Sierra Leone’s First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio attended a farewell dinner at the Radisson Blu in Freetown, celebrating the contributions of Mr. Isaac Ahemesah, the outgoing UNAIDS Country Director for Sierra Leone and Liberia.
Her heartfelt speech highlighted Ahemesah’s remarkable service and the significant impact he had on her office and the nation.
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio praised Mr. Isaac Ahemesah’s dedication, noting, “I walked in as an ordinary woman because I’m here to celebrate a brother, a friend, a man that has made my office one of the most successful stories in this country.” Her speech underscored the personal and professional bond she shared with Ahemesah, who served as her advisor, secretary, coordinator, and confidant.
She emphasized Mr. Isaac Ahemesah’s unique approach, which diverged from the typical UN methodology. “Isaac works as an African who believes that Africans should be able to solve our own problems. When the UN is in the country, they should work with the person that delivers, making their work easier,” she asserted. She lamented the financial constraints Ahemesah faced, confidently stating that with more resources, his impact could have been even greater.
First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio recounted how Mr. Isaac Ahemesah’s expertise and resilience were critical during challenging times, particularly when the UN considered closing the UNAIDS secretariat in Sierra Leone. She intervened, advocating for Ahemesah’s continued presence, which resulted in him staying and extending his responsibilities to Liberia.
First Lady Dr. Bio highlighted Ahemesah’s leadership lessons, emphasizing teamwork, humility, and commitment over financial resources. “You’ve taught me that to lead doesn’t mean you have to be at the front. You can be at the back and still be a good leader. People will always chase a success story,” she noted.
In her closing remarks, Her Excellency expressed deep gratitude for Mr. Isaac Ahemesah’s unwavering support and profound influence. “If I’m a better person, thank you. Because you’ve moulded me to be this better person. If I am not a good person, it is your fault too because you are the one who can actually put me through and show me how to navigate.”
As Mr. Isaac Ahemesah transitions to his new role in Zambia, Sierra Leone’s First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, remains optimistic about his future success. “You will go to Zambia, and you will be a success story. Maybe the next time we’ll talk about you living in Zambia, you’ll be at the headquarters in the UN, living bigger things and having a bigger story to tell. God bless you,” she concluded, underscoring the lasting impact of his contributions to Sierra Leone.
Mr. Isaac Ahemesah’s exceptional service leaves an indelible mark on Sierra Leone. His departure signals not just an end, but a new beginning, with his legacy continuing to inspire and drive progress in the region.