By Amin Kef (Ranger)
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially received the three-year report from the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) on Friday, January 10, 2025, at State House. The report highlights the Commission’s progress in fostering peace and national cohesion across the country.
Addressing the President and ICPNC delegation, the Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, highlighted the significance of the presentation, noting that the Report fulfills a constitutional mandate under the ICPNC Act. He acknowledged the Commission’s dedication to promoting peace and national unity within its institutional framework since its establishment.
Executive Secretary of the ICPNC, Hawa Sally Samai, presented the report titled: “Peace Commission Looking Ahead – 2025 and Beyond.” She expressed her gratitude to President Bio, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, the Board Members and colleagues for their continuous support.
Hawa Sally Samai outlined the Commission’s future priorities, including:
- Submission of the Three-Year Report to Parliament: As mandated by Section 23 of the Commissions Act of 2021, the ICPNC plans to present its report to Parliament, highlighting significant aspects of its functions.
- Summative Evaluation of the Strategic Plan: The Commission will conduct a comprehensive assessment of its current strategic plan to identify achievements, challenges and lessons learned.
- Development of a New Strategic Plan (2025-2030): Following the evaluation, a new strategic plan aligned with the national mid-term development plan will be developed and implemented.
- Organizational Reviews: The ICPNC will implement recommendations from the Management and Functional Review by the Public Sector Reforms Unit (PSRU) and the Organizational Development Assessment facilitated by the African Union with GIZ funding.
- National Conflict Fragility Studies: With funding from the World Bank, EU, UNDP and the International Growth Centre, the Commission will initiate national conflict fragility studies starting in the first quarter of 2028.
- Addressing Key Conflict Flashpoints: The ICPNC aims to resolve at least 30% of the issues identified in the fragility studies, facilitating peaceful cohabitation ahead of the 2028 elections.
- Peaceful Census Process: The Commission will collaborate with the security sector to promote peace during the census and referendum processes.
- Strengthening Regional Offices: Enhancing the capacity and operational effectiveness of regional offices will ensure timely delivery of the Commission’s mandate.
Chairman of the ICPNC, Rev. Shodankeh Johnson, also addressed the gathering. He extended season’s greetings and expressed gratitude to President Bio for his leadership and support. Rev. Shodankeh Johnson highlighted the Commission’s achievements, including the establishment of district peace coalitions, early warning and response mechanisms and successful conflict resolution initiatives.
He praised the ICPNC’s proactive strategies and the comprehensive approach to peacebuilding. He emphasized the role of women in the Commission, aligning with UN Resolution 1325. Rev. Shodankeh Johnson acknowledged the significant contributions of partners such as the African Union, ECOWAS, UNDP and local NGOs.
In his closing remarks, he underscored the importance of peace as a foundational element for national development. Rev. Shodankeh Johnson quoted notable thinkers, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and innovation in peacebuilding efforts. He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to serving Sierra Leone and making the nation a model for peace.
In his response, President Bio praised the Commission for its impactful work over the past three years, describing the establishment of the ICPNC as a deliberate and visionary step. While acknowledging initial challenges, he commended the Commission for its achievements in fostering peace and cohesion.
“The preventive nature of your work is invaluable. Conflict prevention often goes unnoticed, but its impact on national stability is profound. By addressing potential sources of conflict early and fostering dialogue, your efforts have significantly reduced tensions and created an environment conducive to development,” President Bio remarked.
He assured the Commission of his Government’s unwavering support and emphasized that peace is a prerequisite for meaningful development.
“Without peace, we cannot achieve tangible developmental progress. I urge you to continue your noble work, even when gratitude is scarce, for the sake of a peaceful Sierra Leone,” the President concluded.
The President expressed optimism about reviewing the Report and anticipates constructive input from Parliament to strengthen its recommendations.
