By Augustine Sankoh
Freetown, October 6, 2025: Amidu Bakarr Sankoh, poised to become Sierra Leone’s first visually impaired lawyer, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh for his instrumental support throughout his academic journey. Sankoh, who recently passed the bar examination, visited the Chief Minister to personally thank him for his role in making his dream a reality.
“This milestone is an achievement for all of us, including the Chief Minister. His contribution has made what once seemed impossible now possible,” Sankoh said during the visit. He acknowledged that while many talented individuals with disabilities have come before him, few received the kind of support he did.
Sankoh shared his aspiration to work at the Law Officers Department—not for financial gain, but to give back to the government and society that supported him. In a show of solidarity, Chief Minister Sengeh called the Attorney General and Minister of Justice during the meeting to advocate for Sankoh’s inclusion in the department. The response was positive, and Sankoh has been invited to meet the Attorney General later this week to discuss his proposal.
Further support came from Madam Satto Kobbo, Financial Secretary of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), who pledged to provide Sankoh with the full call-to-the-bar regalia. On behalf of the Radical Inclusion Movement (RIM), she presented him with a ceremonial wig, symbolizing his imminent entry into the legal profession.
Sankoh’s journey began with a plea for assistance late last year, when Princewalean alumnus Manso reached out to Augustine Sankoh to help connect Amidu with the Chief Minister. The request was relayed via WhatsApp, and the Chief Minister responded promptly, recognizing the significance of supporting a visually impaired student on the verge of making history.
Following their initial meeting, Sankoh requested essential equipment to aid his studies, including a 14-inch Apple MacBook Pro and an Olympus DM-3 Digital Recorder, costing approximately 49,000 NLe. On January 10, 2025, Chief Minister Sengeh provided $2,000 to cover the cost.
“With this equipment, I no longer need assistance to read hard copy notes,” Sankoh said, adding that he intends to repay the Chief Minister’s generosity by becoming Sierra Leone’s first visually impaired lawyer—a goal he is set to achieve this year.
The story of Amidu Bakarr Sankoh stands as a powerful testament to inclusive governance and the transformative impact of targeted support for persons with disabilities. His journey continues to inspire many across the country.