Senator Ledama's baby sister elected mayor in UK

Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina is ecstatic as his sister is elected mayor in the United Kingdom.

In a statement on X, Ledama expressed his joy, highlighting that Lilian Seenoi-Barr's election marks her as the first black Maasai Mayor of the City of Derry, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom.

Senator Ledama conveyed his heartfelt wishes for Seenoi-Barr's success in her new role.

“Please join me in congratulating my baby sister Councillor Lilian Seenoi for being elected as the first black - Maasai Mayor of the City of Derry, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. May the good Lord open many doors for you as you lead your people of Derry, UK,” Ledama tweeted.

Seenoi-Barr, originally from Mau Narok in Nakuru County, was re-elected last year as councillor to represent the Foyleside area of Derry and Strabane Council in Northern Ireland.

Hailing from Kenya, she previously championed gender rights issues for Maasai women, focusing on forced marriage and female genital mutilation.

Seenoi-Barr has served as a councillor for Londonderry's Foyleside ward since 2021 when she was co-opted by the SDLP.

"The people of this city have taken me into their hearts and everywhere I go I never fail to be amazed at the warmth, kindness and generosity of the people who live here," Seenoi-Barr said as quoted by Belfastlive.

Arriving in Derry as a refugee facing an uncertain future, she now feels her family has found a home, expressing pride in being a Maasai woman and a Derry girl.

“I’m looking forward to working with my party, my SDLP council colleagues and everyone on the council in my upcoming year as Mayor. I’m incredibly excited to get started and to get out meeting people and visiting the many fantastic organisations throughout our city," she said.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood expressed confidence in Seenoi-Barr's ability to represent the party effectively in her role.

Eastwood praised Lilian's contributions since moving to Derry, including her efforts in helping migrants adjust to their new home.

“We were delighted when Lilian joined the SDLP, sharing our vision of a peaceful and prosperous future for people in our city, region and island based on respect for difference and diversity,” he said.

Eastwood added that Lilian's enthusiasm, energy, and positivity make her a valued member of the SDLP family.

Lilian stated her intention to use her position to raise awareness of issues impacting families.