Saudi Embassy in Freetown Marks 95th National Day, Forging a Future on Decades of Partnership.

By: Amara Kargbo

In a resonant celebration of national heritage and international fellowship, the Royal Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Freetown has on the 23 September 2025 commemorated the 95th anniversary the event which served not only as a reflection on a storied past, unified under the visionary leadership of the late King Abdulaziz Al-Saud, but also as a potent affirmation of the deepening strategic partnership with the Republic of Sierra Leone.

Held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, the gathering underscored a mutual commitment to progress, solidarity, and collaborative advancement on the world stage.

Ali Ibrahim A. Alheji, Charge d’Affaires a.i. of the Embassy, opened the occasion by outlining the historical significance of the day the unification of the Kingdom in 1932, which laid the groundwork for a nation defined by stability and prosperity. He expressed profound appreciation for the steadfast support from the government of His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, which has been instrumental in the Embassy’s successful operations since its opening in December 2023. This support, he noted, has rapidly accelerated tangible achievements across various spheres of bilateral cooperation.

The Charge d’Affaires explained the robust, five-decade-long relationship between the two nations, a partnership fortified by Sierra Leone’s active membership in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition. A cornerstone of this cooperation is the sacred responsibility of Hajj, where the Kingdom esteems it a profound honor to host pilgrims as "Guests of Allah." This year, this commitment was demonstrated through Hajj scholarships facilitating 100 Sierra Leonean pilgrims. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia is complementing Sierra Leone’s national development agendas, such as "FEED SALONE," through vital support in food security, infrastructure, and high-level political consultations.

Echoing these sentiments, the Guest of Honour, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Madam Francess Piagie Alghali, reiterated the diplomatic relations dating back to 1971. She highlighted the critical role of Saudi support, particularly in education through university scholarships, and developmental projects funded by the Saudi Fund for Development in sectors like health, agriculture, and energy.

Madam Alghali described the National Day as an inspiration, symbolizing a journey from foundational sacrifice to the contemporary era of well-being under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud.

Both nations acknowledged the imperative of multilateralism in confronting pressing global challenges. From the conflicts in Palestine to the threats of climate change and economic instability, the officials reiterated a shared resolve to address these issues through united efforts within international forums like the United Nations.

The celebration thus transcended a mere national milestone, positioning itself as a testament to a resilient partnership poised to navigate the complexities of the modern world, guided by the transformative ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 and a collective vision for a peaceful and prosperous future.