By Kelvin Roberts
Dublin, Ireland — September 10, 2025: His Excellency Chief Justice Desmond Babatunde Edwards, newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Sierra Leone to Ireland, has officially commenced his diplomatic mission following the presentation of his Letters of Credence to Irish President Michael D. Higgins.
The credential ceremony took place on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Áras an Uachtaráin, the Presidential Palace located in Phoenix Park, Dublin. The event marked a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s diplomatic history, as it also signaled the formal opening of a Sierra Leonean diplomatic station in Ireland—strengthening decades of bilateral relations between the two nations.
Following the formal presentation, Ambassador Babatunde Edwards conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from Sierra Leone’s President, Rtd. Brig. Dr. Julius Maada Bio, to President Higgins and the people of Ireland. During a meeting, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation in key areas such as development, education, and cultural exchange.
President Higgins reflected on the longstanding friendship between Sierra Leone and Ireland, and expressed optimism about future collaboration. He extended his best wishes to Ambassador Babatunde Edwards for a successful tenure.
Ambassador Babatunde Edwards was accompanied by his spouse, Mrs. Susan Edwards, along with senior embassy officials, including Head of Chancery Tamba E. Juana, Financial Attaché Philip Yomba, and Third Secretary Shamit Trawalilie.
The ceremony concluded with a formal inspection of the Irish Guard and the playing of Sierra Leone’s national anthem, symbolizing the official commencement of the ambassador’s duties.
The Embassy of Sierra Leone in Ireland expressed its gratitude to the Government and people of Ireland for their warm hospitality and reaffirmed its commitment to fostering fruitful diplomatic engagement.