Umaru Fofona Congratulates Asmaa James on Her Appointment as Sierra Leone's Deputy Ambassador to Belgium

August 10, 2024

Sierra Leonean BBC journalist Umaru Fofona has warmly congratulated Asmaa James on her recent approval by Parliament to serve as Sierra Leone’s Deputy Ambassador to Belgium.

In his message, Fofona praised James for her outstanding career and emphasized the importance of her new diplomatic role, which he described as a challenging and significant multilateral mission.

Fofona expressed deep admiration for James’s journey from a young radio reporter to a leading figure in the media and a strong advocate for girls’ rights. He noted the emotional tributes paid to her in Parliament, reflecting on her impressive professional growth over the past two decades.

He also highlighted her resilience in overcoming the criticism she has faced throughout her career, acknowledging her strong influence on the media landscape in Sierra Leone.

Looking ahead, Fofona expressed confidence in James’s abilities and wished her success in her new role, which he described as a substantial challenge. In a notable remark, he added:

“As you take on this role at the EU while Sierra Leone is a member of the UN Security Council, remember that even the sky won’t be the limit if you excel.”

Fofona also hinted at a possible future in politics, suggesting that if he were to run for President of Sierra Leone, James could expect a more senior role in his administration.