Sierra Leone is a country in West Africa, on the Atlantic Ocean. It’s known for the white-sand beaches lining the Freetown Peninsula. The capital city, Freetown, commemorates the nation’s slave-trade history with the Cotton Tree landmark and King’s Yard Gate.

It is stated that “Sierra Leone has experienced substantial economic growth in recent years, although the ruinous effects of the civil war continue to be felt.”
The country is also rich in diamonds and other minerals. The trade in illicit gems, known as “blood diamonds” for their role in funding conflicts, perpetuated the civil war. The government has sought to crack down on the trade. In today’s article, I would be introducing a few of the politicians that have made their economy grow.

Siaka Stevens was the leader of Sierra Leone from 1967 to 1985, serving as Prime Minister from 1967 to 1971 and as President from 1971 to 1985. Stevens’ leadership would be characterized by patrimonial rule and self-worship, consolidating power by means of corruption and exploitation.

Alhaji Samuel Siddique Sam-Sumana was a Sierra Leonean politician who was the Vice President of Sierra Leone from September 17, 2007, to March 17, 2015. He stood as the vice-presidential candidate of the All People’s Congress (APC) in the 2007 presidential election.

Joseph Saidu Momoh served as President of Sierra Leone from November 28, 1985 to April 29, 1992. A professional soldier drawn into politics, Momoh rose from the enlisted ranks to the highest position in the Sierra Leone Military Forces (Major-General), during his presidency.

Ernest Bai Koroma is a Sierra Leonean politician who has been President of Sierra Leone since 2007.

Alhaji Ahmad Tejan Kabbah was the third President of Sierra Leone, serving from 1996 to 1997 and again from 1998 to 2007. An economist and attorney by profession, Kabbah spent many years working for the United Nations Development Programme.

These are just a few politicians that have made a large impact on their countries upbringing, be it good or bad. Look for our next piece highlighting the next country!