Sierra Leone – November 25, 2025: The Embassy of Cuba in Sierra Leone held a solemn ceremony on Tuesday at its Aberdeen Road premises to commemorate the life and legacy of Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Alejandro Castro Ruz (1926–2016). The event marked the ninth anniversary of Castro’s passing and celebrated his enduring influence on global development, international solidarity, and Africa’s progress.
Ceremony Highlights
The commemoration brought together Sierra Leonean dignitaries, diplomats, academics, Cuban alumni, and friends of Cuba. Attendees watched a documentary showcasing Castro’s contributions to education, healthcare, and liberation movements worldwide, with particular emphasis on his support for Africa and developing nations.
Cuban Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Norma Sánchez Águila, described Castro as “a leader whose vision extended beyond the borders of Cuba and whose commitment to justice and human development left a lasting impact on the African continent.” She reaffirmed Cuba’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with Sierra Leone through training programs, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic engagement.
Cuba–Sierra Leone Ties
Speakers highlighted the deep historical bond between the two nations, forged under Castro’s leadership. Cuba’s support has included:
• Scholarship programs producing Sierra Leonean professionals in medicine, engineering, education, and public service.
• Medical diplomacy, with Cuban doctors serving in Sierra Leone for decades.
• Technical assistance in agriculture, engineering, and infrastructure development.
• Cultural exchanges that strengthened mutual understanding and friendship.
Ambassador Águila emphasized Cuba’s role as a model of South–South cooperation, helping Sierra Leone build human capital and institutional capacity.
Voices from Alumni
Several Sierra Leoneans trained in Cuba shared personal reflections:
• Dr. Joe Amara Koroma, a cardiologist, praised Cuba for instilling discipline, humility, and a commitment to serving the common good.
• Retired AIG Peter Kargbo, who studied in Cuba in 1972, credited Cuban training with strengthening Sierra Leone’s public service systems.
• Former Minister Alhaji I.B. Kargbo commended Cuban doctors and described Cuba’s medical diplomacy as an enduring legacy that continues to improve Sierra Leone’s healthcare system.
The ceremony underscored Castro’s ideological, political, and humanitarian influence while reaffirming Cuba’s ongoing partnership with Sierra Leone. Ambassador Águila concluded: “As we honor Fidel Castro’s legacy, we also reaffirm our shared vision for a future grounded in cooperation, dignity, and mutual respect.”
By Ibrahim S. Bangura