Lilian Seenoi-Barr - Ledama's Sister Makes History After Becoming Northern Ireland’s First Black Mayor


Yesterday, a Kenyan woman who made history by winning a councillor seat in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, was officially sworn in. Lilian Seenoi-Barr, sister of Senate Minority Whip Olekina Ledama, has made history as the first black mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council in Northern Ireland. 

Senator Edwin Sifuna from Nairobi and Tabitha Karanja, Senate Deputy Majority Leader, were extended invitations to attend Seenoi-Barr’s inauguration ceremony at the Guildhall in Derry on June 3, 2024. 

The Social Democratic and Labour Party expressed their confidence in Seenoi-Barr's ability to serve as an exceptional mayor for all constituents in a letter addressed to Senate Speaker Amason Kingi.


Senator Edwin Sifuna stands alongside both outgoing Mayor of Derry City, Patricia Logue, and incoming Mayor Lilian Seenoi-Barr.


"This is a reflection on Lillian's outstanding achievements as a human rights activist, her work for the entire community and her unstinting dedication to the SDLP." SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said in his letter.  

"We could not be more delighted that Lillian will also make history as the first black mayor in Nothern Ireland," he added.

She assumed the position of mayor of Derry City and Strabane during a special council session on Monday evening. 

Ms. Seenoi-Barr, who arrived in Londonderry as a refugee from Kenya 14 years ago, expressed her gratitude at being bestowed with the title of first citizen. A crowd of approximately 300 individuals gathered within the Guildhall to witness Ms. Seenoi-Barr receiving the mayoral chain of office. 

Attendees included her family and friends, a delegation of Kenyan political representatives, and members from various ethnic minority groups from across Ireland. 


Who She is...

Ma. Seenoi-Bar is Narok County Senetor Ledama Ole Kina who is also the current Senate Minority Whip.

Ms. Seenoi-Barr made history last year as the first black politician elected to any public office in Northern Ireland, a feat she achieved by retaining her seat in the Foyleside ward through victory in the 2023 election. 

Arriving in Derry in 2010 with her son Brian and being granted refugee status, she had previously worked in Kenya advocating for women and girls from the Massai tribe to challenge traditional practices like early marriage and female genital mutilation, work that carried significant risks. 

Concerned by the misconceptions and negative attitudes surrounding autism in Africa, particularly regarding her son Brian who has autism, and facing threats, Ms. Seenoi-Barr made the decision to leave Kenya. 

Her refugee experience inspired her to establish the North West Migrants Forum in 2012, a charity providing support to migrants and asylum seekers. Additionally, she played a role in organizing the Black Lives Matter protests in Guildhall Square in June 2020.



Senator Ledama with baby sister in Nairobi


Derry, also officially known as Derry/Londonderry, holds a significant place in Northern Ireland's northwest region, boasting a rich cultural heritage and a deeply rooted history.

Famed for its impeccably preserved 17th-century city walls, Derry presents a captivating blend of antiquity and modernity.

The city's remarkable walls, counted among Europe's best-preserved, offer an enchanting stroll accompanied by breathtaking views of the River Foyle and the picturesque surrounding countryside. Derry's historic center is adorned with notable landmarks such as St. Columb's Cathedral, the Guildhall, and the Tower Museum, each contributing to the compelling narrative of the city's past.

Derry is renowned for its dynamic arts community, highlighted by signature events like the annual Derry Londonderry Halloween Festival, a major Halloween extravaganza in Europe, and the Foyle Maritime Festival, drawing visitors from around the globe.

Cultural venues such as the Millennium Forum and the Nerve Centre play pivotal roles in spotlighting both local and international talent across various artistic disciplines including music, theater, and film.

Leveraging her expertise in social work, community development, and social policy, Seenoi-Barr has played a crucial role in promoting integration and fostering mutual understanding among the diverse communities of Northern Ireland.

Seenoi-Barr's involvement with local organizations has been centered on providing support to marginalized groups, championing equality, and fostering better community relations.

As a member of the SDLP (Social Democratic and Labour Party), Seenoi-Barr has been a vocal champion for racial equality, gender rights, and social inclusion.

Her leadership and unwavering commitment have garnered widespread respect and admiration, both locally and nationally.

Seenoi-Barr's historic appointment as mayor represents a significant stride forward for Derry and Strabane, showcasing the region's evolving diversity and dedication to inclusivity. Her tenure is anticipated to bring fresh insights and a revitalized emphasis on creating a more inclusive and fair society for all residents.



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