Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone,Conakry Guinea

Guinea, Conakry

10th October, 2025

Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Republic of Guinea Presents Credentials to President Mamadi Doumbouya

On Friday 10th October, 2025 the Ambassador of the Republic of Sierra Leone to the Republic of Guinea His Excellency, Alhaji Mohammed Foday Yumkella presented his letters of credence and that of the recall of his predecessor to H.E. General Mamadi Doumbouya, President of the Republic of Guinea at the presidential lodge in Conakry.

During the presentation marking the formal accreditation in his diplomatic duties, the Ambassador conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from His Excellency, President Brigadier Rtd. Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the Government, and people of Sierra Leone to His Excellency, President Mamadi Doumbouya, the Government and People of Guinea.

The Ambassador recalled the fraternal relationship that exists between the two countries which is deeply rooted in Cultural, Traditional and Economic ties. This was exhibited in Guinea’s intervention and support during Sierra Leone‘s decade long civil war, which will never be forgotten.

Responding, President Mamadi Doumbouya warmly welcomed Ambassador Yumkella, assuring him of a total brotherly hospitality and wished him a successful tenure. He expressed the strong bond between himself and President Julius Maada Bio. More significantly, he emphasized the fact that President Bio was the first President and Head of State to visit Conakry when he took over as President in Guinea. He expressed gratitude, assuring that President Bio was always welcome to Guinea.

In his post ceremony interview, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary reiterated the long standing fraternal relations between the two countries, reaffirming his commitment to strengthening the existing ties in areas of mutual interest.

Ambassador Yumkella was accompanied to the Presidential Lodge by his Spouse Haja Fatu Yumkella, the Deputy Ambassador, Madam Fatmata Sawaneh, Head of Chancery, Madam Rakie M.B. Macarthy and Mr. Umaru Sitta Turay, the Information and Press Attaché.

Umaru Sitta Turay
Embassy of Sierra Leone
Conakry, Guinea

Guinea, Conakry

10th October, 2025

Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Republic of Guinea Presents Credentials to President Mamady Doumbouya

Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Republic of Guinea, His Excellency Alhaji Mohamed Foday Yumkella, has presented his Letters of Credence and that of the recall of his predecessor to President General Mamady Doumbouya at a colourful ceremony at the President’s Lodge in Conakry.

The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary did so on Friday 10 October and conveyed, on behalf of His Excellency, President Rtd. Brigadier Dr. Julius Maada Bio, best wishes to President Doumbouya and the people of Guinea. He wished him continued good health and success in improving the lives of his people.

In his presentation, Ambassador Yumkella recalled the long-standing relations between the two neighbouring countries which spans over a century, predating independence. He informed President Doumbouya that Sierra Leone’s connection to Guinea went beyond friendship and had become a brotherhood, emphasizing that many Sierra Leoneans and Guineans had family ties deeply rooted in the two countries predicated on the commonality of many of their ethnic groups.

The Ambassador spoke about the cultural and traditional ties, and the role Guinea played in the struggle to bring back peace to Sierra Leone which he said would never be forgotten.

He assured that President Bio was committed to strengthening the fraternal relations between the two countries and promoting the fight against corruption so as to create a conducive business atmosphere between them. He went on to say that on economic diplomacy, Sierra Leone was blessed to have Guinea as a sister country that was accommodating his compatriots.

Responding, President Doumbouya encouraged Ambassador Yumkella to feel at home. More significantly, he emphasized the fact that President Julius Maada Bio was the first leader to visit Conakry when he took over as President in Guinea. He expressed his gratitude for this, assuring that President Bio was always welcome to Guinea.
The two men held a meaningful discussion in Susu, a language the two countries share in common.
In a post-ceremony interview with the state-owned broadcaster at the Presidential State Lodge in Conakry, Ambassador Yumkella said that Sierra Leone’s historical ties with Guinea had given rise to the establishment of excellent relations between the two countries, especially in the areas of security and commerce.

He said that it remained difficult to identify a Guinean from a Sierra Leonean because of the similarities between the two peoples. His articulation in Susu impressed President Doumbouya and members of his cabinet.

He said that the government of Sierra Leone was determined to maintain internal and regional security, and that it would forever remain grateful for Guinea’s assistance in ending the war in Sierra Leone.

“As I prepare to embark on my diplomatic tour as Ambassador of your beautiful country, I am confident that I will always rely on your support and guidance to make my mission successful”, the Ambassador concluded.

He was accompanied to the President Lodge by his wife, the Deputy Ambassador Madam Fatmata Sawaneh, Head of Chancery Madam Rakie Marcarthy and Mr. Umaru Sitta Turay, the Information and Press Attaché.

Long live Guinea and Sierra Leone relations.

Umaru Sitta Turay
Information/Press Attaché
Embassy of Sierra Leone
Conakry, Guinea

JWB CERTIFIES AMB. FODAY YUMKELLA & OUTGOING HOC DR. MOHAMED K. MANSARAY

By Alhassan Spear Kamara, Editor-in-Chief, JWB

4-9-2025.

*In a graceful and dignified ceremony held at the Sierra Leone Embassy Conference Hall in Conakry, Republic of Guinea, Journalists Without Borders (JWB) officially presented Certificates of Recognition to Ambassador Foday Yumkella and outgoing Head of Chancery, Dr. Mohamed K. Mansaray, for their exceptional service, visionary leadership, and diplomatic excellence*.

*The occasion brought together embassy staff and diplomatic personnel in a reflective moment to honour two key figures in Sierra Leone's diplomatic corps. One of the high points of the event was the tribute speech by the newly appointed Head of Chancery, Madam Rakie M.B. Macarthy, who has officially taken over from Dr. Mansaray.*

*In her remarks, Madam Macarthy commended Dr. Mansaray for his professionalism, leadership, and commitment to strengthening bilateral ties between Sierra Leone and Guinea. She described his tenure as one marked by "maturity, diplomatic clarity, and strategic engagement," especially on sensitive issues such as trade, security cooperation, and the longstanding Yenga border dispute*.
*Dr. Mansaray, a seasoned diplomat, has served the nation across several postings including the Sierra Leone Embassy in Tehran, Iran , and has spent the last several years heading the chancery in Conakry where he became known for his proactive coordination of high-level bilateral meetings and consistent engagement with both Sierra Leonean nationals and Guinean counterparts.*

*The ceremony also celebrated Ambassador Foday Yumkella has presented Copies of his Letters of Credence and Recall of that of his predecessor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Integration and Guineans Abroad of the Republic of Guinea.*

*His appointment by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio is seen as a strong endorsement of his competence and record of service. Ambassador Yumkella previously served as Minister of Political and Public Affairs and as Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to The Gambia, earning wide praise for his effective leadership and ability to foster regional cooperation.*

*JWB's certification serves as a symbol of appreciation for buy both diplomats, acknowledging their dedication to national service and their role in enhancing Sierra Leone’s image on the international stage.

*DR. MANSARAY RECALLED TO FOREIGN AFFAIRS AFTER SUCCESSFUL DIPLOMATIC TENURE IN GUINEA.*
*By Alhassan Spear Kamara*
*Editor in Chief JWB*

*The Counsellor and Head of Chancery of the Sierra Leone Embassy in Conakry, Guinea, Dr. Mohamed K. Mansaray, has been officially recalled to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation following an impressive and impactful diplomatic tenure. Dr. Mansaray, a seasoned and high-profile Sierra Leonean diplomat, served diligently in Guinea during his tenure, during which he significantly enhanced Sierra Leone’s image through strategic bilateral engagements and multilateral cooperation.*

*Throughout his time in Guinea, Dr. Mansaray played a pivotal role in securing several development initiatives for Sierra Leone in key sectors such as trade, agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure.*
*Dr. Mohamed K. Mansaray has played a pivotal role in fostering strong bilateral relations between Sierra Leone and Guinea, particularly in coordinating high-level meetings during official visits by high profile Sierra Leonean delegations.*

*His diplomatic finesse and leadership were especially evident in discussions surrounding sensitive cross-border issues, including the long-standing Yenga dispute.*

*The former HOC Dr. Mansaray has played a very instrumental role in the previous Hajj programmes for Sierra Leoneans. Over the past years, he has been deeply involved in supporting this Hajj activities by coordinating the movement of Hajj goers, facilitating their entry and return from the holy land of Mecca He has also assisted with reception and reintegration processes of the entire activities.*
*In recognition of his exemplary service and commitment to diplomacy, Dr. Mansaray will be honored with the prestigious Media Leadership Award by Journalists Without Borders on Monday 2nd September 2025 at the Chancery building office in Conakry. Additionally, the National Union of Sierra Leoneans based in Conakry has announced that it will also present a special award to the seasoned diplomat for his outstanding contributions to Sierra Leone’s foreign service and his unwavering support to citizens residing in Guinea.*
*Dr. Mansaray’s legacy in Conakry stands as a testament to professionalism, patriotism, and results-driven leadership in international diplomacy.*
*Under his leadership as Head of Chancery, Sierra Leone not only strengthened ties with Guinea but also deepened bilateral relations with the 15 countries in the west Africa sub region and the Africa continent as a whole. Asia, Europe and the middle east respectively.*
*Dr. Mansaray’s tenure is also marked by the renting of an ultra-modern chancery building located in Kipe, Conakry—a milestone achievement that has been highly commended by foreign diplomats and the Sierra Leonean community in Guinea.* *He worked seamlessly with two former Ambassadors and briefly with the current Ambassador Foday Yumkella, upholding professionalism and commitment to duty at all times. He has however concluded the handing over responsibilities to his successor at the embassy.*

*It is important to note that , Dr. Mohamed K. Mansaray's diplomatic journey began in the early 2000s during his service with the UNITED NATIONS TRANSITIONAL ADMINISTRATION IN EAST TIMOR AS DISTRICT ELECTORAL OFFICER.*
*He later continued his diplomatic career at the Sierra Leone Embassy in Tehran, Iran, where he served as Second Secretary and was subsequently appointed as Head of Chancery.*

Mary E. Daschbach Charge D'affaires of the USA Embassy in Conakry paid a courtesy visit to Ambassador Mohammed Foday Yumkella

AMBASSADOR ALHAJI MOHAMMED FODAY YUMKELLA PRESENT COPIES OF HIS LETTERS OF CREDENCE AND RECALL OF HIS PREDECESSOR TO THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, AFRICAN INTEGRATION AND GUINEANS ABROAD OF THE REPUBLIC OF GUINEA

Sierra Leone’s Ambassador-Designate to the Republic of Guinea, His Excellency, Ambassador Alhaji Mohammed Foday Yumkella on 14th July, 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Integration and Guineans Abroad of the Republic of Guinea and presented copies of his Letters of Credence and Letters of Recall of his predecessor to His Excellency, Dr. Morissanda Kouyaté, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Integration and Guineans Abroad of the Republic of Guinea with senior officials of the Ministry in attendance.
The Ambassador was accompanied by the Deputy Ambassador Madam Fatmata Sawaneh, outgoing Head of Chancery, Dr. Mohamed K. Mansaray and incoming Head of Chancery, Miss Rakie M.B. Macarthy.

Welcoming the Ambassador-Designate in his office, Dr. Morissanda Kouyaté emphasized to him that he is a special Ambassador, different from other Ambassadors in Guinea. He mentioned that the relations between Sierra Leone and Guinea is not only brotherly but deeply fraternal.

He maintained that Sierra Leone and Guinea are the same country that we only have small problems between both countries. He stated that colonisation divided our land and made particular reference to a small parcel of land. Affirming that Guinea has always been a home for Sierra Leoneans, the Minister asserted if there is a small dispute for a parcel of land, we should not allow foreigners to come in and settle our dispute, rather it should be resolved amicably between the countries. He opined that the Ambassador should be a good representative in Guinea because he is a part of both countries. He applauded the Deputy Ambassador for holding the fort well as Charge D’Affaires, advising that the Ambassador works closely with her to deliver on his mandate.

In his response, the Ambassador-Designate, thanked the Minister for receiving him and conveyed warm greetings from His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio to His Excellency, General Mamadi Doumbouya and the people of the Republic of Guinea. He reiterated the statement made by His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio when he went to take leave of him at State House, that the relationship between Sierra Leone and Guinea is invaluable and that everything possible should be done to make the relationship mutually beneficial to both countries. Ambassador Yumkella was gratified to note that the Minister has already made his job simple with the assurance that all the issues are always small and never big and should be settled fraternally.

Ambassador Designate To The Republic Of Guinea Conakry Bids Farewell To Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio

State House, Freetown, Tuesday, 8 July 2025 - Ambassador-designate to the Republic of Guinea, with concurrent accreditation to Mali, Mr. Mohamed Foday Yumkellah, today bid farewell to His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio after completing all formalities and receiving his letters of credence.

In his farewell remarks, Mr. Yumkellah took the opportunity to congratulate President Bio on his election as Chairperson of the Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

He expressed gratitude to the President for his appointment and pledged his commitment to strengthening the bilateral ties between Sierra Leone and Guinea Conakry. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Ambassador Yumkellah assured that he would overcome them and seek opportunities beneficial to both countries.

“I look forward to representing you, your government, and the people of Sierra Leone,” he affirmed.

In his brief response, President Bio congratulated Mr. Yumkellah and noted that he is no stranger to the role, with high expectations to represent the country well and address challenging issues.

“My doors are always open whenever you have doubts or require clarity. I count on you to strengthen the relationship between our countries and to make significant progress in support of my new role,” the President said.