In a heartfelt farewell ceremony held at the Sierra Leone Chancery Hall on February 7, 2025, the staff of the Embassy of Sierra Leone, members of the Sierra Leone community in the United States, and various faith organizations gathered to honor Minister Counselor Rakie Macarthy as she concluded her diplomatic mission in Washington, D.C.
The event was marked by expressions of gratitude and reflections on her exemplary service and significant contributions to the Sierra Leonean diaspora. Mr. Victor Sheriff, the Minister Counselor at the Embassy, was among the first to speak, emphasizing the remarkable achievements of Ms. Macarthy during her tenure as the Head of Chancery.
He described her as a distinguished diplomat whose exemplary service has set a high standard for the administration of the Embassy. “The benchmarks established by Ms. Rakie Macarthy will serve as a roadmap for our future endeavors,” Mr. Sheriff stated, expressing deep appreciation for her respectful and kind demeanor towards her staff. He also took a moment to personally thank Ms. Macarthy for the support she provided him, particularly in allowing him the opportunity to pursue a second degree while serving under her leadership in the United States. “I will never forget all that you have done for me.”
Mr. Sheriff concluded, acknowledging Ms. Macarthy’s extensive professional experience gained from her previous role at the Sierra Leone High Commission in Nigeria, which greatly benefited her work in Washington, D.C. Following Mr. Sheriff, Ms. Marjorie Shaiza, the Secretary to the Head of Chancery, spoke on behalf of the local staff. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside Ms. Macarthy, highlighting the positive changes that occurred during her tenure, including salary increments for the staff. Ms. Shaiza praised Ms. Macarthy’s meticulous leadership, particularly during significant events such as the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, presidential visits, and investment conferences. “Your diligent diplomacy and seamless coordination have left an indelible mark on our mission,” she stated. Rev. Gloria Cline-Smythe also took to the podium to share her thoughts, thanking Ms. Macarthy for her unwavering support of the community, especially during challenging times.
She characterized Ms. Macarthy as a nurturing figure, a “homemaker”, and a “peacemaker,” emphasizing her ability to foster a harmonious environment devoid of acrimony. “Rakie Macarthy, you have the unwavering support of all the women in the diaspora,” Rev. Cline-Smythe affirmed, highlighting the deep respect and admiration the community holds for her. The representatives from the Winners Chapel Children’s Church also expressed their appreciation, thanking Ms. Macarthy for her contributions to the church and the children of God. Their words further underscored the widespread impact of her service within the community. Charge d’Affaires Sheku Mesali commended Ms.
Macarthy for her dedication and commitment to her country. “I enjoyed working with Rakie,” he remarked, noting her critical role in various initiatives, including the MCC COVID-19 Fundraiser aimed at supporting the fight against COVID-19 in Sierra Leone, the Education Basket Fund for constructing the School of Excellence in Sierra Leone, and advocating for the lifting of U.S. sanctions on Sierra Leone. Mr. Mesali expressed heartfelt gratitude for Ms. Macarthy’s compassion and her genuine concern for the welfare of her staff. In her response, Ms. Rakie Macarthy took a moment to reflect on her journey, thanking God for guiding her through her diplomatic tour in the United States. She expressed her heartfelt appreciation to her staff, acknowledging their support and collaboration throughout her tenure as Head of Chancery. “I am very proud of you all for the dedication and teamwork you have shown during my time here,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. Ms. Macarthy also recognized the invaluable support she received from the Sierra Leone diaspora, particularly during her loss when she lost her husband. She expressed profound gratitude for the community’s solidarity during that challenging time, which left a lasting impression on her heart. In a touching tribute, Ms. Macarthy thanked her “Chief Mum” and her elder sister, Hon. Dr. Hannah Sao Kpato Max Kaine, who attended the farewell ceremony. She credited them for being her sources of inspiration throughout her career, underscoring the importance of family support in her journey. As the ceremony concluded, it was evident that Ms. Rakie Macarthy’s tenure as Head of Chancery had left a significant legacy in the Sierra Leonean community in the United States.
The heartfelt tributes and expressions of gratitude from colleagues and community members reflected not only her professional achievements but also the personal connections she forged during her time in Washington, D.C. Her departure marks the end of an era, but her contributions will undoubtedly continue to resonate within the community she served so passionately.
