By Amara Kargbo

In a robust push for global engagement, Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, led by Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, outlined a policy anchored in Section 10C of the 1991 Constitution. Noting that the President serves as chief diplomat, setting the vision, directing policy, and safeguarding territorial integrity, sovereignty, and adherence to international law and treaties.

Speaking with Truth Media, Kabba underscored that the policy prioritizes non-alignment, mutual respect, and shared interests in bilateral relations to benefit Sierra Leone and its partners. He noted that the country is increasingly recognized as a principled voice on the world stage, highlighted by its recent return to the United Nations Security Council after a 53-year absence, under the leadership of the Foreign Affairs Ministry and Ambassador Imran Kanu, guided by the President. The administration commends Sierra Leone’s commitment to global peace and security and lauds the New York team and the minister’s leadership.

Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba acknowledged staffing challenges the ministry faced when joining the UN Security Council, including overstretched personnel and the need for specialized support at the permanent mission in New York. To address this, additional staff were recruited through the United Nations Development Programme, bringing skills beyond traditional Foreign Service capabilities. These personnel have proven effective, and the ministry aims to retain and integrate them as valuable assets, while also addressing broader capacity needs within the foreign service.

He noted ongoing capacity gaps and reported that ten UN consultants, who enjoy working at the mission and wish to stay with Sierra Leone, could be integrated into the Foreign Service, a highly specialized field with a clear career path. The Foreign Service Academy now trains staff, ambassadors, and representatives abroad.

Minister Kabba highlighted a building of capacity through a youthful, vibrant service. Many staff are under 50, including female heads of chancery in The Gambia and Senegal, who are excelling as they join the mainstream service. A notable example is a young woman in Senegal who rose from local staff to head of chancery, earning praise from the ambassador and president. This leadership inspires excellence and reflects Sierra Leone’s health, values, and capability abroad.