As his tour of duty in the United Kingdom draws to a close, Acting Head of Chancery Mr. Christopher Bockarie was on Thursday evening (06/11/2025) honoured with a warm and moving farewell by staff of the Sierra Leone High Commission (SLHC) in the UK, led by the High Commissioner His Excellency Dr. Morie Komba Manyeh.
The send-off event, both touching and memorable, marked the end of a highly productive period of service at the Mission for a calm and focused gentleman. The atmosphere was rich with goodwill, laughter, and fond recollections, punctuated by heartfelt moments as colleagues reflected on Mr. Bockarie’s professional journey and personal impact.
A measured and meticulous diplomat known for his fairness, discipline, and quiet efficiency, Mr. Bockarie has represented Sierra Leone with distinction in several countries and in various capacities. He began his just-concluded assignment at the London Mission in 2018, and now returns to Freetown to continue his service at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, where he will rejoin the team of civil servants and political leaders working to advance Sierra Leone’s diplomatic, cultural, and development interests.
In his remarks, High Commissioner Dr. Manyeh praised Mr. Bockarie for his integrity and dedication, describing him as “a good man with a good heart.” That sentiment was echoed by Deputy High Commissioner Mrs. Yvonne King Odigboh, who joined other staff members in paying glowing tributes to Mr. Bockarie’s leadership, professionalism, and humility.
“This is not a goodbye,” Dr. Manyeh said in his characteristically warm and jovial tone. “We shall soon be meeting again in Freetown.”
Aside from a lighthearted exchange about Mr. Bockarie’s unwavering support for Liverpool Football Club, which drew playful teasing from a fan of a rival club, the speeches flowed like a one-way street through a city of goodwill. To an outsider, the many glowing tributes might have sounded like the usual diplomatic niceties; but those present knew they were anything but. The words were sincere and heartfelt, capturing the genuine respect and affection Mr. Bockarie had earned during his time at the Mission.
“It was a privilege to work with you,” said one staff member. Others added, “Thank you for your leadership and mentorship,” “The kindest gentleman,” and “You taught me a lot about administration.”
Responding to the outpouring of goodwill, Mr. Bockarie thanked staff for their kindness and cooperation, expressing deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve under His Excellency Dr. Morie Manyeh, whom he described as “a man of great knowledge and extensive experience.” He also commended the Deputy High Commissioner for embodying “the disciplined resolve of a seasoned soldier and the grace of a priest.”
He encouraged staff to maintain the unity and professionalism that have defined their collective work, reminding everyone that their shared goal is to serve the best interests of Sierra Leone. “You have shown me that the Sierra Leone High Commission in the UK is truly a family, I expect that spirit to endure long after I leave here,” he said.
The evening concluded with music and dancing, a fitting celebration of camaraderie, gratitude, and faith in the continued service of our beloved country, Sierra Leone, under the farsighted leadership of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio.
Abdulai Braima
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