By Wiseman Dee
Born in a diamond-mining region in Eastern Sierra Leone, Ambassador Soulay B Daramy studied Politics and Philosophy at Fourah Bay Collage, University of Sierra Leone and joined the Civil Service in early 70s.
He pursued graduate studies in International Relations and Economic Development in Netherlands, Sweden and United Kingdom.
Ambassador Soulay B. Daramy is among the recent recipient of the Public Service Award 2026 for outstanding dedication, exemplary leadership, integrity and exceptional contribution to the advancement of the Public Service in Sierra Leone.
According to the citation, “Ambassador Daramy’s commitment to excellence and national development is deeply appreciated and celebrated.”
He received the award during the United Nations World Public Day Celebration 2026 in Freetown, Sierra Leone presented by the Ministry of Public Administration and Political Affairs, Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone.
He rose through the ranks and became Permanent Secretary, (Director General) in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Corporation in Sierra Leone. He was State Chief Protocol in the Office of the President for over a decade. He served in Sierra Leone Missions in London, England and Tehran, Iran. He was posted to Banjul, The Gambia, and Guinea-Bissau as Ambassador and Head of Mission in 2014. He is currently Executive Director, Foreign Service Academy Freetown.
Ambassador Daramy is a qualified rough diamond valuer. He is a Justice of the Peace, a keen sportsman, and Teacher with extensive travel experience.
Ambassador Daramy, a seasoned Diplomat and a Certified Cooperate Etiquette and International Protocol Consultant, has published a book on protocol.
“All Protocols Observed- A Handbook of Protocol Practices and Procedures.”
He speaks fluent Swedish and other Scandinavian Languages. He is married to Afiju and they have several children and eleven grandchildren.
Former Chief of Protocol – Ministry of Foreign Affairs Freetown. Sierra Leone.
Former Head of Chancery, Sierra Leone Embassy, Tehran Iran
Former Minister-Counselor, Sierra Leone High Commission London
Twice Former State Chief of Protocol – Office of the President Sierra Leone.
Former Director-General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation
Former Sierra Leone High Commissioner to the Gambia and Ambassador to Guinea Bissau
Currently Executive Director – Foreign Service Academy Freetown. Sierra Leone.