Lilian Seenoi-Barr becomes Northern Ireland’s first black mayor

Lilian Seenoi-Barr has been confirmed as the first black mayor of a council in Northern Ireland.

Representing the Social Democratic and Labour Party, Seenoi-Barr accepted the mayoral chain for Derry City and Strabane District from her predecessor, Patricia Logue, on Monday night, marking a historic milestone.

Originally from Kenya, the 42-year-old describes herself as both a “Maasai woman and a Derry girl.”

In her address to the council chamber, Seenoi-Barr expressed gratitude to those who traveled from Kenya for this “historic moment for Derry,” highlighting that their presence symbolizes the unity and shared pride between their communities.

“Growing up as one of 14 siblings in a Maasai village, I was raised in a home filled with love, unity, hard work, and a commitment to justice and freedom – values I bring into my service,” she shared.

“But my journey, transforming from a Maasai woman to a Derry girl, began in 2010 when I came to this city in search of safety and a better life.

“If someone had told me then that I would be sitting here today as the mayor of the north’s second city, I don’t think I, or anyone in my family, would have believed it.

“Since my arrival, Derry has embraced me, providing me with a family, a community, and now the honor of serving as your first citizen.”

Seenoi-Barr had already made history last year by becoming the first black person elected to public office in Northern Ireland.