By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The High Commission of India in Sierra Leone commemorated the 76th Republic Day of India with a vibrant series of events on Sunday, January 26, 2025. The celebration included a Flag Unfurling Ceremony at the Chancery premises in the morning and a Reception at Mamba Point, Lagoonda, Aberdeen, Freetown, in the evening.

At the Reception, the Indian High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, H.E. Baisnab Charan Pradhan, reaffirmed India’s commitment to fostering education and capacity-building in Sierra Leone. He highlighted India’s ongoing support through programs such as the ITEC & ICCR scholarships, the Pan-African Tele-Education/e-VidyaBharati initiative and the establishment of a Learning Center at Fourah Bay College.

High Commissioner Baisnab Charan Pradhan underscored the strong partnership between India and Sierra Leone, which is built on mutual respect and shared goals. He revealed that over 300 Sierra Leonean Government officials have benefited from ITEC programs and around 100 students have pursued higher education in India through ICCR scholarships.

He stated, “Our development cooperation with Sierra Leone, through Lines of Credit, aggregates to $250 million, with $100 million worth of projects already completed.” These projects include various infrastructure initiatives, such as the ongoing construction of the University of Science and Technology in Koidu, irrigation development in Tomabum and the expansion of potable water facilities in key communities, he further revealed.

Additionally, High Commissioner Baisnab Charan Pradhan announced India’s recent grant of $990,000 under the India-UN Development Fund for the project, “Enabling Economic Independence for Specifically Abled Persons in Sierra Leone (Persons with Disabilities).” He also praised the Indian diaspora in Sierra Leone for their contributions to trade, manufacturing, healthcare and education, which have significantly bolstered the nation’s socio-economic fabric.

The High Commissioner noted that India and Sierra Leone share common challenges, such as achieving sustainable development and addressing climate change. He expressed India’s readiness to collaborate with Sierra Leone to turn these challenges into opportunities by leveraging technological advancements and experience.

The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Madam Francess Alghali, extended her gratitude to India and the Indian community for their unwavering support to Sierra Leone. She recalled India’s pivotal role in ending Sierra Leone’s civil war through its substantial contribution to the UN peacekeeping force (UNAMSIL), including the leadership of General Vijay Kumar Jetly.

She noted India’s sustained support for Sierra Leone’s development priorities, particularly in healthcare, information technology and education. India’s assistance has also extended to trade, with Sierra Leone benefiting from imports of pharmaceuticals, plastics, rice, vehicles and industrial machinery, she furthered.

“The Republic of India has been a steadfast and reliable partner for Sierra Leone,” Madam Francess Alghali stated, reaffirming the robust ties between the two nations.

Earlier in the day, High Commissioner Pradhan ceremoniously unfurled the Indian National Flag at the Chancery premises, followed by the reading of the President of India’s address. The speech emphasized India’s progress and vision for the future.

The evening celebration featured cultural performances by members of the Indian diaspora, including children, showcasing India’s rich diversity. The Brahmakumari Sisters delivered a special address on peace and harmony, adding a spiritual dimension to the event.

Certificates of Achievement were awarded to the top 50 participants from Sierra Leone in the 5th Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz, recognizing their enthusiasm for India’s heritage.

The event concluded with over 170 attendees, including members of the Indian community and friends of India, celebrating the day with unity and collaboration. The festivities highlighted the enduring partnership and shared growth between India and Sierra Leone.