Chief Minister Empowers Sierra Leone’s First Blind Lawyer
By Augustine Sankoh
In a heartwarming moment that underscores the power of inclusive leadership and perseverance, Amidu Bakarr Sankoh, who has successfully passed the Sierra Leone Bar Examination, has expressed deep gratitude to the Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, for his instrumental support throughout his academic journey. Amidu is set to make history as Sierra Leone’s first visually impaired lawyer, a milestone he describes as “a victory for all, not just for me.”
During a courtesy visit to the Chief Minister on Monday, Amidu reflected on his remarkable journey and the critical role Dr. Sengeh played in making his dream possible.
This milestone is an achievement for all of us, including the Chief Minister. His contribution has made what once seemed impossible now possible,” Amidu said with gratitude. “Many have come before me, some even more brilliant than I am, but they were not opportuned to get the kind of support I received during my studies.”
Amidu also expressed his desire to serve at the Law Officers Department, not primarily for financial gain, but as a way of giving back to society.
I have benefited immensely from government support throughout my academic struggle,” he stated. “Now it’s my turn to give back by providing legal services to the people of Sierra Leone.”
Moved by Amidu’s determination and humility, Chief Minister Sengeh immediately placed a call to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, advocating for Amidu to be considered for a role within the ministry. The response was overwhelmingly positive — the Attorney General invited Amidu for a meeting later this week to discuss his proposal.
In a further show of solidarity, Madam Satto Kobbo, Financial Secretary of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), pledged to provide Amidu with a complete call-to-bar regalia, including a wig presented on behalf of the Radical Inclusion Movement (RIM).
How It All Began
Late last year, I (Augustine Sankoh) was contacted by a colleague, Manso, a member of the Princewalean Class of 2006, who informed me about Amidu’s situation. He explained that Amidu, a visually impaired student recently admitted to the Sierra Leone Law School, was in desperate need of equipment to aid his studies.
We want you to help us reach the Chief Minister,” Manso said. “Amidu has gained admission to law school, but he needs special learning tools. We know how busy the Chief Minister is, but we trust you can help us reach him.”
As one of the administrators of Dr. Sengeh’s official Facebook page, I often receive numerous messages from students requesting educational assistance. While many such appeals are common, I decided to forward Amidu’s letter directly to the Chief Minister via WhatsApp.
Initially, the Chief Minister questioned what made this case unique.
There are many letters of that kind written to me,” he said. “Why is this one special?”
I replied, “Because this is a visually impaired law student in his final stage of becoming Sierra Leone’s first visually impaired lawyer and he’s also a Princewalean.”
Dr. Sengeh smiled and responded simply:
Hehe, send me his number. We will meet.”
Shortly after that exchange, I facilitated a meeting between Amidu and the Chief Minister. During the discussion, Amidu presented a list of essential tools for his studies, including a MacBook Pro 14-inch (costing approximately NLe 43,000) and an Olympus DM-3 Digital Recorder (NLe 6,000).
A Promise Fulfilled
On 10th January 2025, Chief Minister Sengeh personally provided $2,000 to help Amidu purchase the necessary equipment. With these tools, Amidu was able to independently access and process his study materials without needing constant assistance.
These devices have completely changed how I study,” Amidu said. “I no longer need others to read printed notes for me. I promised the Chief Minister that I would make him proud by becoming the first visually impaired lawyer in Sierra Leone
and that moment is finally here.”
Amidu’s story is a shining example of resilience, faith, and the transformative power of inclusive governance. His journey from a struggling student to a soon-to-be-called lawyer reflects not only his determination but also the nation’s growing commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind.
