US Visa Suspension Sparks Concern Among Sierra Leoneans, Minister Kabba Speaks Out

Foreign Affairs Minister Timothy Musa Kabba has addressed growing concerns over the suspension of certain categories of United States visas for Sierra Leonean applicants, acknowledging the distress experienced by students, families, and professionals affected by the measure.

In a statement released this week, Minister Kabba highlighted the personal appeals he has received over the past six months, from students who had secured university admissions in the US but were unable to travel, to families selected for the US Diversity Visa program whose scheduled interviews were abruptly canceled.

“It’s grueling; genuine dreams are being shattered,” the Minister said, noting that the situation has left many citizens frustrated and anxious.

Minister Kabba attributed the suspension to instances of visa breaches, including overstaying beyond permitted durations, which have affected Sierra Leone’s overall visa credibility.

He cited the recent disappearance of Abubakarr Sillah, Assistant Director of Labour and Employment, who was issued a US visa to attend the 2025 Diaspora Investment Conference in Maryland on 8th August. “Mr. Sillah has since disappeared,” the Minister confirmed, emphasizing the gravity of such incidents.

Despite these challenges, Minister Kabba reassured the public that the Government of Sierra Leone is “relentlessly working behind the scenes to resolve this matter with the US Department through its Embassy in Freetown.”

He also stressed that the visa suspension does not reflect the overall strength of Sierra Leone’s bilateral relations with the United States. “The US private sector is very active in Sierra Leone today; our multinational and bilateral partnerships are stronger than ever. But every sovereign nation acts on its national interests,” he said.

Minister Kabba urged affected citizens to remain patient and uphold the integrity of visa privileges, highlighting the importance of maintaining trust with international partners.

He concluded his statement with a message of encouragement: “Have a blessed weekend.”