Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, Freetown’s Mayor, Leading the Green
Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, Freetown’s first directly elected female mayor, has become a prominent figure in West African politics, navigating the complexities of Sierra Leone’s political landscape while championing environmental initiatives. Despite her international acclaim for climate work, Aki-Sawyerr faces praise and criticism on the home front. This article delves into her remarkable journey, exploring the highs and lows of her political career and the impact of her gender on perceptions and policies.
Early Life and Professional Background: Born in Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr pursued a career in finance in London after graduating with an economics degree in 1988. Shocked by the atrocities of Sierra Leone’s 11-year civil war, she co-founded a charity in the UK to aid children affected by the conflict. Her commitment to humanitarian causes extended to volunteering during the Ebola outbreak 2014, earning her an OBE from Queen Elizabeth II. Aki-Sawyerr’s return to Sierra Leone marked a turning point in her life.
Entry into Politics: The catalyst for Aki-Sawyerr’s political journey occurred in August 2017, following Sierra Leone’s worst natural disaster—a mudslide that claimed over a thousand lives. This tragic event compelled her to focus on environmental issues after she was elected Freetown’s mayor in 2018.
Climate Initiatives and Challenges: Launching the #FreetownTheTreeTown campaign in 2020, Aki-Sawyerr aimed to address environmental vulnerabilities, flooding, and coastal erosion in Freetown. Despite criticism for perceived shortcomings, such as unfulfilled promises to clean the city, Aki-Sawyerr defends her efforts, citing opposition hurdles during her first term and the need for collaboration with the ruling government.
Political Dynamics and Personal Sacrifices: Aki-Sawyerr’s political journey has not been without challenges. The documentary by BBC Africa Eye provides a glimpse into the personal cost of living in the political limelight, with footage of her and her family during the 2023 elections, showcasing both the highs and lows of Sierra Leonean politics. The inter-party rivalry and the tragic violence on election day underscore the volatile nature of Sierra Leonean politics.
Gender Dynamics and Inspirational Leadership: Returning to Sierra Leone after decades abroad, Aki-Sawyerr encountered gender-related scrutiny, with many questioning her capabilities as a woman in leadership. Undeterred, she emphasizes her professional competence and credits her father instilling confidence in her and her sisters. Aki-Sawyerr acknowledges underestimating the inspirational impact her position would have on women and girls in Sierra Leone, a realization that has become a significant aspect of her tenure.
Quotas and Women’s Empowerment: Sierra Leone has seen an increase in women in politics, partially attributed to President Julius Maada Bio’s Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act. While Aki-Sawyerr acknowledges the importance of quotas, she stresses that true empowerment must come from genuine commitment and not be perceived as mere window dressing.
Conclusion: Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr’s journey as the mayor of Freetown encapsulates the intersection of environmental advocacy, political challenges, and gender dynamics. Her resilience in the face of criticism and dedication to climate initiatives paint a nuanced picture of leadership. As Sierra Leone grapples with its political and environmental future, Aki-Sawyerr’s impact on inspiring women and girls stands as a testament to the transformative power of women in leadership roles.
