DUBAI – Sierra Leone celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai with a flag-raising ceremony at the Stage of Nations in Al Wasl Plaza, speeches, cultural performances and a women-led media conference at the Expo Media Centre.
His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, welcomed by His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Commissioner General of Expo 2020 Dubai, was accompanied by First Lady Her Excellency Fatima Maada Bio, Commissioner General of Sierra Leone at Expo 2020 Dubai, and a delegation that included Professor David J Francis, Chief Minister of the Republic of Sierra Leone and Minister of Foreign Affairs; Hon Mamadi Gobeh Kamara, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Sierra Leone; and Hon Ann Marie Baby Harding, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources of the Republic of Sierra Leone.
The cultural performances included a poem recitation by Wilma Knuckles, a child ambassador, poet, actress and musician, who is an activist for children; and a moving rendition of Amazing Grace by Rozzy Sokota, Khadison Duwai and Sir Andrew James; while Madame Amie Kallon and her ensemble’s traditional musical performance brought the delegation to its feet.
HE President Julius Maada Bio said: “I extend my warmest felicitations to the esteemed government and its people of the UAE for demonstrating how a brighter future is possible. With its theme, ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, Expo 2020 Dubai undoubtedly offers a unique platform for countries around the world to showcase their diversity and potential, to connect businesses, business leaders and policy-makers, attract investment and discuss ways of fostering a brighter and more sustainable future for all. It is in this spirit that I urge greater partnership, dialogue and collaboration among nations, as the world tackles the economic impact of COVID-19, especially among our smaller African economies.”
HE Sheikh Nahayan said: “Sierra Leone’s participation in this World Expo gives us a unique glimpse into what this wonderful country and its friendly people have to offer. It also allows us to learn more about the unique history, culture and investment opportunities that are available in Sierra Leone, as a future-oriented nation, seeking to create new partnerships for sustainable development.”
The afternoon’s media conference was led by First Lady HE Fatima Maada Bio, who was accompanied by Hon Mamadi Gobeh Kamara and Hon Ann Marie Baby Harding.
HE Fatima Maada Bio said: “Empowering women in Africa has been a huge challenge for us. I don’t know if it’s because people mix tradition with religion to deprive women. Our president has moved away from that idea. The UAE is a Muslim country: 50 per cent of the cabinet in the country is female and a lot of women hold very senior positions. In terms of businesses and entrepreneurs, many women have opportunities here.
“There was nothing in this location when I came to the UAE two years ago, but what I’ve seen [at Expo 2020] on returning, under the leadership of Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, is incredibly amazing.”
Located in the Opportunity District, the Sierra Leone Pavilion, under the theme ‘New Beginning’, takes visitors on a journey to the West African country, which is rich in natural resources. Visitors can explore the story of Sierra Leone diamonds and the human symbol they have come to represent: love; while children can enjoy the play area, which features the themes of the flag, traditions and national costumes.
National and Honour Days at Expo 2020 Dubai are moments to celebrate each of our 200-plus International Participants, shining a light on their culture and achievements and showcasing their pavilions and programming.
Running until 31 March 2022, Expo 2020 has invited visitors from across the planet to join the making of a new world in a six-month celebration of human creativity, innovation, progress and culture.
© Press Release 2021
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