The life and extraordinary legacy of former United States President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100, are being celebrated through a six-day funeral service that began Saturday in his home state of Georgia. His profound contributions to global peace, health, and human rights, including transformative initiatives in Sierra Leone, are being warmly remembered.
In tribute to his life and service, the U.S. Embassy in Freetown has announced opening a condolence book for public members who wish to pay their respects. The book will be available for signing at the Embassy on the following dates and times:
Monday, January 6: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Tuesday, January 7: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Wednesday, January 8: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Visitors are reminded to bring valid identification to pass through Embassy security screening.
President Carter’s funeral services in the United States include his remains lying in repose at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, Georgia, until Tuesday morning, providing an opportunity for the public to pay their respects. A ceremonial procession will follow, transporting his remains to Washington, D.C., where he will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol before his burial.
Impact on Sierra Leone
President Carter's legacy extends to Sierra Leone through the work of the Carter Center, which focused on health, democracy, and women’s empowerment. One of its most impactful initiatives, "Informing Women, Changing Lives," was a collaboration with the Freetown City Council. This project empowered women by equipping them with essential health, education, and civic information, enabling them to improve their lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
The Carter Center also made remarkable strides in combating neglected tropical diseases such as Guinea worm and river blindness, significantly reducing their prevalence in rural Sierra Leone. In addition, the Center supported transparent governance and fair electoral processes, further solidifying its role in Sierra Leone's development.
A Legacy of Service
Jimmy Carter's unwavering commitment to humanitarian efforts and social justice earned him admiration worldwide, including in Sierra Leone. His dedication to uplifting lives through service exemplified the transformative power of compassion and partnership.
The U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone expressed condolences, emphasising Carter’s work’s enduring impact in fostering hope and progress. Sierra Leoneans honour his legacy as a champion of dignity and empowerment whose initiatives created lasting change.
As Sierra Leone joins the global community in mourning his passing, President Carter’s contributions remain a beacon of inspiration. They exemplify a life dedicated to building a better world for all.
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