Sierra Leone & China Pioneering Africa’s Path to Global Influence and Sustainable Development.

During the opening session of the 3rd Africa High-Level Forum on South-South and Triangular Cooperation for Sustainable Development, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation articulated Africa’s vital role in shaping global governance, emphasizing the imperative of fair representation within the United Nations Security Council.

Deputy Director General Policy, Tamba E. Juana, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation passionately conveyed Sierra Leone’s proactive leadership, highlighting its persistent advocacy for Africa’s inclusion in Security Council reforms a pursuit championed over two decades amid regional hurdles.

Drawing from a decade of peacekeeping expertise, Sierra Leone’s commitment to peace, climate resilience, youth empowerment, and development underscores Africa’s resilience and strategic agency in global decision-making.

Juana poignantly reflected on the dire realities faced by many Africans driven by poverty and disillusionment to stress the urgent need for inward transformation. He called for African nations to emulate the historic sacrifices of nations like China and Japan, added that self-reliance and strategic perseverance are essential for turning collective aspirations into sustainable progress.

The Deputy Director General made points categorically clear that, if Africa transforms into an attractive and prosperous continent, its youth will no longer feel compelled to abandon their homeland; instead, they will stay, "work tirelessly, and contribute to its growth."

The Deputy revealed his own experience in Tripoli a poignant truth, that "many Africans contemplate perilous cross Mediterranean journeys driven by desperation and disillusionment, they see poverty, disease, and inequality as relentless adversaries, and view migration as a final, tragic option akin to a modern form of forced escape, reminiscent of slavery’s brutal history."

He stated that, listening to leaders on the opening session the South-South and Triangular Cooperation for Sustainable Development, such as the President, Ghana Foreign Minister inspires hope that their words can be translated into concrete actions measures that reignite African resilience and confidence.

He stated that, "Africa’s future is promising, it remains a continent brimming with potential, and with deliberate efforts, we can turn this hope into tangible progress, ensuring our youth’s talents and energies are harnessed for sustainable development rather than driven by despair."

He said, in addressing the hopes of Africa’s youth, it is evident from various speeches of speakers that "we must shift our mindset away from dependency and external reliance, especially along national borders, which often hinder rather than help our progress."

Yet, Africa needs to embrace inward reflection, strategic self-determination, and relentless effort much like China’s historic sacrifices that propelled it to global prominence, or Japan’s pioneering healthcare system born from visionary reform. He reiterated that "relying solely on external borders or influences will only perpetuate disadvantage instead, Africa must forge its own path through diligent work and unwavering commitment."

"Our future depends on creating our own agenda mobilizing internal strengths and resilience to turn aspiration into tangible development and self-reliance."

Meanwhile, China’s Ambassador Wang Qing reaffirmed China’s deepening engagement with Africa, rooted in principles of mutual respect, non-interference, and shared prosperity. Spotlighting China’s substantial investments spanning infrastructure, health, and emergency aid he showcased how China continues to foster a model of equitable partnership exemplified by projects during the Ebola crisis and health initiatives with UNICEF and UNFPA.

Stressing Africa’s enormous potential, the ambassador asserted China’s commitment to a peaceful, inclusive, and independent international order, advocating for enhanced cooperation among developing nations to achieve shared goals of progress, justice, and stability. Together, Sierra Leone and China exemplify a strategic alliance dedicated to forging a resilient, prosperous Africa poised to make its mark on the global stage.

The Chinese Ambassador reaffirmed China’s unwavering commitment to addressing historical injustices faced by Africa, emphasizing that China-Africa cooperation exemplifies a model of successful South-South partnership rooted in shared history, goals, and mutual development.

Correspondent-Amara Kargbo

Email: kargboamara079@gmail.com

Tel:+232 73111507