Lilian Seenoi-Barr: Maasai Woman Becomes Northern Ireland’s First Black Mayor

Lilian Seenoi-Barr has made history after becoming Northern Ireland’s first black mayor.

She is also the third on the island of Ireland to be a mayor.

She was inaugurated as mayor of Derry City and Strabane at a special council meeting on Monday, June 3.

Seenoi arrived in Northern Ireland 14 years ago as a refugee from Kenya.

On becoming a citizen she said it was an honour.

More than 300 people assembled inside the Guildhall to witness Seenoi accept the mayoral chain of office.

Among those in attendance were family and friends and a delegation of Kenyan political representatives.

Members from various ethnic minority groups from across the island of Ireland also attended.

Seenoi’s elder brother Narok Senator Ledama Olekina was overjoyed for her and penned a beautiful message dedicated to her.

“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 said.

Lilian Seenoi-Barr is a distinguished human rights activist, community leader, and proponent of social justice.

She is known for her substantial contributions to promoting equality and championing the rights of marginalised communities.

Seenoi-Barr was born and raised in Narok County in 1981. From a young age, she exhibited a powerful sense of fairness and a keen curiosity in helping the needy.

Seenoi-Barr’s passion for creating positive change led her to enter the political arena.

She joined the Derry City and Strabane District Council in Northern Ireland, where she became a member of the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP).

In May 2023, she achieved a significant milestone by being elected as a councillor to represent the Foyleside area.

Her election marked a historic moment as the first black person to hold this position in Northern Ireland.