By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Sierra Leone – March 21, 2026:The Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts (BAMPA) on Saturday hosted another edition of An Evening with KFD, led by renowned arts advocate Dr. Kitty Fadlu-Deen (KFD). The event, held at the Logie Wright Auditorium on Liverpool Street, brought together music lovers, civil society organizations, artists, and cultural enthusiasts to celebrate individuals shaping Sierra Leone’s creative landscape.
The programme, part of Dr. Fadlu-Deen’s mission to amplify creative voices, showcased prominent personalities in the arts sector while sharing the stories behind their journeys. “The programme aims to bring Sierra Leonean arts to the forefront, offering audiences an opportunity to engage with and support local talent,” Dr. Fadlu-Deen explained.
Guests included Stephan Flore, Margaret Nelson-Williams, Aminata Bockarie, Egerton Maitland, Bonnie Johnson-Williams, and Ibrahim S. Bangura. They reflected on the state of the arts in Sierra Leone, highlighting progress made but also persistent challenges such as limited institutional support, inadequate funding, weak infrastructure, and lack of cultural policy implementation.
Speakers emphasized the need for greater recognition of Sierra Leonean artists both locally and internationally, while also calling for structured training systems and professional development opportunities. Proposed solutions included increased government investment, stronger private sector partnerships, and expanded arts education and mentorship programmes.
Several guests encouraged artists to embrace digital platforms, collaboration, and entrepreneurship to strengthen visibility and competitiveness in the global creative economy. Calls for unity within the arts community were also made, stressing that collective action can enhance advocacy and attract wider support.
The evening reinforced BAMPA’s role as a leading institution in nurturing and promoting Sierra Leone’s artistic talent. One attendee, Sheku Limitless Koroma, praised the initiative: “I was blown away by Dr. Kitty’s vision. This is the kind of leadership Sierra Leone needs. I am eager to attend all of their events.”
Attendance was open to the public with a minimum donation of NLe 250, underscoring BAMPA’s commitment to accessibility while sustaining its programmes. The event was supported by Kissy Industries, City Pharmacy, Aureol Insurance Company, Pee Cee & Sons, Ariqia HR Solutions, and Activa Insurance Company, highlighting growing collaboration between the arts sector and corporate institutions.