2023 was a year of deep loss for Sierra Leone, as the nation bid farewell to several notable figures who left an indelible mark on the country’s cultural landscape and political identity.

These individuals, though diverse in their fields, each played a significant role in shaping the nation’s story, leaving behind legacies that continue to inspire and resonate with the people.

According to the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), a total of 13,186 deaths were recorded in Sierra Leone 2023, with males comprising 55% (7,252) and females 45% (5,934). The distribution among age groups reveals that 28.8% of the deaths were among individuals aged 60 and above, 28.1% in the 35-59 age bracket, 23.5% under the age of five, and 19.3% between ages 5 and 34.

Actress Henrietta Mbawah, Politician Edward Mohamed Turay, Musician Mos B, SLFA’s Nahim Khadi, and Dr. Rashidatu Kamara are among some of these notable names.

This list represents just a small portion of the vibrant individuals who were lost to Sierra Leone in 2023. Each life, unique and impactful, deserves to be remembered and celebrated. Their legacies live on in the hearts and minds of those they touched, serving as a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Sierra Leonean spirit.

By remembering and celebrating these individuals, we ensure that their stories continue to inspire future generations and contribute to the ongoing narrative of Sierra Leone’s rich and multifaceted history.

Henrietta Mbawah (1988 –2023)

Henrietta Mbawah was a Sierra Leonean TV Actress, Radio personality, youth activist, and MC CEO of Salone lives matter and miss Mano River. She was best known as the director of critically acclaimed short film Jattu and role of ‘Journalist’ in short film Ebola Checkpoint.

Mbawah will be best known and remembered for her excellent acting and directing skills especially in her popular short films; Jatu and Ebola Checkpoint which made waves in the film industry in the country.

She died on 17 February from dental treatment.

Edward Mohamed Turay (1945 – 2023)

Edward Turay was a prominent Sierra Leonean politician and diplomat. He was leader of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) from 1996 to 2002.

He was also the Sierra Leonean High Commissioner to the United Kingdom from 2010 until his death in 2023.

Turay died on the 25th June from Natural cause.

Joseph Amos Bangura (Mos-B)

Joseph Amos Bangura, known by his stage name Mos-B, was a popular Sierra Leonean pop singer with a unique talent in the world of music. He was a gifted singer and also a prolific songwriter and an exceedingly creative entertainer.

Hailing from Sierra Leone, he was raised in a musical environment nurtured by his musical mother, which kindled his passion for creating music. Remarkably, his first performance as a musician was in front of a massive audience of 20,000 people, setting the stage for his meteoric rise in the music industry.

The passing of Mos-B is a tremendous loss to the music world, and his legacy as a multifaceted artist and cultural ambassador will be remembered fondly by his fans and the global music community.

He died on October 22nd, no cause was given.

Nahim Khadi (1948 – 2023)

Nahim Kadi was Former president of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA). Kadi, who served as the president of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) for two terms, leaves behind a legacy as a football player, coach, and administrator.

Born in 1948 in Freetown, Nahim Kadi made a significant impact on Sierra Leonean football both on and off.

He died in the United Kingdom on June 13, no cause was given.

Dr. Rashidatu Kamara

Rashidatu Kamara was a former Doctor of the Sierra Leone Police force who died in the United States of America.

The late Medical Doctor was fondly called “Mamy Rashida”, and she was well known for her dedication and hard work during her period of active service.

She will be remembered for her active service in the Sierra Leone Police, especially for her excellent official medical opinion rendered to aid injured persons in Police custody or Police officers injured on duty.

She died on October 17th, from natural cause.