By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Maryland, USA — Sierra Leone’s music industry celebrated a landmark moment as acclaimed artist Sir Wahid was awarded Music Video of the Year for his powerful and socially charged video Exiled at the Sierra Leone Music Awards 2025, held at the prestigious Hampton Conference Center in Maryland.
The ceremony, which brought together leading voices from Sierra Leone’s entertainment scene, honored both emerging talents and legendary figures. Sir Wahid’s win was met with widespread acclaim, with diaspora leader Dr. Isatu Kakay-Diallo calling on Sierra Leoneans to rally behind their artists. “Let us continue to support and embrace our creative industry, as it is a vital part of our identity and progress as a people,” she urged.
The award-winning video Exiled, released in 2024, has struck a chord with audiences for its poignant commentary on political and social issues. With lyrics like “If una keep to all una promise dem na de manifesto, una nor need for dae do dem tin ya wey dae manifest so,” Sir Wahid delivers a raw critique of unfulfilled promises and systemic challenges. The video’s cinematic quality and emotional depth have earned it widespread praise across platforms like YouTube and TikTok, sparking conversations on civic responsibility and justice.
Reflecting on the honor, Sir Wahid said, “This award means everything to me. Exiled is a story of the people, the struggles we face, and the hope we hold onto. To be recognized for this work is humbling, and I’m grateful to my fans and the Sierra Leone Music Awards for this honor.”
The Sierra Leone Music Awards, now a major cultural event in the diaspora, continues to spotlight the creativity and resilience of Sierra Leonean artists. Sir Wahid’s victory not only underscores his role as a voice for the marginalized but also highlights the growing global influence of Sierra Leonean music.
“Winning this award is not just for me,” Wahid added, “it’s for every Sierra Leonean who feels unheard, who dreams of a better future, and who believes in the power of music to inspire change.”