By Festus J. Lahai, Information Attaché, Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Moscow, Russian Federation
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, has called on Russia and African countries to focus on measurable results and sustainable capacity-building in their scientific partnerships.
Speaking during a panel discussion on “Scientific Partnership Between Russia and Africa: From Joint Research to Technological Leadership,” Dr. Wurie said the success of the partnership should be measured by the capabilities and institutions developed rather than the number of agreements signed.
She emphasised the need for African universities and technical institutions to become centres of innovation, research, technological development and practical problem-solving.
The Minister identified food security, agricultural technology, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, marine science, public health and sustainable natural resource management as key areas for cooperation with Russia.
She also called for increased technology transfer, postgraduate training, research fellowships, faculty exchanges and opportunities for young scientists, particularly women and early-career researchers.
Dr. Wurie proposed that the Russia–Africa Partnership Forum Action Plan 2027–2029 should be supported by clear projects, responsible institutions, financing arrangements, timelines and measurable targets.
She further stressed the importance of accountability, intellectual property protection and sustainable funding to ensure that scientific partnerships deliver lasting benefits.
Highlighting Sierra Leone’s interest in strengthening cooperation with Russian universities and research institutions, she pointed to existing partnerships, including engagement with Eastern Technical University, as a foundation for further collaboration.
The Minister said that by 2029, the partnership should demonstrate tangible achievements, including stronger research institutions, trained scientists, locally adapted technologies and opportunities for young people.
Among the Sierra Leonean officials present were Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Mr. Julius Mattai; Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Russia, Mohamed Yongawo; Chairman of the National Minerals Agency, Ing. Dabo Hadji; Deputy Director General of EDSA, Ing. Francis Nyama; and EDSA Corporate Secretary, Sahr Nepor.
