By Amara Kargbo
In a poignant gesture of compassion, Dr. Abu Bakarr Karim, the Sierra Leone Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, has presented financial assistance to the family of Ibrahim Dainkeh, a Sierra Leonean student who tragically passed away while studying on a scholarship in China. The presentation took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, attended by senior officials and the bereaved family, on the 26th February, 2025.
Ambassador Karim expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of Dainkeh, who was pursuing a Master’s degree at the China University of Petroleum in Beijing, specializing in Safety and Ocean Engineering. “This tragic event is one I never wished to witness,” he stated. He offered prayers for the deceased, asking for divine forgiveness for any sins committed during his lifetime.
Upon learning of Dainkeh’s passing, the Embassy took immediate action to support the family. “One of our primary responsibilities is to protect our citizens in China,” Ambassador Karim explained. He acknowledged the complex processes involved in repatriating the deceased’s body and underscored the Embassy’s commitment to ensuring that Dainkeh’s family received the necessary support.
Through collaboration with the health insurance scheme, the Embassy was able to secure a financial support package of approximately 100,000 RMB (around $13,736). “While money cannot bring back a loved one, it can provide some comfort during this difficult time,” he remarked.
George A. Dambo, Student Secretary at the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, shared his heartfelt condolences, highlighting the impact of Dainkeh’s death on the Sierra Leonean student community. “We currently have nearly 500 students studying abroad, with 107 in China,” he noted. Dambo recalled Dainkeh’s ambition and expressed hope that the family would find solace in their memories of him.
The deceased hailed from Gbinti in the Koinadugu District of Northern Sierra Leone. Dambo urged the family to remain strong and to continue praying, admitting that this was not the kind of support they had hoped for. “We want our students to return home and contribute to national development,” he said, reflecting on the unexpected nature of life’s events.
The Acting Director General of the Ministry conveyed condolences on behalf of the Minister, Alan C.E Logan adduced the importance of students returning home to aid in the nation’s growth. He praised the Ambassador for his prompt consular assistance and communication with authorities to secure the insurance claim.
Ibrahim S. Kamara, a relative of the deceased, expressed gratitude to the Ambassador and the Embassy staff for their exceptional support during this challenging time. “It has been a sad moment for us; our son went to China to further his education and help our family,” he shared. Kamara recounted the last conversation he had with Dainkeh, which centered around sending tuition fees to his younger brother in Sierra Leone. “It was heartbreaking to receive the news of his passing,” he said, reflecting on the family’s faith that God gives and takes away.
Kamara commended the Sierra Leonean government for maintaining a diplomatic presence in China, highlighting the vital role of the Embassy in supporting its citizens abroad.