By Amin Kef-Ranger

In a proud moment for Sierra Leone, Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), was honored as one of the 100 Most Reputable Africans for 2024/2025 during a prestigious ceremony held at the Jaguar Land Rover Experience on May 15, 2025 in Sandton, South Africa.

The event, organized by Reputation Poll International in collaboration with the Global Reputation Forum and the New York African Chamber of Commerce, brought together some of the most influential personalities from across the continent. It was a night that celebrated integrity, leadership and positive impact in various sectors including governance, law, education, entrepreneurship, entertainment and advocacy.

Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara, the only Sierra Leonean honoree on the 2024/2025 list, was recognized for her unwavering dedication to justice, ethical leadership and her relentless efforts in advancing legal reform and human rights. She joins a distinguished group of change-makers, humanitarians, entrepreneurs, academics and public servants whose work continues to elevate Africa's global reputation.

Delivering a moving acceptance speech, Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara paid homage to South Africa’s historical significance and the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela:

“If you have missed out on this, may I simply announce that this is the land of Madiba; a land that has experienced the anguish of chains and the triumph of liberation,” she said. “It is a deep honor and a humbling privilege to be counted among the 100 Most Reputable Africans. I accept this recognition not just in my name, but in the name of every woman and girl who dares to lead, every young man who refuses to quit and every African who rises each morning with nothing but a dream and the will to pursue it.”

Her Excellency Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, former Deputy President of South Africa and founder of the Umlambo Foundation, delivered the keynote address, further elevating the occasion with powerful words on integrity and service.

As President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara has emerged as a formidable voice in legal advocacy, the promotion of gender equality and access to justice. Her leadership continues to inspire a new generation of African professionals committed to excellence and service.

A statement from the Sierra Leone Bar Association expressed immense pride:

“This award is not just a personal triumph for Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara but a victory for the legal profession and the people of Sierra Leone. Her inclusion in this elite group is a testament to her outstanding integrity, visibility and transformative impact.”

The 100 Most Reputable Africans award is conferred based on three key criteria: Integrity, Visibility and Impact. Honorees are carefully selected for their influence in shaping the narrative of Africa’s growth, progress and global relevance.

Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara’s track record speaks volumes. With academic credentials including an LLB, LLM and an MSc in Public Administration earned from renowned institutions around the world, she has distinguished herself as one of the most educated and competent legal minds in Sierra Leone. Her work across both the public and private sectors reflects a life committed to service and excellence.

In her speech, she encouraged fellow honorees and Africans watching from across the globe to view the moment not as a culmination, but as a call to deeper service:

“Let this recognition be fuel. Let it sharpen your vision, deepen your resolve and renew your commitment to serve with an even greater purpose. Because the spotlight isn’t the end of the work, it’s the beginning of the responsibility,” she said.

“May our reputations outlive our applause. May our legacy outshine our accolades. And may our Africa, our beautiful, boundless, beloved Africa finally stand, whole and free, in the radiant dawn of her destiny.”

Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara’s recognition is not only a personal achievement but also a national honor that underscores Sierra Leone’s growing contribution to the African renaissance. Her life and legacy stand as a beacon of hope, particularly for young women and girls aspiring to lead.

As Sierra Leone and Africa celebrate this achievement, Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara remains a symbol of ethical leadership, intellectual excellence and unstoppable courage.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/tuma-gento-kamara-named-among-100-most-reputable-africans/