By Amin Kef Sesay
In a historic moment for Sierra Leone, the nation secured a Non-Permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on June 6, 2023, marking its return to this influential body after more than 50 years. This achievement, effective from January 1, 2024, has elevated Sierra Leone to a prominent position among the 15 members of the UNSC, the UN’s primary organ for maintaining global peace and security.
As Sierra Leone assumed the presidency of the UNSC on August 1, 2024, the significance of this event resonated across the nation’s diplomatic landscape. The role which involves leading the Council’s activities, shaping discussions on international peace and security, and representing the Council to other UN bodies and member states places Sierra Leone at the center of critical global decisions.
Behind this remarkable achievement stands Alhaji Fanday Turay, Sierra Leone’s former Permanent Representative to the United Nations who is currently the Minister of Transport and Aviation. His dedication and strategic diplomacy, along with the efforts of then Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Dr. David Francis and Permanent Representative Deputies Amara Sowa and Dr. Michael I. Kanu, were instrumental in securing Sierra Leone’s seat on the Security Council.
During the campaign for this election, Alhaji Fanday Turay and his team not only focused on Sierra Leone’s bid but also championed a broader cause for Africa. They advocated for Africa’s inclusion in the Permanent Category of the Security Council and the allocation of additional Non-Permanent seats.
Alhaji Fanday Turay’s address at the 76th United Nations General Assembly Debate highlighted these efforts. Speaking on behalf of the African Union on the topic of equitable representation in the Security Council, he emphasized the need for comprehensive reform of the UN system. The erstwhile Permanent Representative passionately argued for Africa’s rightful place in the Security Council, advocating for two Permanent seats with full rights, including the veto, and two additional Non-Permanent seats.
His advocacy culminated in a high-level debate on August 12, 2024, titled: “Addressing the Historical Injustice and Enhancing Africa’s Effective Representation in the UN Security Council,” chaired by Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio. This debate, a significant achievement for Sierra Leone, underscored the persistent efforts of Alhaji Fanday Turay and his team in ensuring that Africa’s voice is heard in the corridors of power at the United Nations.
His contributions to Sierra Leone’s diplomatic success are underpinned by his extensive experience in international relations and peacekeeping. Before his role as Permanent Representative, he served in various capacities, including Security Adviser at the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Syrian Golan and Special Assistant to the Chief of Staff at the Office of Military Affairs in the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations.
A lawyer by profession, Alhaji Fanday Turay holds Master’s Degrees in International Transport and Maritime Law from the London Metropolitan University and in International Affairs from the University of Ghana. His career has been marked by a deep commitment to justice, equity and the advancement of both Sierra Leone and the African continent.
As Sierra Leone continues to play a vital role in the UNSC, the legacy of Alhaji Fanday Turay’s leadership and diplomacy will be remembered as a cornerstone of the country’s resurgence on the global stage. His tireless efforts have not only secured a place for Sierra Leone in international decision-making but have also advanced the broader cause of equitable representation for Africa in global governance.
