How’d They Do? Sierra Leone’s Security Council Term
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In this new interview, Ambassador Michael Imran Kanu, the permanent representative of Sierra Leone to the UN, and Daniel Forti of the International Crisis Group, reflect on the country’s tenure in the Security Council as it soon ends. Building on the interview with Kanu by Damilola Banjo for PassBlue’s monthly Security Council Presidency column, the video conversation highlights Sierra Leone’s achievements and challenges in advancing African priorities in the Council, while Forti gives a scorecard of how the small West African country has fared as an elected member and how its two-year term could shape its future role in the UN.
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How’d They Do? Sierra Leone’s Security Council Term
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Commending Ambassador Michael Imran Kanu’s Distinguished Service at the UN Security Council
Having closely followed Ambassador Michael Imran Kanu’s diplomatic journey since 2021, I can attest that his leadership at the United Nations Security Council has been both transformative and inspiring. Throughout Sierra Leone’s two-year tenure, Ambassador Kanu exemplified the qualities of a principled statesman — intelligent, measured, and strategically grounded in Africa’s collective vision for peace and multilateral cooperation.
As he completes his Security Council term on behalf of his country and the African continent at large, Ambassador Kanu’s voice remains a decisive and unifying force. From presiding over complex deliberations to championing Africa’s priorities within the Council’s demanding agenda, his leadership has been steady, thoughtful, and deeply impactful. He demonstrated the ability to build consensus amid divergent interests — an art that requires both intellect and integrity. His stewardship advanced the discourse on peace, security, and sustainable development, reminding the world that small states can indeed exercise big leadership when guided by conviction and clarity of purpose.
This accomplishment is not only a milestone for Sierra Leone but a proud moment for the entire African continent. It underscores Africa’s readiness to engage, influence, and contribute meaningfully to global governance. Ambassador Kanu’s journey reflects the emerging generation of African diplomats whose professionalism and diplomatic acumen are helping reshape perceptions of the continent’s role within the UN system.
On behalf of all who value excellence in multilateral diplomacy, I extend profound appreciation to Ambassador Kanu for his extraordinary service, unwavering commitment, and dignified representation of Sierra Leone and Africa at large. His example will continue to inspire young diplomats and reinforce Africa’s standing in the global arena.
— Ambassador Cecilia Forgbe Wreh-McGill
Retired UN Diplomat | Former Deputy Permanent Representative of Liberia to the United Nations |
Member, Diplomats Without Borders