By Joseph Momoh, Daily Scope
On November 26, 2025, a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Sierra Leone and Cyprus, aimed at bolstering maritime training and capacity building. The agreement was formalized by Sierra Leone’s Minister of Transport and Aviation, Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay, and Cyprus’s Shipping Deputy Minister, Ms. Marina Hadjimanolis, at the Cyprus High Commission in London.
This landmark agreement follows a successful three-day state visit to Cyprus by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, during which he and his delegation were warmly welcomed by Cypriot President Mr. Nikos Christodoulides and officials from the Republic of Cyprus.
During the visit, both governments solidified their partnership through several MoUs covering various sectors, including higher education, sports, and political consultations, reflecting a comprehensive expansion of bilateral ties.
In a joint statement after the signing, the ministers expressed optimism regarding the enhanced cooperation between their countries. Ms. Hadjimanolis called the MoU a practical step forward in fostering collaboration, while Ambassador Turay highlighted Sierra Leone’s dedication to deepening relations with Cyprus. “This MoU opens a new chapter in our maritime collaboration,” he remarked. “It underscores our mutual commitment to skills development and international cooperation that will yield tangible benefits for both nations.”
The agreement is anticipated to facilitate training opportunities, technical exchanges, and institutional collaboration within the maritime sector, which is becoming increasingly vital for Sierra Leone’s economic development.
The signing ceremony was attended by Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Dr. Morie Komba Manyeh, alongside Deputy High Commissioner Mrs. Yvonne King Odigboh and First Secretaries Mr. Mohamed Kapu Lungay and Ms. Hawah Bah.
Also present were members of the Sierra Leonean delegation, who are in London for a week-long engagement at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a pivotal institution that sets global standards for maritime operations. Key figures in attendance included Mr. Yankuba Askia Bio, Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority; Dr. Daniel Kaitibie, Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration; and Martin Maada George Esq., Company Secretary of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority.
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