By: Abdul Razack Gbla
As Muslim and Christian faithful across Sierra Leone observe the sacred seasons of Ramadan and Lent, a humanitarian initiative led by Africa–Europe trade envoy and philanthropist Michele Maria Valenti has provided essential food supplies to support worshippers during the period of prayer, fasting, and reflection.
The support, distributed on March 11, 2026, was facilitated through Valenti’s business partner in Sierra Leone, represented Alhaji Bangura, who coordinated the delivery of food items to several mosques and churches across the capital.
Beneficiaries received essential supplies including bags of rice, gallons of cooking oil, cartons of tomato paste, boxes of seasoning cubes, as well as bags of salt and sugar. The donations were delivered to religious institutions in Freetown, where leaders described the assistance as timely support for congregations observing the sacred periods.
Among the Muslim institutions that benefited were Masjid Jamieu Jalil Temne Central Mosque and mosques located around the Ferry Terminal and Ferry Junction areas. Religious leaders received the items on behalf of their congregations.
Chief Imam of Masjid Jamieu Jalil Temne Central Mosque, Dr. Ibrahim Salieu Kamara, expressed appreciation for the gesture, noting that the support came at an important time for Muslims observing Ramadan. He offered prayers for Valenti and commended the initiative for remembering the Muslim community during the holy month.
Similarly, the Chief Imam of the mosque at Eastern Ferry Terminal, Sheikh Issa, thanked Valenti for extending assistance to their congregation and for supporting communities across Africa.
In recognition of the Christian Lent season, similar supplies were also delivered to churches, including St. John Anglican Church, where church leaders and members received the items and expressed gratitude for the support.
The Ramadan and Lent donations form part of a wider humanitarian outreach by Valenti, involving the distribution of food items worth millions of Leones to religious communities across Sierra Leone. After the initial distribution in Freetown, the initiative is expected to extend to provincial areas.
Valenti has gained recognition across Africa for his diplomatic engagements and development initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation between Europe and African nations. Observers say the Ramadan and Lent donations highlight his continued commitment to promoting unity, compassion, and humanitarian support during important religious observances.
