Sierra Leone showcased its tech-driven aspirations at the Digital City World Congress & China Public and Security Expo in Shenzhen, China, from October 27-30, 2025. Spearheading the charge was a high-level delegation, led by Deputy Ambassador to China, Mr. Saffa-woya Rogers, who made a compelling case for investment and collaboration.
The delegation, which included the Defence Attaché, Colonel Richard Sahid Conteh, marking a significant moment for Sierra Leone. Mr. Rogers stepped in for Ambassador Abu Bakarr Karim, who was occupied with official duties back in Freetown, a move that underscored the Embassy’s dedication to the nation’s development objectives.
During the opening gala, Deputy Ambassador Rogers addressed a distinguished crowd of global innovators, investors, and policymakers. He unveiled a vision for leveraging technology to propel Sierra Leone forward, shifting the focus from mere technological advancements to real-world applications that could improve lives.
“This Congress goes beyond a showcase of new technology; it’s a blueprint for future progress,” Mr. Rogers stated. “As we witness this technological revolution, a crucial question emerges: How do we ensure every nation benefit from it?”
The Deputy Ambassador positioned Sierra Leone as a key player in this endeavor. He discussed the country’s ambitious renewal journey under President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, which prioritizes good governance, economic diversification, and sustainable development. Acknowledging the country’s existing challenges, particularly in healthcare, agriculture, and security, he also emphasized the nation’s vibrant energy and strategic location.
“The technology on display is not a luxury for Sierra Leone; it is essential,” he explained, detailing a practical vision for technological applications, including:
Utilizing drones to deliver essential medical supplies to remote villages, with the potential to save lives.
Deploying UAVs to monitor coastlines for fisheries protection and prevent illegal activities.
Employing sensors and AI to boost agricultural productivity and ensure food security.
Mr. Rogers highlighted how China’s “Low-altitude Economy” could evolve into a “High-impact Economy” for Sierra Leone.
The Deputy Ambassador also underscored the importance of investment and partnership in achieving this vision. He extended an invitation to the global tech community to collaborate, saying, “We have the vision and the need. We encourage innovators and investors to bring their expertise, technology, and capital.”
Reassuring potential partners, he emphasized that “Sierra Leone is open for business,” highlighting the government’s commitment, under the leadership of Brig (Rtd) Julius Maada Bio, to fostering a favorable investment climate. He further added, “We are offering more than just a market; we are offering a partnership to jointly create transformative solutions that can serve as a model for the region.”
Colonel Richard Sahid Conteh, speaking on the sidelines of the event, reiterated the Embassy’s commitment to using technology to modernize security. He stressed that Sierra Leone’s participation provided valuable insights into advanced public safety and defense innovations. These developments support ongoing reforms within the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, initiatives championed by Chief of Defence Staff Lt Gen Amara Idara Bangura.
In conclusion, the Deputy Ambassador issued a powerful call to action: “Let’s connect the innovation of Shenzhen with the ambition of Freetown. Let’s work together to ensure that the drones in China’s skies also bring hope, prosperity, and security to the people of Sierra Leone.”
The delegation’s active participation at this major global expo reflects a forward-thinking foreign policy for Sierra Leone, strategically positioning the nation to leverage 21st-century technology for the benefit of all its citizens. This endeavor is in alignment with the country’s Medium-Term National Development Plan.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 5th Noverber 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
