The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has reaffirmed that peace remains the cornerstone of sustainable development, as Sierra Leone continues to demonstrate its commitment to regional unity and cooperation during the ongoing ECOWAS Summit.
The Commission stated that Sierra Leone’s leadership continues to promote dialogue, reconciliation and collaboration as essential pillars for strengthening regional integration and fostering lasting peace across West Africa.
On Sunday, July 19, 2026, the Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, and the Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, Madam Hawa Sally Samai, met on the margins of the ECOWAS Summit, where they held cordial discussions that reflected a shared commitment to national cohesion, peace and regional cooperation. Their engagement underscored the importance of unity among national leaders in advancing reconciliation and stability in Sierra Leone.
Earlier, on Saturday, July 18, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh delivered the welcome address during the official commissioning of the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre and the ECOWAS Logistics Depot in Lungi as part of the ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit activities.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice President highlighted Sierra Leone’s remarkable transformation under the leadership of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, describing the new conference centre as a symbol of the country’s growing influence on the regional and international stage.
“The Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre is a symbol of Sierra Leone’s definitive voice in shaping global dialogue. We are today a hub for promulgating African stories, and the first story we told as we kicked off the 69th ECOWAS Summit is one of Sierra Leone’s exceptional regional leadership and innovation,” Dr. Juldeh Jalloh said.
The ICPNC noted that sustainable development cannot be achieved without peace, emphasizing that strong institutions, inclusive dialogue and national unity create the conditions necessary for investment, quality education, improved healthcare and expanded employment opportunities.
According to the Commission, its mandate remains focused on promoting peace, tolerance, reconciliation and national cohesion while supporting national efforts to strengthen democratic governance and social harmony.
The Commission further stated that as ECOWAS Member States continue working together to promote regional security, economic integration and shared prosperity, Sierra Leone remains committed to contributing meaningfully to the collective vision of a peaceful and prosperous West Africa.
The ICPNC concluded by reaffirming that peace is the foundation of national development, stressing that a peaceful Sierra Leone is indispensable to the country’s prosperity, while lasting peace across the West African sub-region remains essential for sustainable development and collective progress.
