UK Envoy and Chief Justice Discuss Sierra Leone Judiciary Reforms

British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone Josephine Gauld has held talks with Chief Justice Komba Kamanda on judicial reforms, priorities for the 2026/27 judicial year and cooperation between Sierra Leone and the United Kingdom.

Gauld made the remarks during a courtesy visit to Kamanda at the Chief Justice’s Chambers in Freetown on 15 September 2026. The engagement also considered opportunities to strengthen collaboration on the rule of law and the administration of justice.

Focus on judicial priorities

The discussions covered the Judiciary’s priorities for the new judicial year, ongoing reforms and support from the UKSL Pro Bono Network. Continued cooperation between the two countries was also identified as an area of mutual interest.

Gauld expressed appreciation for the reforms being undertaken by the Judiciary under Kamanda’s leadership and congratulated him on the institution’s priorities for the 2026/27 judicial year.

The British High Commissioner also used the meeting to thank the Chief Justice for inviting her to the Judicial Thanksgiving Service held at Saint George’s Cathedral in Freetown. The service took place on a Sunday, although no exact date was provided.

Call for continued partnership

Kamanda thanked Gauld for the United Kingdom’s continued support to the Judiciary and for attending the Thanksgiving Service.

The Chief Justice welcomed further support and collaboration that could help improve the administration of justice across Sierra Leone. He also underscored the importance of partnerships in strengthening the country’s justice system and ensuring effective access to justice.

The engagement reflects ongoing cooperation between Sierra Leone and the United Kingdom in support of the rule of law, access to justice and an effective and independent Judiciary. Specific reform measures, funding arrangements, agreements and implementation timelines were not detailed.