Sierra Leone launches media campaign for investment summit
Dr. Kandeh Yumkella kicked off promotion for the West Africa Integration and Investment Summit set for November 17-18.
Sierra Leone is preparing to host the West Africa Integration and Investment Summit (WAIIS) 2026 in Freetown from November 17-18. Special Envoy Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella launched the summit's media campaign on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in Aberdeen, Freetown. The summit aims to attract international capital and strengthen cross-border trade across West Africa.
Dr. Yumkella, who also chairs the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security, stated that WAIIS focuses on practical investment mobilization and project implementation, not pledging. He highlighted the Gento Group's proposed port development at Kent and Banana Island as a major infrastructure investment example. The summit will connect investment-ready projects with financial institutions and strategic partners.
The summit is expected to draw African business leaders, international investors, financial institutions, development partners, and Heads of State. Preparations include four thematic pillars to direct investor attention to priority sectors. A Private Sector Advisory Board of influential African business leaders has also been established.
Why it mattersSierra Leone is preparing to host a major regional investment gathering to attract international capital and strengthen cross-border trade.