The British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, Josephine Gauld, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief Justice’s Chambers in Freetown on 15 September 2026 to acknowledge and commend the reform agenda being implemented under the leadership of His Lordship, Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda.
The meeting enabled an in-depth exchange of views on the priorities of the judicial year 2026/27 and ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in consolidating the rule of law and the administration of justice.
In their discussions, the High Commissioner congratulated Chief Justice Kamanda on the reforms underway in the Judiciary and praised the visible progress. The key issues discussed were the Judiciary’s strategic priorities for the new year, practical support from the UK-Sierra Leone Pro Bono Network and how the United Kingdom can continue to support initiatives that expand access to justice and reinforce judicial independence.
The visit also allowed Commissioner Gauld to express her appreciation for the invitation to, and her attendance at, the recent Judicial Thanksgiving Service held at Saint George’s Cathedral in Freetown. Both dignitaries described the service as a meaningful expression of the Judiciary’s public role and a moment to reflect on the responsibilities of an independent justice system.
Chief Justice Kamanda thanked the British High Commissioner for her continued support and reiterated his commitment to reforms that improve the efficiency, transparency and fairness of the courts. He expressed appreciation for the continued partnership and technical assistance that would help improve judicial administration throughout Sierra Leone, adding that partnerships are an important part of building a resilient and effective justice sector.
This engagement reflects the continued partnership between Sierra Leone and the United Kingdom to promote a strong, accessible justice system. Both sides expressed their willingness to continue dialogue and joint efforts to improve institutional capacity, expand pro bono legal services, and uphold the rule of law in the interest of the people of Sierra Leone.
