FREETOWN, Sierra Leone — Sierra Leone is stepping up efforts to attract investment as President Julius Maada Bio mobilizes major African financial and business leaders behind the upcoming West Africa Integration and Investment Summit (WAIIS).

Bio recently convened a high-level virtual meeting as preparations intensified for the summit, which aims to transform regional integration into investment opportunities, development projects and jobs.

The initiative comes as Sierra Leone seeks stronger private-sector participation and greater investment across sectors capable of supporting economic growth. Regional cooperation could also help businesses access larger markets and strengthen trade links across West Africa.

The investment push could create new opportunities for Sierra Leonean businesses, particularly if regional financing is converted into infrastructure, trade and employment projects.

The summit is expected to bring together influential financiers, investors and business leaders, putting Sierra Leone at the centre of discussions on how West African economies can attract more capital and accelerate development.