By Michaella Faith Wright

Mahawa Allieu, the Information and Press Attaché at the Sierra Leone High Commission in Banjul, The Gambia, has emphasized the critical role of her office in fostering bilateral relations, disseminating information, and addressing the needs of Sierra Leoneans living in the region.

In an exclusive interview, Allieu described her responsibilities, which include sharing updates on the activities of the Sierra Leone High Commission, the president’s engagements, and addressing concerns of the Sierra Leonean community.

“We ensure Sierra Leoneans here stay connected to home through timely information about our country and the High Commission’s work. For instance, we cover diplomatic meetings and regional events, especially in Guinea-Bissau, which also falls under the High Commissioner’s purview,” she explained.

The Sierra Leonean community in The Gambia has grown significantly, from approximately 6,000 in 2014 to nearly 10,000 today. According to Allieu, the long-standing bilateral relationship between the two nations contributes to this robust integration.

Embracing New Media

Allieu credited new media platforms for enhancing information dissemination. “With social media, I can broadcast programs directly from my office, reaching