By Thaimu T Kamara

The transition from Information and Communications to Employment, Labour and Social Security, and now Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has been described as a continuing journey of public service and trust under President Julius Maada Bio’s administration.

The newly appointed Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister has expressed gratitude to President Bio for the confidence placed in him over successive ministerial assignments, saying each responsibility has broadened his understanding of Sierra Leone and strengthened his commitment to national service.

Reflecting on his time in government, the minister recalled beginning his journey as Minister of Information and Communications, where he was involved in efforts to reform the country’s information and communications landscape.

According to him, that assignment provided an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between government, the media and citizens, while contributing to efforts aimed at improving communication between the state and the public.

In 2023, he was moved to the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security, where he took on responsibilities centred on the country’s workforce and social protection systems.

His tenure at the Labour Ministry focused on issues including employment creation, labour reforms, industrial relations, social protection, workplace standards and expanding opportunities for Sierra Leoneans.

He has described the three ministerial assignments as interconnected rather than separate chapters, arguing that each role has provided a different perspective on the country’s development priorities and national interests.

“From communicating Sierra Leone’s aspirations, to advancing the dignity and productivity of its people, and now to representing and protecting our national interest on the international stage,” he said, outlining the progression of his responsibilities.

The move to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation marks a new phase in his political and public service career, placing him at the centre of Sierra Leone’s diplomatic engagements and international relations.

The minister said he approaches the new responsibility with humility, experience and determination, while acknowledging the diplomatic gains already made by the government.

He pledged to build on those achievements and work with Sierra Leone’s international partners to strengthen the country’s voice, interests and standing globally.

The new Foreign Affairs Minister also thanked President Bio for the opportunities to serve in different areas of government, describing the continued appointments as a reflection of the trust placed in his ability to deliver.

He said public office should ultimately be measured by service and results, rather than by the title attached to a particular position.

The minister’s latest appointment comes as Sierra Leone continues to engage with regional, continental and international partners on matters ranging from diplomacy and development cooperation to trade, peace and security.

His experience across information, labour and now diplomacy is expected to provide him with a broad understanding of both domestic policy and the country’s engagement with the international community.

As he assumes responsibility for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, he has pledged to remain focused on advancing Sierra Leone’s national interests while strengthening relationships with development partners and other countries.

He described the change in portfolio as a continuation of the same mission rather than a departure from his previous responsibilities.

“From Information, to Labour, to Diplomacy; the portfolio may change, but the mission remains the same: service to Sierra Leone,” he said.

The minister’s statement underscores his intention to carry lessons from his previous assignments into his new role, as he takes on the task of representing Sierra Leone abroad and contributing to the country’s diplomatic agenda.

With the latest appointment, his government service has now expanded across three key areas – public communication, labour and employment, and international cooperation – marking a progression from domestic policy and public engagement to the broader responsibility of advancing Sierra Leone’s interests on the world stage.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 19th August 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)