In a defining moment for Sierra Leone’s diplomatic engagement, George Shadrack Kamanda, Diplomatic and Legal Adviser at the Permanent Mission of Sierra Leone to the United Nations, delivered a powerful address on behalf of 86 countries at the Sixth Committee (Legal). Kamanda’s statement, centered on crimes against humanity, highlighted the urgent need for collective action and legal frameworks to end impunity.
“We stand at a crossroads, facing the sobering reality that, more than 75 years after the end of World War II, many people—whether young or old, women or children—still live in conditions that fall far short of the promises made by the international community in countless UN agreements,” Kamanda said. “The time is now to act, and we must act in concert to end and prevent abhorrent acts fitting the definition of crimes against humanity.”
A Call to Strengthen International Law
Representing a cross-regional alliance that included countries from every continent, Kamanda emphasized the need for legal mechanisms to address the world’s most heinous crimes. He stressed the importance of a new convention that mirrors the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide:
“The International Community must remain steadfast and committed to finding a lasting solution to the plight of humanity by converting our collective promises to safeguarding humanity from the most serious crimes of international law through clear, comprehensive, and inclusive legal frameworks aimed at ending impunity and ensuring accountability.”
Kamanda called for the adoption of a draft resolution at the current UN session to convene a United Nations Conference of Plenipotentiaries on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity. “As contracting parties to the Charter of the United Nations, it is a clarion call to duty, to assume our collective moral and legal obligations, not because we are privileged to be here but because we owe it to humanity,” he declared.
A Personal Journey from Freetown to the Global Stage
Kamanda’s rise from Kissy Road in Freetown to representing Sierra Leone at the UN at the age of 32 is a story of perseverance, faith, and dedication. Reflecting on his journey, Kamanda posted: “From Kissy Road, Freetown, to delivering a statement on behalf of 86 member states at the United Nations—it can only be God. Grateful for the experiences and excited for more opportunities to learn, grow, and serve.”
With academic credentials from the University of Oxford, the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, and Case Western Reserve University, Kamanda brings a blend of legal expertise and diplomacy to the global stage. His advocacy extends beyond international law, as he also leads community initiatives through organizations he founded, such as Everyday Citizen and The Necessity Firm.
Global Recognition and Support
Kamanda’s speech garnered widespread praise from diplomats, global leaders, and scholars. Among them, Dr. Abdul R. Shour, MSP, PhD—a healthcare researcher and legal scholar affiliated with the Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, University of London, and the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, and an Executive Representative on the Wisconsin Governor’s Council on Domestic Abuse—expressed his admiration on social media:
“Proud to see my friend Mr. George S. Kamanda, representing Sierra Leone and speaking on behalf of 86 member states at the United Nations! His leadership in diplomacy and legal advocacy is making a real difference.”
Advocating for Constructive Dialogue
In his speech, Kamanda urged the Sixth Committee to move beyond procedural debates and engage in action-oriented dialogue:
“In the past two years, we were delighted to see members of the Sixth Committee engaged in concluding the substantive and detailed legal dialogue on the draft articles of the International Law Commission on crimes against humanity. It was a constructive experience… We encourage this spirit to continue in the Sixth Committee with a view to adopting a draft resolution in this session.”
Kamanda stressed the urgency of the matter, saying: “Time is of the essence, and we ask that delegations engage constructively, as progress can only be made through structured, constructive dialogue and engagement.”
Looking to the Future
Kamanda’s leadership at the UN underscores the growing influence of African voices in shaping global governance. As Sierra Leone seeks to expand its diplomatic reach, Kamanda’s efforts reflect a commitment to building international partnerships that foster peace and justice.
“This moment is not just about me; it’s about the collective efforts of all who believe in justice and peace. It’s a call for more young people to engage in governance, diplomacy, and service,” Kamanda said.
His statement at the Sixth Committee serves as a reminder that international cooperation is essential to addressing crimes against humanity. “Our collective quest for peace and security in all communities of the world will remain unattainable if we allow crimes against humanity to sow discord within those communities,” Kamanda warned.
A Beacon of Inspiration
Kamanda’s work highlights the importance of translating global commitments into action. His journey from Sierra Leone to the halls of the United Nations serves as an inspiration to young leaders across the world, demonstrating that education, faith, and determination can create meaningful change.
“As we continue engaging with all delegations, we hope to reach a decision on this matter in the 79th session of the General Assembly,” Kamanda concluded. “With collaboration, resilience, and faith, we can achieve meaningful change.”
Kamanda’s advocacy is not just a diplomatic achievement—it is a testament to Sierra Leone’s contributions to the global effort for justice and human dignity.
