The Sierra Leone High Commission in The Gambia has launched another round of community engagements aimed at strengthening ties with Sierra Leoneans residing in The Gambia, including Brusubi traders.

The High Commissioner, Her Excellency Martha C. Kanagbo, and staff recently reiterated their commitment to advocacy for women and to defending the rights and welfare of Sierra Leoneans abroad.

The High Commissioner encouraged the youth to unite and represent Sierra Leone with integrity, noting that The Gambia is their host nation and certain behaviors are unacceptable there.

Mahawa Alieu, information attaché, urged Sierra Leoneans to act with honesty, recognizing The Gambia as a foreign land where they must conduct themselves with dignity and respect.

She pointed out incidents involving drugs, verbal abuse, and fighting, stressing the importance of transparency to resolve conflicts amicably among themselves.

Madam Kadijatu Eunice Alpha, Head of Chancery, Sierra Leone High Commission to The Gambia urged compliance with local laws and resilience, reminding attendees to remain focused and patient as the Mission engages Gambian authorities to create a conducive trading space.

She outlined potential repatriation support through Red Cross Gambian funds for those wishing to return home or seeking medical care.

The Commissioner stressed maintaining a positive image for Sierra Leone, advising against involvement in illicit activities such as drug trafficking, rape or murder. She urged reporting challenges to the Sierra Leone Embassy rather than taking matters into one’s own hands and discouraged involvement in Gambian politics to uphold national dignity.

After engagements with Gambian Police, attendees were encouraged to refrain from political entanglements and to maintain lawful conduct. The Commissioner underscored the harms of Kush and cautioned abstention to protect the country’s reputation. However, she admonished Sierra Leoneans to register at the Embassy to access support proactively, not only in times of trouble.