Freetown: Civic laying-out ceremony and book of condolence signing honoured late Honourable Justice Nyawo Finda Matturi-Jones, former Supreme Court Judge and Kono University Science and Technology Chancellor, who passed away on 4th May 2026.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, Justice Matturi-Jones was born on 28th August 1950 in Jaiama Nimikoro, Kono District. She studied law in England and was called to the Bar in 1979. Throughout her career, she became a Supreme Court Judge and was known as Kono District's first female lawyer and judge. After retiring, she served as the Chancellor of KUST, where she played a significant role in establishing and expanding the institution.
Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie from the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education paid tribute by describing Justice Matturi-Jones as a trailblazer and a principled leader. Dr. Wurie emphasized her unwavering respect for legal processes and her commitment to ensuring that university decisions adhered to legal and institutional frameworks. She commended her foundational contributions to Kono University Science and Technology and her dedication to public service, even during her illness.
First Lady Dr. Fatima Bio praised Justice Matturi-Jones for breaking barriers for women and opening doors for future generations. She highlighted her courage, resilience, and excellence as symbols that inspire young women and girls across the nation.
Prof. Tamba Jamiru, Vice Chancellor of KUST, remembered the late Chancellor as a servant leader whose humility and integrity inspired her colleagues. He recalled her active involvement in university affairs and her determination to build a lasting institution for future generations.
Robert Jones, the family spokesperson and son of Justice Matturi-Jones, described her as a loving and selfless mother who was guided by faith, service, and commitment to Sierra Leone. He noted that she was not only a mother to her children but also a mentor and support to many others.
Attorney General Alpha Sesay Esq. paid tribute to her distinguished legal career, describing her as a disciplined and principled jurist who strengthened public confidence in the judiciary. He highlighted her role as a mentor to many lawyers, particularly those representing Kono District.
Deputy Mayor of Freetown City Council, Kweku Melvin Lisk Esq., reflected on her remarkable journey from Kono District to the highest levels of the judiciary. He praised her integrity, diligence, and dedication to national service, noting that her contributions to justice, education, and national development will remain in Sierra Leone's history.