Freetown, 24th October 2025- President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has officially received letters of credence from six newly accredited ambassadors to Sierra Leone, marking a renewed chapter in the country’s diplomatic engagement and international cooperation.
The envoys, representing Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire, Ireland, Germany, Lebanon, and the Philippines, were formally welcomed during a credential ceremony held at State House in Freetown.
The new ambassadors include:
- His Excellency Bob H. Sheriff, Republic of Liberia
- Her Excellency M’Brah Aya Georgette, Republic of Côte d’Ivoire
- His Excellency Patrick Joseph McManus, Republic of Ireland
- His Excellency Dr. Pascal Richter, Federal Republic of Germany
- His Excellency Dr. Farah Farah, Republic of Lebanon
- His Excellency Mersole J. Mellejor, Republic of the Philippines
In his address, President Bio congratulated the diplomats on their appointments and reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to peace, stability, and mutual cooperation. He emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral ties across sectors including education, trade, energy, and human capital development.
“Despite geographical boundaries, our longstanding relationships remind us that we are brothers, sisters, and neighbours,” President Bio said. “My government remains firmly committed to advancing human capital development, achieving food security, and empowering women and youth.”
He commended Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire for their contributions to regional peace and integration within the Mano River Basin, and expressed gratitude to Côte d’Ivoire for its collaboration in energy and economic development, as well as its hospitality towards Sierra Leonean citizens.
President Bio also highlighted shared priorities with the other nations, including youth empowerment, education, and people-to-people diplomacy. “There is so much we can do together to strengthen our bilateral relationships in ways that deliver win-win outcomes for our nations and our people,” he affirmed.
Representing their respective governments, the ambassadors expressed appreciation for the warm reception and pledged to align their diplomatic missions with Sierra Leone’s development agenda, reinforcing cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
The ceremony concluded with renewed commitments to deepen diplomatic ties and foster inclusive growth through international collaboration.
