By eric.george@awokonewspaper.sl
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – The newly appointed Ambassador to Brussels, Phillip Bob Jusu, has reassured Sierra Leoneans of his commitment to delivering tangible results in his new role. Speaking shortly after his approval by the Sierra Leone Parliament, Jusu emphasized his focus on action rather than empty promises.
“I don’t believe in promises, but I am a man who believes in delivering results,” Ambassador Jusu stated confidently. His remarks came after a unanimous vote by Members of Parliament (MPs) on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at the House of Representatives in Freetown, confirming his appointment as the country’s Ambassador to Belgium.
Jusu expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio for nominating him to represent Sierra Leone in Brussels, a significant responsibility for any diplomat. He acknowledged that, out of millions, he had been chosen for this vital role at a crucial time in the country’s diplomatic relations.
“I thank President Bio for placing his trust in me. It is an honor to serve my country in this capacity,” Jusu said.
As he outlined his vision for his tenure, Ambassador Jusu introduced what he called the “three Rs”—the guiding principles he intends to uphold during his time in Brussels. “I will ask my team to: Respect everyone who comes to the embassy, respect the opportunity, and respect each other as staff,” he revealed.
His approach reflects a deep commitment to professionalism and service, values he emphasized will guide both his personal conduct and the operations of the Sierra Leone Embassy in Belgium.
Before his appointment, Jusu had an extensive career in international diplomacy and strategic partnerships. He served as Manager for the Africa Strategic Partnership at Google, where he played a pivotal role in fostering relationships to advance the company’s objectives across sub-Saharan Africa. His career also includes notable experience with the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), focusing on human rights and equality, as well as working on refugee resettlement in New Zealand.
Jusu, who brings over 15 years of experience on the international stage, pledged to apply his diplomatic expertise to strengthen Sierra Leone’s representation in Brussels.
“I will take my experience in diplomacy and international relations to represent Sierra Leone to the best of my ability,” he said, assuring MPs and the Sierra Leonean public of his dedication to the role.
During the parliamentary debate, opposition leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo called on Ambassador Jusu to remember that his service is to all Sierra Leoneans, regardless of political affiliation. “When you serve, know that you are not serving a political party but the people of Sierra Leone,” he said.
Kargbo urged the ambassador to treat all Sierra Leoneans equally and to serve with a sense of national duty, ensuring that the interests of the entire country are represented in Brussels.
Government Chief Whip Hon. Dixon Rogers also addressed the new ambassador, advising him to maintain the high level of professionalism that has defined his career thus far. Rogers encouraged Ambassador Jusu to leverage his diplomatic experience to benefit Sierra Leone, fostering stronger ties with Belgium and making President Bio proud of his appointment.
“Keep your head high and exhibit the professionalism you’ve shown in your past work. We expect you to help Sierra Leone derive more benefits from our relationship with Belgium,” said Hon. Rogers.
As Ambassador Jusu prepares to embark on his diplomatic journey, all eyes are on his ability to deliver on his promise of results, bolstering Sierra Leone’s international standing and fostering greater opportunities for the country on the global stage. SEG/20/12/2024
