The prospects for supplies of Russian grain and fertilizers to Sierra Leone have been discussed during a meeting between specialists from the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor) and Sierra Leonean First Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Theresa Dick.
The meeting took place in Freetown and was a continuation of a June meeting with the country’s ambassador to Russia, Mohamed Yongawo. Sierra Leone granted Russian fishermen the rights to fish Sierra Leone maritime waters at that time.
Russia has subsequently resumed wheat supplies to Sierra Leone after an eight-year hiatus.
The prospects for cooperation in combating animal diseases were also discussed. Russian specialists provided a list of vaccines produced by the Federal Center for Animal Health Protection. “It was also noted that scientists in Russia are developing veterinary drugs based on strains relevant to different territories, taking into account the circulation of viruses. Since the beginning of 2025, ten new vaccines for birds, fish, cattle and small ruminants, rabbits and carnivorous animals have been registered. Sierra Leone’s specialists showed particular interest in drugs against foot-and-mouth disease, small ruminant plague, avian influenza and rabies,” the agency said.

Other issues of cooperation between the two countries in agriculture were also discussed during the meeting.
Russia’s engagement in Africa has intensified in recent years, with several nations seeking joint projects with Moscow in defense, energy, education, and trade. The Kremlin has declared strengthening ties with the continent a top foreign-policy priority.
In January, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova confirmed plans for new embassies to be established in several African nations, including Sierra Leone. For now, the Consulate General in Freetown remains Russia’s primary diplomatic representation in the country.
Thus far, Sierra Leone’s bilateral trade with Russia has been limited, amounting to US$3 million in 2024. However, in June last year, Russian companies, including aluminum giant Rusal and diamond producer Alrosa, entered negotiations with Sierra Leone for bauxite mining and diamond operations.
These developments suggest the potential for enhanced economic ties between the two nations in the future, with opportunities in mining, agriculture, fishing, processing, and subsoil exploitation.
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