Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio has expressed deep sorrow for the loss of a cherished friend and diplomat, Peter Penfold CMG OBE, who served as the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone from 1997 to 2000.
Penfold, born on February 27, who is often described as a true friend of Sierra Leone, diplomat, and advocate for peace died today, Sunday, October 1, 2023, according to family sources.
In a post shared on social media, President Bio conveyed profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to Peter Penfold’s family, friends, and the British Government.
His post reads as follows:
“It is with profound sadness that I learn of the passing today of a dear friend and brother, Peter Penfold CMG OBE, Former High Commissioner of the #UnitedKingdom to Sierra Leone (1997-2000). On behalf of the Government and the good people of Sierra Leone, I extend my deepest condolence to the family, friends and #British Government. Peter Penfold was a great friend of #SierraLeone and the consummate diplomat who went beyond the call of duty to promote democracy, peace and unity in Sierra Leone. We appreciate him for his contributions to deepening the Sierra Leone-UK relationship and the development of our nation. We remember his courage and bravery in supporting Sierra Leoneans during one of our most turbulent periods. We celebrate him for his instrumental role in coordinating the evacuation of thousands of Sierra Leoneans to safety during the unfortunate seasons of the war. Sierra Leoneans remain grateful for Peter Penfold’s strong commitment to defending democracy in our nation during his tenure as British High Commissioner. Rest in eternal peace, our dear brother and friend KOMRABAI (Paramount Chief) Peter Penfold. ?️??”
