By Hassan Osman Kargbo
From March 12 to 13, 2025, Ambassador Wang Qing of China visited Kenema- Eastern Province of Sierra Leone, at the invitation of Sierra Leone’s Foreign Minister, Timothy Musa Kabba.
The significant diplomatic visit included attending the launching ceremony of a land rehabilitation project in Tongo Fields, a tour of local communities and schools, and being honoured with the title of Honorary Paramount Chief at Lower Bambara Chiefdom.
Ambassador Wang’s visit further deepened the longstanding friendship between China and Sierra Leone, reinforcing the collaborative efforts to improve social welfare and economic development in the country.
The highlight of Ambassador Wang’s visit was the launching ceremony of the land rehabilitation project in Tongo Fields, a key initiative aimed at improving the local environment and benefiting the surrounding communities.
At the ceremony, Ambassador Wang emphasized China’s long-standing support for Sierra Leone’s economic and social development. “China has always provided assistance within its capacity to support Sierra Leone’s growth, including numerous ‘smart but beautiful’ projects that focus on enhancing the livelihoods of local communities,” Ambassador Wang stated.
The land rehabilitation project, funded by the Chinese Embassy, is expected to have a lasting impact on the ecological environment of the region, improve agricultural productivity, and enhance the overall quality of life for the people of Tongo Fields.
The project is in line with the important consensus reached by the heads of state of both nations, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development and poverty alleviation.
Ambassador Wang also highlighted that China would continue to strengthen its cooperation with Sierra Leone, particularly in the area of poverty alleviation, sharing experience and expertise to help the country better achieve its development goals.
“The land rehabilitation project is a testament to the strong and enduring friendship between our two countries. It is designed to contribute to the welfare of the local people and create lasting positive change,” Ambassador Wang added. The project aims to restore and enhance degraded land, provide sustainable farming opportunities, and improve the ecological balance, which is crucial for local communities who depend on agriculture as a primary source of income.
In recognition of Ambassador Wang’s significant contributions to the Sino-Sierra Leonean relationship, the Lower Bambara Chiefdom awarded him the title of Honorary Paramount Chief. The ceremony was a reflection of the deep respect and affection between the people of Sierra Leone and China, with Ambassador Wang expressing his gratitude for the honor.
“This title represents the longstanding traditional friendship between China and Sierra Leone,” Ambassador Wang said. “The people of China and Sierra Leone have always shared mutual respect and admiration. We are truly good friends, brothers, and partners.”
He emphasized that the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone would continue to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with all regions and chiefdoms, focusing on improving the well-being of the people, promoting people-to-people exchanges, and reinforcing the social foundation of the bilateral relationship.
Minister Timothy Musa Kabba also spoke at the event, praising the fruitful outcomes of China-Sierra Leone cooperation and underscoring the importance of the land rehabilitation project in Tongo Fields. “China has been a true friend to Sierra Leone, and this land rehabilitation project is a perfect example of the practical benefits of our cooperation,” Minister Kabba said.
He noted that the project would not only enhance the local ecological environment but also accelerate economic transformation and raise living standards in the region, adding that the successful implementation of such projects reflects the mutual respect and shared vision for progress between the two nations.
Minister Kabba further emphasized that Sierra Leone is committed to deepening its ties with China, particularly by drawing on China’s vast experience in governance and development. “Sierra Leone is guided by the important consensus reached by our heads of state, and we will continue to strengthen our cooperation in various fields, ensuring that the friendly and cooperative relations between Sierra Leone and China benefit our people,” he said.
During the visit, Ambassador Wang also toured several schools and communities in the Eastern Province, where he engaged local residents and leaders. The warm reception he received was a testament to the strong bond between the Chinese people and Sierra Leoneans, with many expressing appreciations for China’s ongoing support in various sectors, including infrastructure, education, and health.
Ambassador Wang’s visit underscored China’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development, particularly in improving the lives of rural communities. Through initiatives like the land rehabilitation project, China is playing a pivotal role in helping Sierra Leone address environmental challenges, boost agricultural productivity, and improve the livelihoods of its citizens.
As both nations look to the future, the strengthening of this bilateral relationship promises to bring further benefits and opportunities for the people of Sierra Leone.
