In a powerful show of support from the nation’s highest judicial office, Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Komba Kamanda, has issued a compelling directive to the Human Rights Commission, urging its Directorate of Climate Change and Information Services to significantly intensify its public advocacy and campaign efforts on climate change. The Honourable Chief Justice made these remarks during a meeting with the Directorate, where he outlined the severe and immediate vulnerabilities facing the nation.
He detailed the tangible threats Sierra Leone is confronting, including dangerous sea-level rise, destructive flooding, and periods of extreme heat that have already begun to disrupt agricultural productivity and national food security, compounded by steadily increasing coastal erosion. Describing climate change as an escalating national concern. Justice Kamanda emphasized that there is an urgent and undeniable need for all stakeholders to unite in addressing the multifaceted issues stemming from the environmental crisis.
The Chief Justice offered a grave warning on the consequences of inaction, stating, “If climate change issues are not addressed, the environment will not be habitable for us.” In a move that solidifies the judiciary’s role in this national effort, he unequivocally pledged his institution’s full support to the Commission’s mission, assuring them, “You have our support, and my door is always open.”
This high-level engagement, which included the Director of Climate Change and Information Services, Abu Bakar Kamara, and his team, also served as a platform for the Chief Justice to pledge his commitment to the forthcoming National Conference on Climate Change and Human Rights. The landmark event is scheduled for the 28th and 29th of October 2025.
Director Abu Bakar Kamara explained the critical importance of the conference, noting that it is being organized by the Human Rights Commission with the primary aim of convening a diverse group of experts, policymakers, government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and community right holders. The goal is to facilitate a vital exchange of knowledge and first-hand experiences regarding the profound human rights implications of climate change impacts. Furthermore, the conference will be a strategic forum to discuss and develop ways to build strong inter-ministerial partnerships and effective networks, specifically designed to mitigate how climate change impacts the full enjoyment of fundamental human rights.
On behalf of the entire Human Rights Commission, Director Kamara extended his deepest thanks and appreciation to the Chief Justice for his groundbreaking support and firm commitment to advancing climate change and human rights-related issues, marking a pivotal moment of collaboration between the judiciary and human rights advocacy in Sierra Leone.
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