By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a momentous achievement for Sierra Leone, First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has been elected as the President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD). The election took place on Saturday, 15th February 2025, during the 29th General Assembly of OAFLAD, held at the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio secured victory in a closely contested election against Her Excellency Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to earn a two-year mandate at the helm of the prestigious continental organization. Her Excellency Dr. Ana Dias Lourenço, First Lady of Angola, was elected as Vice President.
Following a closed-session deliberation on day four of the African Union Summit, the election results were announced, affirming Dr. Fatima Bio’s new leadership role. This marks a historic milestone, making her the first Sierra Leonean First Lady to hold the presidency of OAFLAD, a position that will amplify her longstanding advocacy for women and girls across Africa.
His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, lauded his wife’s election as a significant success for the nation and the African continent. In a congratulatory message, President Bio stated, “Your unwavering commitment to championing the rights and empowerment of women and girls is nothing short of inspiring. I am excited to see how, in this new role, you will amplify the voices of women and girls across Africa. Let’s go, Fatima!”
The official statement from OAFLAD confirmed the election results and welcomed Dr. Fatima Bio into her new role: “We are delighted to confirm the election results. Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of Sierra Leone, is the new President of OAFLAD and Her Excellency Dr. Ana Dias Lourenço, First Lady of Angola, is the Vice President.”
First Ladies from across Africa, including Her Excellency Mrs. Rachel Ruto, First Lady of the Republic of Kenya, extended their congratulations, expressing confidence in Dr. Fatima Bio’s leadership to drive OAFLAD’s vision forward.
Established in 2002 as the Organization of African First Ladies Against HIV/AIDS (OAFLA), OAFLAD has since evolved into a prominent platform advocating for women’s empowerment, maternal and child health and a broad range of development initiatives.
Dr. Fatima Bio, known for her impactful initiatives such as the Hands Off Our Girls campaign, has demonstrated a deep commitment to gender equality, education and healthcare. Her tenure at OAFLAD is expected to further strengthen the organization’s advocacy efforts, mobilize resources and foster sustainable development policies across the continent.
During her inaugural address at the 29th General Assembly, Dr. Fatima Bio expressed her appreciation for the trust placed in her leadership and her dedication to building on OAFLAD’s progress. “I began by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to the past leadership for steering this organization to its current position. Their dedication and vision have laid a strong foundation for our future endeavors,” she stated.
She further acknowledged both her supporters and skeptics, pledging to work tirelessly in fostering unity and progress. “It is essential that we stand together, united in our purpose and work hand in hand to create a brighter future for all,” she emphasized.
Dr. Fatima Bio assured African First Ladies and stakeholders that, alongside the Vice President, Her Excellency Mrs. Ana Dias Lourenço and the newly appointed steering committee, she would dedicate her tenure to strengthening OAFLAD’s influence in advancing gender equality, access to quality healthcare and sustainable social development across the continent.
Dr. Fatima Bio also honored the outgoing OAFLAD leadership by presenting certificates of recognition, acknowledging their dedication to advancing gender equality, healthcare and social development. “Their leadership has set a strong foundation for continued progress in championing the rights and well-being of women and children,” she noted.
She reaffirmed her commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation and sustainable solutions. “Through OAFLAD, we will strengthen our collective efforts to amplify the voices of women, enhance access to quality healthcare and drive meaningful policy reforms. Together, we will continue to champion a future where African women and children thrive, ensuring that no one is left behind in our pursuit of sustainable development.”
On Monday, 17th February 2025, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio and President Julius Maada Bio returned to Sierra Leone to a hero’s welcome. Thousands of jubilant citizens gathered in Freetown to celebrate the historic election victory, marking a moment of national pride. A special event was held at the Presidential Lodge, where both the First Lady and the President delivered inspiring speeches, reiterating their commitment to driving positive change in Africa.
President Bio expressed his excitement over the overwhelming support from Sierra Leoneans, stating, “This victory is not just for Fatima but for every woman and girl in Sierra Leone and across Africa. It is a testament to the power of dedication, resilience and leadership.”
As Dr. Fatima Maada Bio assumes the presidency of OAFLAD, her leadership is expected to usher in a new era of dynamic advocacy, strengthened partnerships and impactful initiatives that will improve the lives of women, children and vulnerable communities across Africa.
Sierra Leone takes great pride in this remarkable achievement, further solidifying its influence in continental affairs. Congratulations to Dr. Fatima Maada Bio on this well-deserved honor!
