Croydon Council Celebrates Sierra Leone’s Independence with Historic Flag-Raising Ceremony
On Monday, 28 April 2025, London’s Croydon Council made history by flying the national flag of Sierra Leone outside its Town Hall for the very first time, marking the country’s 64th Independence Anniversary.
The commemorative event was officiated by The Worshipful, The Civic Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Kola Agboola. Also in attendance were key dignitaries from the council, including the Statutory Deputy Executive Mayor, Councillor Lynne Hale, along with a host of distinguished guests from the Sierra Leonean community.
In his address, Mayor Agboola praised Sierra Leoneans for their perseverance and their contributions to Croydon’s cultural and civic life. “Today, as I raise this flag, I do so with humility and admiration—not only to honour Sierra Leone’s past, but to celebrate its ongoing journey toward peace and prosperity,” he said. He described the occasion as “more than a tribute to the past—it is a symbol of a shared journey towards peace, freedom, and a brighter future.”
The Mayor also highlighted the longstanding contributions of Sierra Leoneans to the borough’s development, calling the relationship between Croydon and the Sierra Leonean community “a long, successful history of partnership.” He noted that April 27th marks a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s journey—claiming the freedom to define its destiny—and added, “Though Sierra Leone has faced challenges, its incredible resilience continues to lift the country above adversity.” He concluded his speech by affirming, “It is a privilege to honour a nation whose people have demonstrated such remarkable strength and spirit,” and offered a prayer for Sierra Leone “to continue to grow in peace and prosperity, with its flag flying high—representing the hopes of all its people.”
Mr. Philip Conteh, a member of Croydon Council’s Equality, Strategy and Policy team and a former student of the guest of honour, introduced Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to the UK, H.E. Dr. Morie Manyeh. Describing him as “the personification of peace.” Mr. Conteh urged Sierra Leoneans to embrace unity and national identity. He echoed the 2025 Independence theme: “Deepening national consciousness and cohesion in a troubled world.”
In his keynote address, High Commissioner Dr. Morie Manyeh conveyed greetings from President Julius Maada Bio, the government, and the people of Sierra Leone. He thanked the Croydon Council for its warm gesture. “Croydon is more than a host; it is a true partner in our diaspora story—a space of inclusion, collaboration and community cohesion,” he said.
Dr. Manyeh reflected on the deep historical ties between the UK and Sierra Leone, recalling Freetown’s former role as a regional hub of governance and innovation in West Africa. He went on to speak about Sierra Leone’s journey to independence and praised Britain’s critical support during the civil war, as well as the ongoing bilateral cooperation in education, diplomacy, security, and development. “This is not just shared history—it is an enduring relationship built on mutual respect and democratic values,” he noted.
Marking the 64th Independence Anniversary, the High Commissioner called on Sierra Leoneans to reflect on their shared future. “Independence Day reminds us of the power of unity,” he said. “It is an occasion that calls on us to set aside our differences and come together as one people, with one purpose and one destiny.”
He emphasized that patriotism requires action: “Loving our country is not passive—it is active. It means contributing to peace, not conflict; to progress, not retrogression. It means celebrating each other’s achievements, mentoring the next generation, and protecting the dignity of our homeland at all times.”
Dr. Manyeh reminded the diaspora of its vital role, insisting, “We are not just citizens—we are ambassadors. Every professional success and every act of service reflects on the country we call home.”
Concluding his speech, the High Commissioner invited attendees to honour “the brave men and women who sacrificed so much to win Sierra Leone its independence, and those who continue to work tirelessly to preserve our unity and sustain our sovereignty—from our armed forces and civil servants, to our farmers, teachers, doctors, nurses, and other everyday heroes.”
Following the speeches, the Green, White, and Blue flag of Sierra Leone was majestically raised above the County Hall, accompanied by a rendition of the national anthem led by the newly formed Sierra United Brass Band. The occasion ended in jubilant celebration as the flag soared above Croydon Town Hall—a proud symbol of heritage, partnership, and shared hope for the future.
The event was also graced by several distinguished guests, including Mrs. Marie Manyeh, Deputy High Commissioner Yvonne King Odigboh, Reverend Julian Emmanuel Khan (CEO of Mercy Media), Madam Julie Ngobeh of Children’s Social Care, and Mr. Sallu Kanu of Croydon Council.
This historic flag-raising marks a significant moment not only for Sierra Leone, but also for Croydon—a borough known for its diversity and inclusion—further solidifying the bonds between local governance and its vibrant global community.
Abdulai Braima
Information Attaché
SLHC- London
https://www.slhc-uk.org/
