Farewell Ambassador Jongopie Siaka Stevens
Umaru S. Jah in Germany
In Sierra Leone’s diplomatic annals, Ambassador Jongopie Siaka Stevens will forever be remembered as a beacon of compassion, dedication and a faithful servant to his beloved nation.
As we bid farewell to our esteemed former Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany, we embark on a journey of remembrance, celebrating a legacy woven with kindness, diligence, and a firm commitment to his people and country.
Ambassador Stevens was not just a diplomat but a beacon of friendship and camaraderie. His laughter filled every room, and his sincere interest in people endeared him to all who interacted with him. He effortlessly fostered collaboration and mutual respect, whether engaged in serious negotiations or sharing light-hearted banter.
For nearly a decade, I worked alongside Ambassador Stevens as Information Attaché at the Sierra Leone Embassy in Germany, with accreditation to Italy and Austria. As his Information Attaché, I worked closely with Ambassador Stevens. Together, we strategised and collaborated to ensure that we achieved success in our shared responsibilities. His leadership, guidance, and solid commitment to our mission were instrumental in helping us overcome various challenges and accomplish our objectives. I will always cherish the memories of working together and the invaluable lessons he imparted to me. His warm and cordial demeanour created an environment of collaboration, where jokes and laughter were abundant, yet never at the expense of professionalism and dedication to our shared responsibilities. Despite our challenges, Ambassador Stevens exemplified a solid commitment to his duties, ensuring he approached every task diligently and determined to serve Sierra Leone with distinction.
Ambassador Stevens’ journey began in the halls of Connaught Hospital, where his passion for the medical field shone brightly. As a dedicated medical engineer, he tirelessly worked to improve healthcare access and quality for all, embodying the spirit of compassion and selflessness. His transition to the diplomatic sphere saw him continue his noble mission on a broader scale.
As Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Germany, he used his diplomatic expertise and values of empathy and cooperation to lead the Sierra Leone Mission in Germany to become a hub of innovation and progress.
One of Ambassador Stevens’ most notable achievements was his tireless advocacy for the ownership of the Sierra Leone Embassy (the chancery building) and the Ambassador’s residence by the government of Sierra Leone in Germany. Through his dedication and hard work, he secured ownership of these crucial assets, ensuring that Sierra Leone’s diplomatic presence in Germany was firmly rooted and secured for future generations. Moreover, he oversaw the renovation of the Embassy into a modern facility, a testament to his vision of excellence and efficiency in diplomatic affairs.
Thanks to the proactive efforts of individuals like Ambassador Stevens, Sierra Leone has witnessed various developmental projects in recent years. The OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) in Austria has provided substantial financial aid to support infrastructure projects such as road construction, water supply, and sanitation in critical cities like Bo, Kenema, and Makeni. These efforts have helped to improve the quality of life for the people of Sierra Leone significantly.
Ambassador Stevens has also been instrumental in boosting the country’s tourism sector. His proactive approach has helped attract visitors worldwide. Moreover, he has spearheaded a fundraising campaign in Italy to raise funds for improving the healthcare sector in Sierra Leone. His tireless efforts have made a significant impact and brought much-needed relief to the people of Sierra Leone.
During the Ebola outbreak, Ambassador Stevens played a pivotal role in mobilising support from Germany. He worked closely with organisations like the German Red Cross, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), NGOs, and friends of Sierra Leone, showcasing his firm commitment to the well-being of his fellow citizens. His efforts helped to contain the outbreak and save many lives, earning him widespread recognition and praise from the international community.
Besides his exceptional working ability, Ambassador Stevens also found time to socialise with his staff, a facet of him that I miss dearly. As I was very close to him, travelling the length and breadth of Germany, Austria, and Italy, I had the opportunity to witness his remarkable leadership and compassionate nature. Whether engaging in diplomatic engagements or informal gatherings, Ambassador Stevens exuded warmth and companionship, fostering a sense of unity and cohesion within the Embassy.
Ambassador Stevens was a diplomat and a loyal member of the All People’s Congress (APC). His passing is a significant loss to his family and friends, as well as to the APC Germany district and the party at the national level. He was a leading figure in the party and worked tirelessly to maintain peace and harmony among party members, promoting unity and inclusivity. His exceptional leadership and diplomatic skills helped to build bridges of friendship and cooperation between the APC Germany district and fostered a sense of national pride and patriotism. His absence is deeply felt, and his legacy as a peacemaker and unifier will continue to inspire future generations.
As a luminary figure in Sierra Leone’s diplomatic history, Ambassador Stevens excelled in his official duties and championed the celebration of Sierra Leone’s independence in a grand and memorable fashion. His initiative to host the festivities at the Embassy’s chancery building ensured that all Sierra Leoneans across Germany, alongside friends of Sierra Leone, including German NGOs, gathered to honour the nation’s independence with enthusiasm and pride. However, since he departed from the Embassy in 2018, the tradition of commemorating Sierra Leone’s independence in such a remarkable manner has become a thing of the past, leaving a void that resonates deeply within the Sierra Leonean community in Germany.
He epitomised decency and humility, always willing to acknowledge his shortcomings while proudly declaring himself the Ambassador for all Sierra Leoneans, regardless of political affiliation. His commitment to fostering unity and inclusivity leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those he touched, underscoring his legacy as a true statesman and beacon of national pride.
Ambassador Stevens and his wife, Mrs. Georgiana Stevens, were known for their exceptional hospitality towards officials from Sierra Leone who visited Germany. They went above and beyond to make their guests feel at home, showing genuine care and concern. Thanks to the Stevens ‘ efforts, they also extended their compassion towards their staff, who felt like a family rather than just co-workers. The couple organised birthday food and prayers, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness within the Embassy. Their exceptional care and compassion made Ambassador Stevens and his wife beloved by all.
Ambassador Stevens was a kind, charming diplomat who left a positive impression on everyone he met. He was known for his friendly and sincere nature, which made him a true gentleman and a friend to all. His quiet and unassuming manner only added to his appeal.
As we bid farewell to Ambassador Stevens, let us remember his legacy with gratitude and admiration. Though he may no longer walk among us, his spirit will forever inspire us to strive for excellence and unity in all our endeavours.
May you find eternal peace in the arms of the divine, H.E. Your presence will be deeply missed, but your memory will live on in our hearts forever.
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