Outgoing Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Timothy Kabba has formally handed over the affairs of the ministry to his successor, Mohamed Rahman Swarray, marking a transition in the leadership of Sierra Leone’s diplomatic institution.

The handover ceremony was held on Monday at the ministry’s conference room at Tower Hill in Freetown, where Kabba officially transferred responsibilities to Swarray in the presence of ministry officials and other stakeholders.

Kabba’s departure brings an end to his tenure at the Foreign Affairs Ministry, during which he was responsible for overseeing Sierra Leone’s bilateral and multilateral diplomatic engagements and representing the country’s interests in the international arena.

Swarray, who succeeds Kabba, described his appointment as part of his broader commitment to public service, having previously served as Minister of Information and Communications and Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security.

Speaking during the ceremony, Swarray said his successive roles in government have been guided by a common objective of serving the interests of Sierra Leone. He noted that his new responsibility at Foreign Affairs would build on his previous experiences while focusing on strengthening the country’s diplomatic relations and international partnerships.

Swarray also expressed appreciation to President Julius Maada Bio for entrusting him with successive responsibilities in government, saying the new assignment provides an opportunity to further advance Sierra Leone’s interests and strengthen its voice on the global stage.

The formal handover places Swarray at the helm of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, which is responsible for managing Sierra Leone’s relations with other countries and international organisations.