By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Sierra Leone Bar Association has successfully hosted its 2026 Dinner and Awards Night, bringing together leading legal minds, government officials and members of the public in a celebration of excellence within the legal profession. The event was held in Freetown and attracted a wide range of dignitaries from across the country.
The annual gathering served as a platform to reflect on the role of the legal profession in strengthening democracy, promoting justice and upholding the rule of law in Sierra Leone. Judges, senior lawyers, young legal practitioners and representatives of key institutions were all in attendance, making the event one of the most significant on the national legal calendar.
Delivering his statement, the country’s Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh commended the Sierra Leone Bar Association for its continued commitment to justice and professional ethics. He described the Bar as a critical pillar in the country’s governance framework and urged lawyers to remain steadfast in defending the rule of law and constitutional order.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of an independent and courageous legal profession in national development. He called on members of the Bar to continue serving as the conscience of society by speaking out against injustice and ensuring equal access to justice for all citizens regardless of status or background.
The event also featured the presentation of awards to distinguished legal practitioners who have demonstrated outstanding service, professionalism and dedication to the legal profession. Award recipients were recognized for their contributions to legal practice, mentorship, human rights advocacy and public service.
Speaking on behalf of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, the president of the BAR, Madam Adama Tuma Gento Kamara highlighted the association’s efforts to promote legal education, professional discipline and public interest litigation. She reaffirmed the Bar’s commitment to working with state institutions while maintaining its independence and responsibility to hold power to account.
The dinner and awards night also provided an opportunity for networking and dialogue among members of the legal community and other stakeholders. Participants described the atmosphere as one of unity and shared purpose, noting the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenges facing the justice sector.
Members of the public who attended the event praised the Bar Association for recognizing excellence and creating space for engagement between the legal profession and the wider society. Many expressed hope that the resolutions and messages from the event would translate into stronger institutions and improved access to justice.
The 2026 Sierra Leone Bar Association Dinner and Awards Night ended on a celebratory note, reinforcing the association’s role as a key defender of the rule of law and a vital partner in Sierra Leone’s democratic journey.
