The Sierra Leone Embassy in Rabat, Morocco, on Sunday, 27th April 2025, held a special prayer service for the nation at the Embassy’s residence to mark the country’s 64th Independence Anniversary.
In response to His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s call for Sierra Leoneans to offer special prayers across the nation to deepen national consciousness and cohesion, the Embassy extended invitations to all Sierra Leoneans in Morocco, including students and diplomats, to join the occasion.
In his remarks, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco, H.E. Alhaji Momodu Koroma said, Independence Day is a cause for celebration, noting that Sierra Leone has come a long way over the past 64 years. He highlighted the country’s tremendous progress, particularly under the leadership of President Bio.
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s journey, Ambassador Koroma shared that at the time of Independence in 1961, there were no roads leading to Kono and the north, and only one secondary school existed in Kono District. He emphasized the significant improvements today, including better road infrastructure and the presence of secondary schools in every district. He further noted the achievements of the current government, such as the introduction of Free Quality Education, the drastic reduction in maternal mortality rates, and the establishment of seven universities, compared to just one university that existed at Independence.
Ambassador Koroma reiterated President Bio’s call to reflect and pray, reminding attendees that Sierra Leone’s 64-year journey has not been without challenges—including two decades of one-party rule, an 11-year brutal civil war, and devastating health crises like the Ebola and COVID-19 pandemics. He emphasized the need to reject violence and work towards sustaining peace.
Highlighting Sierra Leone’s growing international stature, Ambassador Koroma noted that the country now serves as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, a member of the African Union’s Peace and Security Council, and the Chair of the Committee of 10 advocating for UN reforms on behalf of Africa. Despite global economic challenges, he commended President Bio’s administration for its strides towards economic stability and stressed the importance of unity, peace, and national consciousness among Sierra Leoneans both at home and abroad.
“Independence may not have deep meaning for some, given the persistence of poverty, but the steps we are taking are crucial to building a better future,” Ambassador Koroma said.
He reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s strong bilateral relations with Morocco, acknowledging Morocco’s continued support in various areas, and emphasized the Embassy’s commitment to working in the best interests of Sierra Leone.
Special prayers were offered for Sierra Leone, with Sheikh Abdul Ghani conducting a Quranic reading and prayers for the Muslim community, and Pastor Ansumana Ayub leading Christian prayers.
In his closing remarks, the Head of Chancery, Mr. James Sylvanus Lebbie thanked the Sierra Leonean community, students, and all guests for honoring the Embassy’s invitation. He encouraged them to reflect on the nation journey and maintain good behavior, stressing the vital role of peace and prayers in national development.
Ambassador Koroma also used the occasion to officially meet with members of the Sierra Leonean community and students in Morocco, personally welcoming each attendee and assuring them that the Embassy remains open to address their concerns and support them during their stay in Morocco.
Source: Aminaash Nyande Brima
Information Attaché
Sierra Leone Embassy
Rabat, Morocco
