April 27^th is the most important day in the history of Sierra Leone. It was on this day that Sierra Leone became free after many years of colonial rule. Sierra Leoneans celebrate this day with great zeal every year. It was on this day that we earned complete freedom for the land that we love and the nation we rightly, highly exalt. What we achieved as a people on April 27, 1961 is a seat of equality and self respect – Sierra Leone claimed its right and voice as a member of the free nations of the world.

This was why Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad celebrate this day with a lot of enthusiasm. On April 26, Sierra Leoneans and friends in the Federal Republic of Germany, celebrated this historic day in low key grill party (barbecue) organised by the Sierra Leone Embassy. It was a moment of bliss catapulted in a frenzied atmosphere of a national celebration when the music, mostly played by Sierra Leonean artistes mesmerized the people into a dancing spree. There was enough to eat and drink.

Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Germany, Jongopie Siaka Stevens, was in the midst of the euphoria, amused at not only the entertaining dancing of his compatriots, but also the commitment and love demonstrated for their country. He acknowledged the people’s commitment and described it as a clear manifestation of love and patriotism.

The grill was preceded by Christian prayers on Sunday the 27^th April at the Sierra Leone United Brethren in Christ Church (UBC) in Berlin.

While in church, Ambassador Stevens encouraged his people to be proud of their country and work towards its development aspirations. He disclosed government’s efforts in making sure that the country reaches its development goals for sustainable economic growth.

The massive transformation of the country’s infrastructure including its post war reconciliation  lend credence to the fact that Sierra Leone is heading for the right path in terms of socio-economic development.

The Ambassador informed his audience that his government will continue do more in areas that are crucial for development growth including health, energy, agriculture, education and basic social service delivery.