President Bio Urges Greater Investment to Drive Africa’s Industrial Growth

President Julius Maada Bio has called for stronger investment in Africa’s industrial development, highlighting the need for infrastructure, value addition and strategic partnerships to support sustainable economic growth across the continent.

The President made the remarks while participating in the United Nations Global Compact’s Unstoppable Africa 2026 event in New York, where African leaders, investors, policymakers and business executives are examining opportunities to accelerate the continent’s economic transformation.

President Bio stressed that Africa’s abundant mineral resources present an opportunity to build stronger domestic industries, but said this will require greater investment in processing, manufacturing and supporting infrastructure.

Rather than depending primarily on the export of raw minerals, he emphasised the importance of developing industries capable of transforming natural resources within Africa and generating wider economic benefits.

He also pointed to infrastructure investment as an important component of this transformation, particularly in creating the capacity required to support industrial activity, expand production and facilitate economic opportunities.

The President reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s interest in working with investors through partnerships that support the country’s development priorities and contribute to broader African economic interests.

His participation in Unstoppable Africa forms part of his engagements in New York during the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The 2026 edition of Unstoppable Africa is being held under the theme, “Powering Business, Scaling Economies, Shaping the Future,” with discussions covering investment, trade, infrastructure, energy, digital transformation and critical minerals.

Ahead of the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week, President Bio said he looked forward to participating in key engagements and bilateral meetings aimed at advancing Sierra Leone’s national interests.

The forum, held at the New York Marriott Marquis on September 20 and 21, is convened by the United Nations and the African Union and organised by the United Nations Global Compact.