Mohamed Rahman Swaray has formally assumed office as Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, pledging to build on the country’s diplomatic achievements and streng then its voice, interests and standing on the international stage.
The official handing-over ceremony was held on Monday, 17 August 2026, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Tower Hill, Freetown. It brought together senior Government officials, diplomats, Ministry personnel and other stakeholders to witness the transition of leadership.
Mohamed Rahman Swaray succeeds Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, who served as Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation from August 2023. The change followed a recent Cabinet reshuffle by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, under which Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba was appointed to serve as an adviser.
Reflecting on his appointment, Mohamed Rahman Swaray expressed gratitude to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for the confidence placed in him and described his movement through various ministerial portfolios as a continuous journey of national service.
“I am deeply humbled by the confidence His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has continued to repose in me,” Mohamed Rahman Swaray stated.
He recalled beginning his ministerial journey as Minister of Information and Communications, where he contributed to reforms in the information and communications sector and worked to strengthen relations between the Government, the media and citizens.
In 2023, Mohamed Rahman Swaray was appointed Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security. During his tenure, he focused on employment creation, labour reforms, industrial relations, social protection, workplace standards and expanding economic opportunities for Sierra Leoneans.
Mohamed Rahman Swaray said his latest appointment provides another opportunity to serve the country, this time by representing and protecting Sierra Leone’s national interests abroad.
“I see these responsibilities not as separate chapters, but as a continuum of public service: from communicating Sierra Leone’s aspirations, to advancing the dignity and productivity of its people and now to representing and protecting our national interest on the international stage,” he said.
According to the new minister, his previous responsibilities have broadened his understanding of Sierra Leone and reinforced his belief that public office must be centred on service and tangible results.
Mohamed Rahman Swaray pledged to approach the Foreign Affairs portfolio with humility, experience and determination. He also committed himself to working closely with Sierra Leone’s international partners to deepen bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
“I approach this new chapter with humility, experience and determination, ready to build on the diplomatic gains already made and work with our partners to further strengthen Sierra Leone’s voice, interests and standing in the world,” he said.
Summarizing his public-service journey, Mohamed Rahman Swaray declared: “From Information, to Labour, to Diplomacy; the portfolio may change but the mission remains the same: service to Sierra Leone.”
Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, in his farewell message, thanked God, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and those who supported him during his tenure at the Ministry.
“I have run a great race. I thank God Almighty for the grace to serve this nation and Mr. President, Julius Maada Bio, for the opportunity,” Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba stated.
He also expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the achievements recorded under his leadership and wished his successor well in his new assignment.
“Best wishes to my dear elder brother, Honourable Rahman Swaray, in his new role,” Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba added.
As Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mohamed Rahman Swaray will be responsible for directing Sierra Leone’s foreign-policy engagements, promoting its national interests and strengthening relations with countries and international organisations across Africa and the wider world.
