The Foreign Service Academy, a key initiative within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has launched a three-day training program for newly appointed Ambassadors and High Commissioners.

This marks the inaugural session of domestic training for these diplomats, following the Academy’s establishment just over a year ago.

In a ceremony welcoming the new appointees, Aiah Edwin Mbawa, Director of Administration and Finance, praised President Julius Maada Bio for his strategic appointments. Mbawa, who has worked closely with many of the diplomats, highlighted the Academy’s role in enhancing the diplomatic acumen of Sierra Leone’s foreign representatives.

Mbawa described the Academy’s formation as a significant milestone for the government, noting its prior success in training military attaches stationed abroad. He expressed confidence that this new training initiative would continue to positively influence diplomatic performance.

Ambassador Soulay Daramy, Executive Director of the Academy, urged the appointees to uphold the nation’s prestige and effectiveness in their roles. He stressed the importance of avoiding diplomatic errors and adhering to protocols to protect and enhance Sierra Leone’s international image.

The upcoming sessions will cover essential diplomatic skills, including etiquette, partnership development, trade and investment strategies, and addressing socio-cultural challenges. The training is designed to prepare diplomats for their postings and ensure their readiness to navigate complex international environments.

The diplomats undergoing this orientation include:

Dr. Julius Sandy, High Commissioner to Nigeria

Martha C. Kanagbo, High Commissioner to The Gambia

Momodu Koroma, Ambassador to Morocco

Paul Massaquoi, Ambassador to South Korea

Alhaji Brima E. Koroma, Ambassador to Algeria

Ibrahim Turay, Ambassador to Senegal

Fatmata Sawaneh, Deputy Ambassador to Guinea

Princess Jay Turay, Deputy Ambassador to Germany

Mr. Lusine Kallon, Deputy Ambassador to Liberia

Abdul Aziz Turay, Deputy Ambassador to Saudi Arabia

Bockarie Ensah, Special Envoy for Trade & Investment

This comprehensive training aims to equip these diplomats with the skills necessary to effectively represent Sierra Leone and advance its interests globally.