SLPPNA Remembers Hon. Helen P. Kuyembeh — A Life of Service and Leadership

Trailblazing parliamentarian and women’s leader from Sierra Leone leaves a legacy of integrity, infrastructure gains, and community empowerment.

The late Honorable Helen P. Kuyembeh served Sierra Leone with distinction—as a devoted parliamentarian, a champion for women’s leadership, and a tireless advocate for national development. Sierra Leone and her constituents mourn a remarkable woman whose passion, integrity, and public service shaped communities and inspired a generation.

A Life of Service and Leadership

As an influential member of the SLPP North America (SLPPNA) Arizona Chapter during a pivotal period in opposition, Hon. Kuyembeh crisscrossed the region to attend SLPPNA events and strengthen the party’s organizing efforts. Her presence, diligence, and commitment energized supporters and advanced the party’s growth.

In 2012, voters in Constituency 075 (Sumbuya/Lugbu Chiefdom) elected her to Parliament under the Sierra Leone People’s Party banner with an overwhelming 80.55% of the vote. She governed with a people-centered approach—championing infrastructure development, women’s empowerment, and community advancement.

Her impact reached beyond Sierra Leone. In 2017, she represented the country at the 50th Session of the United Nations Commission on Population and Development in New York, where she forcefully advocated gender equality, youth empowerment, and sustainable development.

Empowering Her Constituency

Hon. Kuyembeh drove transformative projects across her constituency. She secured funding for the 28-kilometre Nyanyaguehun–Sumbuya road, facilitated the construction of four new primary schools, and oversaw the rebuilding of key bridges that reconnected communities in Lugbu and Gbagbo Chiefdoms. Grounded in tradition and community values, she mobilized support for women’s initiatives—including the construction of numerous Bondo houses—and backed EU-funded empowerment programs. She also advanced youth development by establishing a multi-purpose community center in Sumbuya dedicated to vocational training and skills development.

During the Ebola crisis, although her constituency recorded no cases, she personally mobilized and distributed relief materials—an enduring example of compassionate, hands-on leadership.

National Impact

Hon. Kuyembeh’s national profile reflected her deep commitment to good governance and international partnership. She joined Sierra Leone’s delegation to the African, Caribbean, and Pacific–European Union Parliamentary Assembly in Brussels. In January 2025, President Julius Maada Bio appointed her Chairman of the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA)—the first woman to hold the post.

A Legacy of Integrity and Compassion

Hon. Helen P. Kuyembeh will be remembered for her humility, devotion to service, and steadfast belief in the ideals of “One Country, One People.” Her contributions to education, infrastructure, and women’s empowerment will continue to guide and inspire future generations.

May her soul rest in heaven with our Risen Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Edie P. Vandy
Regional Secretary General – SLPPNA
06OCT2025