The High Commission of India in Freetown on 26 January 2026 hosted a colourful reception to celebrate the 77th Republic Day of India, bringing together senior government officials, diplomats, members of the media, and the Indian community in Sierra Leone.
The event was attended by Heads and senior members of diplomatic missions and international organisations, as well as officials from the Government of Sierra Leone, academia, think tanks, and friends of India.
Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Frances Piagie Alghali, attended as Chief Guest. Several ministers and senior officials were also present, including those responsible for Internal Affairs, Education, Public Administration, Energy, Social Welfare, Justice, and Agriculture. The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists was also among the guests.
In her speech, Deputy Minister Alghali said relations between India and Sierra Leone have continued to grow stronger over the years. She noted that cooperation between the two countries has expanded in many areas and has produced real results, especially in capacity building, technical support, and human resource development.
India’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, H.E. Mr. B.C. Pradhan, described the relationship between the two nations as warm and friendly. He said cooperation covers trade, investment, health, education, culture, and strong people-to-people ties. He also praised the Indian community in Sierra Leone for their contribution to national development and their involvement in social and charitable activities.
Guests were entertained with cultural performances showcasing India’s rich traditions. A classical dance themed “Vande Mataram” by Ms. Seethal Prakash drew strong applause, while a group performance by the Sierra Leonean India-Africa Dance Club added excitement to the evening.
The reception highlighted the long-standing friendship between India and Sierra Leone and renewed commitment from both sides to deepen cooperation in different sectors for mutual development.
