President Dr. Julius Maada Bio joined fellow Heads of State and international leaders at the inauguration ceremony of the President-elect of the Republic of Guinea, H.E. President Mamady Doumbouya, held on Friday 17 January 2026 at the Stade Général Lansana Conté in Conakry, Guinea.
The historic ceremony marked a major political milestone for Guinea following a period of transition, as President Doumbouya was officially sworn in and assumed constitutional leadership of the country. The event attracted high-level dignitaries from across Africa and beyond, reflecting the significance of Guinea’s renewed political direction and its role in regional affairs.
In his inaugural address, President Doumbouya reaffirmed Guinea’s commitment to democratic governance and constitutional order, promising to lead with a focus on national unity, reform and inclusive development. He pledged to strengthen the country’s democratic institutions, uphold the rule of law and promote fairness and accountability in governance.
The Guinean leader also emphasized the need to expand opportunities for women and young people, describing inclusion as a national priority in his administration’s agenda. He highlighted his intention to ensure that all citizens, regardless of background, are given a voice in national decision-making and development planning.
President Doumbouya further committed to improving Guinea’s engagement with the international community and strengthening partnerships that support peace, economic growth and sustainable development. He acknowledged the importance of cooperation with regional and global actors, particularly as Guinea seeks to consolidate stability and rebuild confidence in its institutions.
The inauguration ceremony also served as a symbol of wider regional aspirations for peace, stability and cooperative political transitions, consistent with the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. Observers noted that Guinea’s transition and inauguration send an important message about regional responsibility, dialogue and the need for constitutional processes in governance.
President Bio’s presence at the ceremony underscored Sierra Leone’s support for regional solidarity and its continued commitment to strengthening democratic governance across West Africa. His participation further demonstrated Sierra Leone’s readiness to maintain strong diplomatic ties with neighbouring states and contribute to stability within the Mano River region and the broader ECOWAS sub-region.
Sierra Leone and Guinea share long-standing bilateral relations rooted in shared history, cultural ties and strong people-to-people connections. Both countries have continued to cooperate in areas including trade, cross-border security, digital connectivity and regional integration, with a mutual interest in promoting socio-economic development along their borders.
The event was attended by several Heads of State and senior representatives from Africa and beyond, including leaders from Senegal, The Gambia, Rwanda, Mauritania, Gabon, Mali, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, as well as representatives from China, the African Union, and ECOWAS.
The inauguration of President Mamady Doumbouya is expected to open a new chapter in Guinea’s governance and regional engagement, with the eyes of the sub-region focused on continued peace, democratic consolidation and inclusive growth.
