By Mariama Bundu
Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, His Lordship Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, has been honoured with a meritorious award for his leadership in the Judiciary and his role as Chairman of the ECOWAS Judicial Council.
The award was presented at the West Africa Heroes Award ceremony held at the Freetown International Conference Centre on 10th May 2026.
The inscription recognised his “exceptional contributions to judicial excellence, unprecedented reforms, institutional strengthening, and the advancement of the Rule of Law in Sierra Leone and West Africa.”
Delivering a lecture on the theme “Celebrating Leadership Excellence and African Innovation,” the Chief Justice said leadership in Africa must be grounded in accountability, transparency, and strong institutions that deliver real results for citizens.
He stressed that modern leadership requires respect for constitutional boundaries, consistency in decision-making, and courage to reform long-standing systems, including embracing technology in governance.
Justice Kamanda highlighted key reforms under his leadership, including the holding of Court of Appeal sittings in the provinces, the establishment of Sexual Offences Model Courts in Bo and Makeni, and the introduction of digital innovations such as virtual court services, an e-library system, and official social media platforms for the Judiciary.
He noted that the future of Africa will depend not only on its natural resources but on the strength and effectiveness of its institutions.
The keynote speaker, Professor David Richard Namwandi of Namibia, also addressed the event, reflecting on his academic journey at Fourah Bay College and highlighting leadership as a commitment to perseverance and doing what is right.
The ceremony ended with awards presented to several distinguished personalities, including senior officials from the African Development Bank Group, diplomats, government ministers, academics, and religious leaders.
