Sierra Leone has taken a significant step in strengthening its legal fraternity with the official launch of the African Bar Association (AfBA) Sierra Leone Chapter, an event described as a milestone in the country’s legal development and regional integration.
The launch ceremony, held in Freetown, brought together senior legal practitioners, government representatives, and delegates from across Africa, highlighting Sierra Leone’s growing commitment to justice, the rule of law, and human rights within a broader continental framework.
The establishment of the chapter formally integrates Sierra Leone into the African Bar Association’s network of legal professionals dedicated to advancing legal standards, professional development, and cross-border collaboration across the continent.
Prominent lawyer and opposition All People’s Congress (APC) figure Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, who is also the only Sierra Leonean lifetime member of the AfBA Governing Council, welcomed the development, describing it as a “beacon for legal reform and capacity building” in the country.
He urged members of the legal profession to remain steadfast in their responsibilities, calling on lawyers to “defend the oppressed, even when it is unpopular, and mentor the next generation of fearless advocates.”
The ceremony also featured the induction of the chapter’s interim executive committee, which is expected to spearhead upcoming programs including continuing legal education, professional exchanges, and pro bono initiatives.
Organisers say the new chapter is poised to strengthen democratic governance in Sierra Leone by enhancing access to justice and promoting higher standards of legal practice through regional cooperation and shared expertise across Africa.










