Kenyan-born Minnesota Lawmaker Honoured at Sierra Leone Independence Event
Minnesota State Representative Huldah Momanyi Hilsley has received a Community Appreciation Award during Sierra Leone’s 65th Independence Day celebrations in Minnesota.
The award was presented by the Sierra Leone Community in Minnesota, led by Board Chairman Dr Jonathan Rose and Executive Director Karifa F. Jalloh. Organisers cited Momanyi’s efforts to promote unity among immigrant communities, encourage civic participation, and support fairness and accountability in public service.
They noted that the recognition reflects both her legislative work and her broader engagement with diverse groups across the state. Momanyi is the first Kenyan-born politician elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives. Her policy priorities include strengthening accountability systems, improving service delivery, and expanding equitable access to government programmes.
In April 2025, she was appointed by Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman to the State-County Results, Accountability, and Service Delivery Redesign Council for the 2025–2026 biennium. The council is responsible for improving county-level services, setting performance standards, and addressing inefficiencies in coordination between levels of government.
In a statement, Momanyi said the initiative aims to ensure that public services operate more effectively for residents. Her work has also extended beyond legislative duties.
Earlier this year, she commented on issues of justice and accountability following a widely shared video from Kenya showing police officers exercising restraint during an assault by a foreign national. She questioned what she described as unequal responses in law enforcement and raised concerns about fairness and equal treatment under the law.
Community leaders said her consistent focus on dialogue, institutional reform, and cross-cultural engagement informed their decision to honour her. The Sierra Leone Community in Minnesota said that the award recognises individuals who demonstrate strong leadership, service, and commitment to community progress.
