Ambassador Dr. Alhaji Sarjoh Bah: Africa’s Strategic Voice in Beijing
In a defining moment for Africa’s global diplomacy, Ambassador Dr. Alhaji Sarjoh Bah has officially assumed duty as the Permanent Representative of the African Union (AU) to the People’s Republic of China. His appointment signals a renewed commitment to strengthening Africa–China relations at a time of heightened strategic importance.
A proud Sierra Leonean, Ambassador Dr. Alhaji Sarjoh Bah has built a career that blends academic excellence with decades of service to the African Union. He holds a Ph.D. in Political Studies from Queen’s University in Canada, a Master of Public Administration from the University of Cape Town and a Bachelor of Arts from Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone.
His scholarly contributions have influenced policy debates on regional integration, peacebuilding and Africa’s evolving security architecture, positioning him as both a thought leader and a practitioner in global diplomacy.
Ambassador Dr. Alhaji Sarjoh Bah’s posting comes at a critical juncture in Africa–China relations. China, now Africa’s largest trading partner and a central development ally, is engaging with the continent through multiple channels, including the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
In his early engagements, Ambassador Dr. Alhaji Sarjoh Bah has begun aligning the AU’s priorities with the ten Partnership Actions announced by President Xi Jinping during the 2024 FOCAC Summit. These include collaboration in industrial development, digital transformation, green growth, healthcare, trade, infrastructure and human capital development; areas vital to advancing Africa’s Agenda 2063.
With over two decades at the AU Commission, Ambassador Dr. Alhaji Sarjoh Bah has held several pivotal positions, including Director of Conflict Management, Head of the Crisis Management and Post-Conflict Reconstruction Division and Chief Advisor on Peace, Security and Governance at the AU Mission to the United Nations.
He has been instrumental in developing mediation frameworks, post-conflict recovery strategies and strengthening African-led peace operations. His record underscores a career dedicated to advancing resilience, governance and African agency in global decision-making.
As the AU’s chief diplomat in Beijing, Ambassador Dr. Alhaji Sarjoh Bah is not only tasked with strengthening AU–China cooperation but also with coordinating the African Group of Ambassadors to ensure Africa speaks with a unified voice. His vision emphasizes transparency, mutual respect and partnerships that prioritize African needs and aspirations.
“China is a key partner, but our engagement must be strategic, coordinated and anchored in Africa’s development blueprint,” he has often stressed in policy forums.
Ambassador Dr. Alhaji Sarjoh Bah’s distinguished service was recognized by His Excellency Brigadier (Retired) Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, who conferred on him the rank of Ambassador. This honour reflects both his national contributions and his impact on continental diplomacy.
As Africa positions itself on the global stage, Ambassador Dr. Alhaji Sarjoh Bah’s appointment represents continuity and renewal. His blend of intellectual depth, diplomatic experience and Pan-African commitment makes him a strategic voice for the continent in Beijing.
With his leadership, the AU is set to chart a new era of principled, African-led diplomacy ensuring that partnerships with China foster equitable growth, shared prosperity and sustainable transformation.
