The appointment of Umaru Napoleon Koroma as Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security marked not only a new chapter in his public service career, but also the celebration of a remarkable journey shaped by hardship, determination and the sacrifices of a mother who refused to give up on her children’s future.
At the swearing-in ceremony held at State House on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, where President Dr Julius Maada Bio administered the oath of office to newly appointed Ministers and Deputy Ministers, Minister Koroma made the occasion memorable by bringing his 82-year-old mother, Haja Adama Vandy Kamara, to witness the historic moment.
For many observers, her presence symbolised the human story behind political success — a story built on years of struggle, sacrifice and hope.
Despite her age and mobility challenges, Haja Kamara attended the ceremony to see her son assume one of the highest responsibilities in government. Her journey reflects the struggles of countless Sierra Leonean parents who make personal sacrifices to secure a better future for their children.
Minister Koroma acknowledged that his achievements were deeply connected to his mother’s determination during difficult times. He recalled how she worked tirelessly to support the family, including selling kebbe, measuring and selling rice by the cup, and taking on other jobs to ensure her children remained in school.
Those sacrifices helped shape his path from Koinadugu to Kailahun, through periods of displacement in Guinea as refugees, and eventually to Freetown, where education became the foundation for his transformation.
By bringing his mother to State House, Minister Koroma turned his swearing-in ceremony into a tribute to the parents whose sacrifices often remain unseen behind the success of their children.
Her presence served as a powerful reminder that public leaders are often products of ordinary families who endure extraordinary challenges to create opportunities for the next generation.
Following the ceremony, Minister Koroma expressed appreciation to God and President Bio for the confidence placed in him to lead the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security.
“I am deeply humbled and grateful to God Almighty for the opportunity to take the Oath of Office as Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security,” he said.
He also thanked the Sierra Leone People’s Party, Parliament, his family, colleagues, supporters and citizens who supported him throughout his journey.
Describing the appointment as both an honour and responsibility, Minister Koroma pledged to serve with integrity, humility and dedication while focusing on creating decent employment opportunities, protecting workers’ rights and strengthening social-security systems.
As he begins his ministerial assignment, Umaru Napoleon Koroma’s story stands as a testimony to the power of perseverance, education and the sacrifices of parents whose dreams are fulfilled through the achievements of their children.