By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, joined leaders from 55 Commonwealth countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific and the Americas for the opening ceremony of the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) at the Tuanaimato Conference Centre. The gathering, hosted for the first time in Samoa, was marked by a strong call to action on issues ranging from climate change to global inequality.
In her welcoming address, Samoan Prime Minister Hon. Afioga Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa highlighted the significance of hosting CHOGM on Samoan soil, emphasizing the challenges her island nation faces due to climate change. “Our island is young and resilient, but climate change remains an urgent and existential threat,” she stated, urging leaders to prioritize environmental solutions that directly impact island nations like Samoa.
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, The Right Honourable Patricia Scotland KC, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the shared struggles of Commonwealth nations, from climate change and rising energy costs to the ongoing global conflicts. She praised the Commonwealth’s commitment to practical support across nations, noting the increase in inter-Commonwealth trade and investment, which she said reflects a united effort to ensure no nation is left behind.
Addressing the assembly, His Majesty King Charles III described the Commonwealth as a “family of equals,” stressing the importance of mutual respect and innovation to tackle inequality. He acknowledged the historical complexities within the Commonwealth, emphasizing that recognizing and addressing past injustices was key to building a fairer future. King Charles highlighted the need for equitable access to education, healthcare and environmental resilience as fundamental rights for all.
Outgoing CHOGM Chair, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, also called for stronger climate policies, particularly for vulnerable regions. Noting that small islands and nations across Africa and Asia are disproportionately affected by rising temperatures, he urged leaders to take decisive action through public-private partnerships and investments in sustainable practices.
President Bio’s presence at the CHOGM followed his participation as a panelist at the Commonwealth Business Forum 2024, where he joined discussions on advancing connectivity and technology in Sierra Leone. The panel, titled: “Connecting the Commonwealth,” included prominent figures such as Lord Maryland of Odstock, Chair of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council and Lauren Dreyer, Vice President of Starlink.
Speaking at the forum, President Bio underscored the transformative role of technology in Sierra Leone’s development strategy, particularly its potential in tackling corruption and enhancing education, healthcare and agriculture. “Our Government views technology as a fundamental tool to reduce cash transactions, improve service delivery and foster transparency,” he stated, sharing insights into Sierra Leone’s progress in extending fiber optic networks to nearly all districts.
President Bio also acknowledged the positive impact of Starlink in Sierra Leone, describing it as a “revolutionary tool” that has improved internet connectivity nationwide. He expressed optimism that, with Starlink’s expansion, Sierra Leone would soon be fully connected to the global digital landscape.
Lauren Dreyer, Starlink’s Vice President, thanked President Bio’s Government for welcoming their services, which aim to empower communities through accessible internet solutions. “We believe in the power of connectivity to drive individual and community empowerment,” Lauren Dreyer remarked, highlighting Starlink’s commitment to expanding operations across Commonwealth countries.
Moderator Richard Griffiths commended President Bio’s forward-thinking approach to digital transformation, recognizing Sierra Leone’s steps in shifting from traditional fiber networks to Starlink’s satellite technology, which promises greater inclusivity and transparency.
As CHOGM continues in Samoa, discussions on the crucial issues of climate action, sustainable development and digital transformation remain high on the agenda, with leaders like President Bio contributing to a shared vision for a more connected and resilient Commonwealth.
