By Emma Black

The Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone has extended a generous donation of state-of-the-art media equipment to the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), marking a continued commitment to support the force’s modernization and communication capabilities.

24 July 2025, the donation comprising high-end cameras, computers, and related accessories was officially handed over during a courtesy visit to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. William Fayia Sellu, by a Chinese Embassy delegation led by Minister Counsellor Mr. Zhang Diabin.

Speaking during the presentation, Mr. Zhang emphasized that the donation is part of China’s broader pledge to enhance institutional capacity and digital transformation efforts within the SLP, particularly in the area of public relations and information dissemination.

The computers and accompanying gadgets will greatly improve the efficiency and productivity of your media and public relations department, Mr. Zhang stated. We are also finalizing plans to train 20 Sierra Leonean police personnel at one of our top training institutions in China.

In response, IGP Sellu expressed profound appreciation to the Chinese government for its sustained partnership. He fondly recalled his participation in a similar training initiative in China back in 2013, which he described as both impactful and transformative.

Highlighting the SLP’s ongoing efforts to improve security and public engagement, IGP Sellu informed the delegation about recent technological interventions, including the installation of CCTV surveillance systems in Freetown and Bo. He confirmed that similar installations are in the pipeline for Makeni, Kenema, and Port Loko.

These initiatives fall under the government’s broader ‘Safe Salone’ programme and are aligned with President Julius Maada Bio’s ‘Big Five Game Changers’ agenda for national development and digital governance, he explained.

The meeting concluded with the Chinese delegation extending a formal invitation to IGP Sellu to attend China’s upcoming National Day celebration later this year.

This latest donation highlights China’s growing role in supporting institutional development and strengthening diplomatic relations with Sierra Leone. For the SLP, the upgraded media tools are expected to significantly enhance its public engagement and crime communication strategies.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday,28th July, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)