Kenyan Woman's Election As Mayor In Northern Ireland In UK Sparks Reactions: "Go Make Us Proud"

• Lilian Seenoi Barr said she was pleased to be elected as the mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council
• SDLP leader Calum Eastwood revealed that Seenoi had well-represented the marginalised people since her arrival in the city
• A section of UK citizens congratulated her, stating that she would make an incredible first citizen of Derry

Nancy Odindo, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings more than three years of experience covering politics, news, and feature stories across digital and print media in Kenya.

A Kenyan woman has been chosen as the next mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council in the UK.

Lilian Seenoi Barr will be the first black Mayor in Northern Ireland.

The Social Democratic and Labour Party leader Colum Eastwood commended Councillor Seenoi's qualifications, highlighting her work in various beneficial projects, particularly in supporting migrants since her arrival in Derry.

“She has become an important community activist, speaking out on behalf of those who are marginalised and at times, struggle to have their voices heard. We were delighted when Lilian joined the SDLP, sharing our vision of a peaceful and prosperous future for people in our city, region and island based on respect for difference and diversity," Eastwood added.

How did Lilian Seenoi react to her election?

While showing her appreciation, Seenoi said she was pleased that the people of Derry accommodated her ever since she moved in as a refugee.

“The people of this city have taken me into their hearts and everywhere I go I never fail to be amazed at the warmth, kindness and generosity of the people who live here.

Having initially come to Derry as a refugee facing an uncertain future, I can now truly say that my family have found their home. I am proud to be a Maasai woman and a Derry girl," she said.

How did Ireland citizens and Kenyans react?

@Kaikainaipaa said:

"Congratulations Councillor Seenoi, May God guide her in her new leadership role."

@AlexKane221b commented:

"You’re right to be very proud of her. I shared a panel with her and @SorchaEastwood and @alaninbelfast a couple of years ago on the subject of ‘home’ and she was wonderful. And a great asset to local politics here."

@garymckeown observed:

"Congratulations to @Lseenoi who'll be a fantastic Mayor of Derry and Strabane! She's a fearless and passionate activist and advocate and will provide a strong voice for the North-West and communities across the North. Good luck ."

@BrianTierney09 tweeted:

"These people couldn’t lace @Lseenoi boots. She will show them what she has to offer our City and District as Mayor and why we are lucky to have her. Solidarity with my colleague, who will make a top-class first citizen."

@JasonBunting27 tweeted:

"Brilliant to see the tireless campaigning and advocacy of @Lseenoi recognised in this way. She will be an incredible first citizen of Derry ."

@epudha commented:

"Well done. You will also be elected Narok governor and future Kenya president if you don't let your guard down."

@pauloguna1 said:

"Special congratulations to our hero..may God give her wisdom as she takes up this great and noble course."

@Immortal_Melton said:

"Wooow wishing her great things. Go make us proud dear ."

Kenyan man working in US says he's tired

Meanwhile, a Kenyan man who has worked in the united states for 13 years revealed his plans to return to the country.

Despite earning a significant salary and being in good employment, the man disclosed that he was not satisfied with how he was spending his time.

He confessed to quitting his job in December to pursue entrepreneurship that would offer him the freedom to prioritise what truly matters to him.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.

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Lilian Seenoi. She has been elected as the mayor of Derry city.

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