Sierra Leone’s appointed Peace Ambassador, LAJ, has arrived in France to engage in a high-stakes meeting aimed at building bridges between Sierra Leone’s music scene and the vibrant French entertainment sector.
LAJ, whose journey from local rapper to national Peace Ambassador has captured many hearts, will use the trip to explore cultural exchange and collaboration opportunities for artists, producers, and other stakeholders from both countries.
Since his appointment by President Julius Maada Bio in February 2024, LAJ has embraced his role with seriousness promoting unity, tolerance, and peaceful dialogue across communities.
This engagement in France promises to open new doors for Sierra Leone’s creatives providing access to international networks, exposure to different production and distribution models, and potential collaborations that can elevate local music onto global platforms.
As LAJ steps onto foreign soil, many in the Sierra Leonean arts community watch with optimism hoping this mission can mark the beginning of wider recognition for Salone’s talent, and a stronger cultural partnership between West Africa and Europe.
Alhaji Amadu Bah, widely known as LAJ, is one of Sierra Leone’s most influential hip-hop artists and a defining voice of the country’s modern urban music scene. Born and raised in Freetown, LAJ emerged in the early 2000s as a bold and charismatic rapper whose raw storytelling, street-conscious lyrics, and unmistakable style quickly cemented his place in the industry.
He is a founding member of the popular rap movement Red Flag Muzik (RFM), a collective that helped shape the sound of Sierra Leonean hip-hop and earned a massive youth following at home and abroad. LAJ’s music blends Krio, English, and street slang, often tackling themes of hardship, identity, survival, and social justice.
Beyond his music career, LAJ has become a prominent public figure. In 2024, he was appointed Sierra Leone’s Ambassador of Peace, a role in which he has been tasked to promote unity, community dialogue, and non-violence — especially among young people who look up to him. His appointment reflected both his influence and his commitment to rebuilding trust after years marked by controversy and public scrutiny.
Despite setbacks, LAJ remains one of the most resilient and recognizable entertainers in Sierra Leone. His comeback has inspired many, and he continues to command strong support from fans locally and within the diaspora.
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Today, along with his creative work, LAJ is using his platform to foster cultural partnerships and open doors for Sierra Leonean artists. His engagement with France’s entertainment industry is the latest step in a renewed chapter of collaboration, growth, and international outreach.
