities and boost economic growth. The two countries will continue to explore opportunities for collaboration in various sectors, including transport, mining, and education.
Key points
- Russia is willing to participate in the construction and modernization of port infrastructure in Sierra Leone.
- The two countries have identified maritime navigation as a key area for cooperation.
- Russia has proposed a comprehensive approach to developing Sierra Leone's transport system.
