High Commissioner Kanagbo Reaches Out to Sierra Leoneans in Basse, Pledges Continued Support.

In a demonstration of ongoing support for its citizens abroad, Her Excellency Martha Kanagbo, Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to The Gambia, met with the diaspora community in Basse Town on November 27, 2025. The engagement, which featured a constructive town hall meeting and the distribution of essential food packages, underscored the government's dedication to maintaining strong ties with Sierra Leoneans overseas.

The Sierra Leonean community in Basse, located near the Gambia-Senegal border, gave a warm welcome to the High Commissioner and her delegation.

During the town hall meeting, High Commissioner Kanagbo conveyed heartfelt greetings from His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio. She expressed her deep appreciation for the community's hospitality and reaffirmed the importance of every citizen, both at home and abroad.

"From our independence in 1961 to today, Sierra Leoneans have always been pioneers and contributors to progress across the continent," stated Kanagbo. "Here in The Gambia, you carry that legacy. We encourage you to continue being law-abiding residents and to maintain a positive, neutral stance by not involving yourselves in local political affairs or illicit activities."

The High Commissioner also took the opportunity to highlight the developmental strides being made under President Bio's leadership, with a specific focus on the transformative impact of the Free Quality Education and healthcare initiatives.

Echoing the High Commissioner's sentiments, the Head of Chancery, Khadijatu Eunice, assured those present of the High Commission’s unwavering support. "Our doors in Banjul are always open to you," she stated. "We are here to serve and assist you in any way we can."

As a tangible demonstration of the government's care, H.E. Martha Kanagbo, on behalf of President Bio and the High Commission, presented substantial food packages to the community. The donation was met with gratitude and seen as a direct support for the well-being of citizens living far from home.

Osman Sillah, the head of Sierra Leoneans in the Upper River Region, spoke on behalf of the community, expressing their profound delight at the historic visit. "This is the first time a Sierra Leonean High Commissioner has visited us here in Basse," Sillah noted. "It is a momentous occasion that makes us feel seen and valued."

He also reported that the relationship between Sierra Leonean residents and local authorities remains cordial and constructive.

Other speakers, including women’s representatives, commended President Bio, the High Commissioner, and the mission staff for their show of solidarity, emphasizing how meaningful the engagement was for a distant community.

Following the event in Basse, the High Commissioner and her team conducted a similar outreach, providing food packages to Sierra Leonean widows residing in Brikamaba.