Brussels, Belgium – 26th May 2025
On Monday, May 26th, Philip Bob Jusu, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador-designate to the Kingdom of Belgium, met Ambassador Aden Mohamed Dileita of the Republic of Djibouti. This meeting marked Ambassador Jusu’s first official engagement in his new role.
During the visit to the Djibouti Embassy in Brussels, Ambassador Dileita welcomed Ambassador Jusu, noting that such meetings among African ambassadors upon arrival are uncommon. He commended Ambassador Jusu’s initiative as a positive step toward greater collaboration.
Ambassador Dileita emphasised the importance of African nations working together, stating, “If we work together, Africa will thrive.” He believed a unified African missions can amplify their collective voice, increasing attention, unity, strength, and influence. “I assure you that my team and I are fully committed to cooperation and mutual support. You can count on us whenever needed,” he added.
Ambassador Dileita also pointed out that Belgium is a country where lobbying is key, and a deep understanding of the local landscape is crucial for securing support for African initiatives.
Ambassador Jusu recognised the strategic importance of meeting with his Djiboutian counterpart, noting that Djibouti is a critical African nation due to the presence of military bases from various world powers. He acknowledged that as Djibouti currently chairs the African Union Commission, both countries are intensely interested in advocating for continental issues. “Sierra Leone will be there for you,” Ambassador Jusu assured.
He also stressed the need for Djibouti’s support when required, reiterating that both countries’ primary interests should be to work toward improving Africa.
The two ambassadors also discussed migration, identifying it as a complex issue affecting all African countries, not just Europe or the Mediterranean region.
Another topic was the significant role of the diaspora in national development, and they encouraged mutual learning to leverage their respective diasporas for this purpose.
The meeting concluded with Ambassador Dileita presenting a welcome gift to Ambassador Jusu.
Ambassador Jusu was accompanied by Deputy Ambassador Mrs. Asmaa James, First Secretary Aruna Kargbo, Information Attache Betty Milton, and Policy and Research Officer Ahmed Tejan-Kabba.
Credit: Betty Milton
Information Attache
Sierra Leone Embassy
Brussels
kadiebetty@gmail.com
