London, Sunday 1st November 2026
The Sierra Leone High Commission in the United Kingdom last evening joined the *Disabled International Foundation UK–Sierra Leone (DIFSL)* in celebrating its 26th anniversary, commending the organisation for more than two decades of humanitarian service and advocacy for persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
Representing the High Commission at the anniversary *fundraising dinner and dance* in London, Information Attaché Mr. Abdulai Braima delivered a message on behalf of the Mission, conveying warm greetings from Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, *H.E. Dr. Morie Komba Manyeh, and staff* of the High Commission.
The event celebrated 26 years of hope, dignity, empowerment, inclusion and compassion, while rallying support for the organisation’s work in education, clean water, healthcare, food security, and personal and community empowerment.
In its message, the High Commission congratulated *Dr. Imambay Kamara, Founder and President of DIFSL*, as well as the organisation’s members, partners, donors and volunteers, describing 26 years of sustained humanitarian service as “*a significant milestone*.”
The Mission noted that DIFSL’s work complements the development priorities of the Government of *H.E. President Dr. Julius Maada Bio*, particularly in human capital development, social inclusion, education, healthcare and economic empowerment, in line with efforts to expand opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The message stressed that disability inclusion should not simply be regarded as an act of charity, but as a question of rights, dignity and development.
The High Commission also highlighted the important role of the *Sierra Leonean diaspora*, encouraging Sierra Leoneans living abroad to continue transforming lives at home through their knowledge, resources, networks and compassion.
Looking ahead, the Mission called for *collective action* to move from dependency to empowerment and from temporary assistance to sustainable opportunity, particularly through education and skills training, entrepreneurship and employment.
The High Commission encouraged supporters, philanthropists and development partners to continue supporting *DIFSL* and wider efforts to advance disability inclusion, creating opportunities for persons with disabilities not only to receive assistance but also to participate, contribute and lead.
The High Commission’s message concluded by congratulating Dr. Kamara and the *DIFSL* family on their remarkable 26-year journey, expressing hope that the anniversary would open new chapters of service and impact towards a society where “*ability is recognised before disability*.”
Among the other prominent speakers at the celebration was renowned London-based Sierra Leonean film producer, director and actor Amb. *Collins Archie-Pearce*, who reflected on the importance of giving and caring, stressing that genuine giving goes far beyond financial contributions.
Drawing inspiration from the biblical message of *John 3:16*, Mr. Archie-Pearce said the true value of giving lies in the love, sincerity and compassion behind it, encouraging guests to embrace a spirit of service to others.
He also recalled his longstanding association with *DIFSL*, noting that at the organisation’s inaugural event 26 years ago, he served as co-Master of Ceremonies alongside Sierra Leone’s current First Lady, H.E. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio. Mr. Archie-Pearce said he has continued to participate in the organisation’s annual celebrations ever since.
The First Lady, now internationally recognised for her humanitarian advocacy, particularly in championing the rights and welfare of women and children, was also reported to have provided significant support to DIFSL and its humanitarian efforts over the years.
As *DIFSL* enters its 27th year, this year’s anniversary celebration served not only as a reflection on more than *a quarter-century of humanitarian service*, but also as a renewed call for government, the diaspora, civil society, development partners and individuals to work together to turn compassion into opportunity and inclusion into lasting empowerment for persons with disabilities as well as other vulnerable groups.
Abdulai M. Braima
Information Attaché
SLHC- London