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As Sierra Leone joined the global celebration of International Women’s Day over the weekend, State House proudly highlights the extraordinary journey of Maseray Brima, Liaison Officer to the Presidential Adviser on Social Welfare and Inclusion, Baindu Dassama. Her story reminds us that true vision does not depend on sight, but on determination, courage, and purpose.
Ms. Brima’s resilience and sustained advocacy continue to push forward national efforts toward inclusion and equal opportunity for persons with disabilities.
Her appointment as Liaison Officer represents an inspiring chapter at the heart of governance under the leadership of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio. The role, established as part of the President’s commitment to strengthening social welfare and inclusion, stands as the first dedicated officer to enhance coordination and advocacy for vulnerable groups.
Ms. Brima is both the pioneer of this newly established role and the first visually impaired woman to serve at such a level within the Presidency.
Once fully sighted, her world changed after completing her first degree. But where many would have stopped, she chose to rise. With resilience, she pursued higher education and became the first visually impaired woman in Sierra Leone to earn a master’s degree, an MA in Educational Administration from Njala University. This is a powerful example for women and persons with disabilities aspiring to overcome barriers to academic achievement.
Since taking up office in July 2025, she has been instrumental in promoting inclusive governance and expanding opportunities for persons with disabilities nationwide. Working hand in hand with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), she has supported initiatives aimed at increasing public-sector employment for persons with disabilities. With interviews completed and qualified candidates awaiting appointment letters, the country is taking an important step toward greater representation in national institutions.
She has further collaborated with development partners, including UNICEF, to advance certification processes that improve access to essential services and opportunities for persons with disabilities. Her advocacy extends to promoting the use of assistive devices, most notably the white cane, to improve independence and mobility among visually impaired individuals.
Ms. Brima has consistently engaged government agencies and key stakeholders to champion full implementation of the Persons with Disability Act and push for stronger policy inclusion across both public and private sectors.
Her contributions also include supporting gender assessment activities under the India Development Fund Project, ensuring that women, especially those with disabilities, are meaningfully considered and empowered within development initiatives.
Her work mirrors the broader national vision of President Julius Maada Bio, whose leadership continues to advance inclusive governance and enhance opportunities for women. Milestones such as the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act underscore his commitment to ensuring women’s full participation and representation at all levels of national decision-making.
The story of Maseray Brima stands as a shining symbol of strength, representation, and inclusive leadership. Her journey is not only a triumph of personal courage but also a reflection of Sierra Leone’s collective progress.
She embodies the truth that sustainable development is only possible when every citizen, regardless of gender or disability, is empowered to contribute to shaping the country’s future.
