Emphasizing Unity and Commitment… Equals Club FBC Marks 19th Anniversary with Africana Thanksgiving Service

June 26, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In celebration of its 19th year anniversary, the Equals Club at Fourah Bay College (FBC) held its Africana Thanksgiving Service on Friday, June 21st, and Sunday, June 23rd, 2024. The events included Muslim prayers at Hamdallah Mosque on Naimbana Street, followed by a Christian Africana service at Jarwlee Lewis Memorial Church at Adelaide Street. The theme of the celebrations was: “Unity in Diversity: Reaffirming Commitments, a Key to Exploits.”

Speaking to this medium, the Egalitarian of the Equals Club at Fourah Bay College (FBC), Alpha Bilal Koroma, said that the Equals Club originated at the Milton Margai campus (Bravo) during the 2002-2003 academic year and expanded to Fourah Bay College in 2004-2005, led by two-time Liberator Sengehpor Thomas, with the help of Chiefo Josephious Sawyer and Abdulai Janneh.

Alpha Bilal Koroma stated that the extension of the Equals Club to FBC aimed to strengthen the numerical presence of the General’s Entity at FBC, serving as a breeding ground for future politicians and providing a haven for students feeling marginalized by other groups.

He added that additional reasons for the extension included providing a pathway for boys to join the Liberals Brotherhood and acting as a rival club to the Skulls Club, also formed by Liberator Sengehpor Thomas.
Egalitarian Alpha Bilal Koroma pointed out that the club’s sacred symbol is the octopus, chosen for its representation of equality. The octopus uses its eight tentacles equally, symbolizing the club’s commitment to equality and unity.

He concluded by stating that the 19th Africana Thanksgiving Service not only celebrated the club’s anniversary but also reinforced its mission of unity and commitment to social and political issues within the student community.

The 19th-anniversary celebration concluded with a luncheon at the Prince of Wales School Hall in Kingtom. During the ceremony, the anniversary cake was cut, and the Exco of the Equals Club FBC presented certificates to the participating batches of the Inter-Batch & Battalion Football Gala, which took place on Sunday, June 16th, 2024, at the SLFA Playing Field. The Equals Elders Council was crowned champion of the Batches category, while Freetown Polytechnic emerged victorious in the Battalion category.

NP (SL) Launches State-of-the-Art Mobile Tanks to Streamline Refueling Operations

June 26, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Ltd, Sierra Leone’s leading petroleum marketing company, has once again demonstrated its innovative prowess by unveiling state-of-the-art mobile fuel tanks designed to streamline refueling operations. These advanced mobile fuel tanks, each with a capacity of 10,000 liters, are housed in containers and feature sophisticated safety and dispensing technology.

Their key features include: Mobile Refueling Capability as the tanks can be easily moved around. They have Advanced Safety Systems. Equipped with explosion-proof technology, flow meters and filtration systems, these tanks ensure maximum safety with built-in fire suppression mechanisms.

In terms of Real-Time Monitoring these fuel tanks include a Tank Gauging system, which allows for monitoring of quantities that are dispensed and storage levels.

On Friday, June 21, 2024, NP (SL) Ltd made a significant move to boost the operational efficiency of local law enforcement by introducing these mobile fuel tanks for the Sierra Leone Police Force. This innovative solution aims to ensure police vehicles remain on patrol longer and can respond swiftly to emergencies. Two units were installed at the Freetown East, Ross Road Division, and West, Lumley Division.

During the launch at the Lumley Division, NP (SL) Ltd Sales Manager, Vandi Bockarie, highlighted the importance of supporting law enforcement with innovative solutions. He emphasized the company’s mission to provide easy access and a steady supply of petroleum products across the country. “We will continue to deliver on that commitment. The Police is our friend, and this endeavor is geared towards aiding their mobility in a way that is easier, swifter, and more secure,” Bockarie stated.

Representing the Inspector General of Police, Local Unit Commander Bob Mansaray expressed gratitude to NP (SL) Ltd for their remarkable initiative. He noted that this effort would significantly boost the operational readiness of the police force by alleviating the stress of acquiring fuel. “The effort is laudable, as it is meant to capacitate the Police in terms of logistics to carry out their duties. We are grateful to NP for their extensive and dependable service to the SLP. I know for certain that they will continue to maintain the strong relationship that has existed between us over the years,” Mansaray said.

The operational impact of these mobile fuel tanks is profound, providing onsite refueling services that minimize downtime and enable quicker, more effective responses to incidents and emergencies. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, NP (SL) Ltd is solidifying its position as the dominant oil company in Sierra Leone’s market, ensuring that law enforcement remains agile and well-supported.

Ministry of Health Hosts Inaugural Town Hall for Media Practitioners

June 26, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

On Monday, June 24, 2024, the Ministry of Health (MoH) held its first-ever Town Hall Event for media practitioners at the Family Kingdom Hall. Organized by the MoH Communications Unit, the event aimed to foster collaboration between the Ministry and the media to ensure that every Sierra Leonean receives the necessary healthcare.

An official, Brima, representing the Communications Unit of MoH, emphasized the deliberate effort to organize the Town Hall event, highlighting the intertwined roles of the Ministry and the media in healthcare delivery.

Khalil Kallon, Executive Secretary of the Independent Media Commission (IMC), introduced the distinguished Chairman for the event, Dr. Isaac Massaquoi, a Senior Lecturer and Community Developer. Dr. Massaquoi noted the evolving media landscape and encouraged journalists to cover the positive aspects of events.

Theo Harding, Chairman of the Guild of Newspaper Editors, stressed the crucial role of health journalism in national development. He discussed challenges such as resource constraints, social media and Government policies emphasizing the media’s role in public education and healthcare efficiency.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), expressed gratitude to MoH for building a relationship with the media. He highlighted past collaborations, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic and urged for more attention from media practitioners towards MoH activities. He criticized the bureaucratic obstacles journalists face and the preferential treatment given to bloggers, calling for transparency and mutual respect.

Joseph E. Kapuwa, Chairman of the IMC, emphasized the importance of a robust partnership between MoH and the media, upholding media ethics and fostering open dialogue.

Madam Jestina Taylor, President of WIMSAL, called for more women in health journalism, noting the unique perspective female journalists bring as caregivers. She stressed the need for better access to Government officials for reporting on health issues.

Chernor Bah, Minister of Information and Civic Education, acknowledged the challenges in the health sector and the vital role of the media in bridging the trust deficit between the public and Government officials. He urged journalists to focus on positive reporting and highlighted the importance of strong partnerships for national progress.

Dr. Austin Demby, Minister of Health, underscored the media’s role in holding the health sector accountable and outlined ongoing efforts to improve healthcare. He discussed initiatives such as universal health coverage, reducing child mortality, and ensuring health security.

The Town Hall meeting concluded with participatory sessions and debates between media stakeholders and journalists, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for future engagements.

NaCCED & NCD Wrap Up Two-Day National Citizens Dialogue on Governance and Politics

June 26, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Marking the one-year anniversary of the 2023 General Elections in Sierra Leone, the National Council for Civic Education and Democracy (NaCCED) and the National Commission for Democracy (NCD), with support from IDEA International and the European Union, successfully concluded a two-day National Citizens Dialogue on Governance and Politics. The forum, themed: “Consolidating Democracy by Promoting Inclusive Participation,” gathered stakeholders from across the country and took place on June 24th and 25th, 2024 at the Atlantic Lumley Hotel in Freetown.

In her opening remarks, the Chairperson of the National Commission for Democracy (NCD), Marian Samu, emphasized the importance of the Forum as part of NCD’s tradition to engage citizens in dialogue post-elections, highlighting the necessity of listening to citizens’ perspectives on elections and the electoral process.

She noted that the Forum marked exactly one year since the June 2023 elections, a period characterized by ongoing discussions about national unity and cohesion. The Chairperson further stressed the significance of political parties working together to strengthen Sierra Leone’s democracy.

Addressing concerns about the representation of citizens in the electoral process, she acknowledged ongoing debates but underscored the importance of collective dialogue to evaluate and improve the electoral system. Marian Samu urged participants to reflect on the issues that caused a deadlock in the 2023 elections and to work towards preventing similar occurrences in the future.

Idriss Mamoud Tarawallie, Head of IDEA International Sierra Leone, reflected on the timing of the event, noting its symbolism as it marks one year since the 2023 General Elections, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the progress made over the past year and highlighting the Forum’s focus on positive developments and inclusive dialogue.

He outlined the core areas of focus for IDEA International, emphasizing governance and democratic research, particularly the Global State of Democracy report.

Idriss Mamoud Tarawallie noted the shift from direct democracy to representative democracy and the critical role of citizen participation in governance processes. He praised the significant voter turnout and active participation of citizens in the electoral process, as reported by the Electoral Commission.

Mamoud Tarawallie highlighted Sierra Leone’s strong civil society, rooted in the country’s history, including the civil war and the subsequent introduction of democracy. He underscored the importance of citizens’ rights to participate, belong, and voice their opinions within a framework governed by the rule of law.

He emphasized the importance of constructive citizen engagement in governance and the role of institutions like NaCCED and NCD in facilitating these dialogues.

The Head of IDEA International Sierra Leone affirmed the institution’s dedication to promoting democratic values and supporting citizen engagement across Sierra Leone. He also expressed gratitude for the European Union’s financial support, which made the initiatives possible.

Giving an overview of the dialogue, Kalilu Totangi, Chairman of the National Council for Civic Education and Democracy (NaCCED), stressed the significance of focused attention and participation in the Forum, highlighting its role in strengthening democracy through citizen engagement.

He noted that since the 2023 elections, there has been considerable discussion about the state of democracy in Sierra Leone. The forum, he said, aim to provide a platform for citizens to voice their views on the electoral process and governance.

Reflecting on the success of the Strengthening Democracy Project, Kalilu Totangi praised the high voter turnout and minimal violence during the 2023 elections, attributing that success to efforts in promoting nonviolent participation among young people. However, he acknowledged the challenges that followed the elections, including political disagreements and the need for systemic review.

Kalilu Totangi also criticized the current process of electoral review, which he argued was dominated by political parties rather than the citizens themselves. He called for a more citizen-driven approach to evaluating and improving the electoral system, ensuring that all voices are heard and represented.

He ended up calling for honest an, reflected d constructive discussions to explore ways to improve the electoral and governance systems in Sierra Leone, emphasizing that the ultimate goal of Government is to enhance the well-being and security of its citizens.

In his keynote address, the Chief Electoral Commissioner, Mohamed Kenewui Konneh on a conversation with a prominent civil society advocate in West Africa, highlighting the often-overlooked role of Electoral Commissions’ post-elections.

He referenced renowned scholar, Professor James Robbins, noting that elections are the cornerstone of democracy and the primary means by which citizens engage directly in political processes, stressing the necessity for inclusivity, ensuring that all eligible citizens, including women, men, and persons with disabilities, can participate in the electoral process without barriers.

Mohamed Kenewui Konneh outlined the modern trend towards inclusivity, aimed at eliminating discrimination and fostering participation in all aspects of democracy and governance. He detailed the ECSL’s efforts to promote inclusive electoral processes, citing their strategic plan for 2024, which focuses on strengthening electoral processes for maximum performance.

The former Chief Electoral Commissioner also addressed the issue of voter perception and the role of political parties in shaping public opinion. He called for political parties to actively participate in voter education and to accurately communicate electoral policies to their supporters.

The Chief Electoral Commissioner emphasized the ECSL’s commitment to transparency and collaboration with stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the media. He highlighted the importance of accessible electoral information and extensive consultations with all relevant parties. Mohamed Kenewui Konneh stressed the need for continued efforts to foster inclusive participation in electoral processes.

The opening ceremony was followed by panel discussions on consolidating democracy by promoting inclusive participation, group discussions, plenary discussions culminating in the adoption of resolutions and a communiqué aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s democracy through inclusive participation.

Sierra Leone Bets on $150 Million Digital Hub Strategy

June 24, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Ministry of Communications, Technology and Innovation in Sierra Leone is embarking on a transformative journey by raising up to $150 million to implement a comprehensive digital innovation hub strategy. This ambitious plan, spearheaded by the Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation, Salima Bah, includes the establishment of a new Tech City aimed at fostering job creation, entrepreneurship and attracting inbound investment.

The initiative is designed to position Sierra Leone as a key innovation hub in West Africa, drawing talent from across the region and within the country. “We want to create an environment that allows entrepreneurs to thrive,” said Salima Bah.

The Tech City will be situated within a 130-acre Special Economic Zone in Tikonko, Bo District, approximately 250 kilometers east of the capital, Freetown. The zone is being tailored to support startups and innovators, leveraging the country’s small size—an advantage in rapidly adapting to changing environments.

With a GDP of just under $4 billion in 2023 and a population of 8.7 million, Sierra Leone aims to create a nimble and responsive innovation ecosystem.

Private sector support is pivotal to the digital policy push. Local telecom companies, Africell and Orange Sierra Leone, are key partners with Africell committing to building a Data Center in Tech City, accessible to third parties. Head of Africell Sierra Leone, Shadi Gerjawi, highlighted this as a significant step in supporting the initiative.

The strategy was officially unveiled at the Sierra Leone Tech Summit in Freetown, attended by 4,000 delegates. President Julius Maada Bio endorsed the plan, announcing a $50 million digital transformation project to modernize the country’s digital infrastructure and promote digital literacy.

A crucial aspect of the Tech City strategy is securing commitments from companies to establish facilities within the zone, including data centers and tech schools. Initial efforts will focus on job creation by opening business process outsourcing centers with 10,000 to 15,000 computer seats and device assembly lines.

The rise of tech hubs across Africa over the last decade and a half has largely bypassed Sierra Leone. However, consultant, Oswald Osaretin Guobadia, believes the country can achieve a digital-led transformation with the right policies. Guobadia, who previously served as a Senior Special Assistant on digital transformation to the Nigerian President, emphasizes the importance of attracting and retaining entrepreneurs and established businesses.

Challenges remain, including the need to attract startups and founders from established tech hubs like Lagos and Accra to create a critical mass that will attract investors. Additionally, there is a need to develop local talent to support these startups.

However, Minister Salima Bah and her team are addressing those challenges by improving the ease of doing business and enhancing key infrastructure, such as work visas, lower taxes, reliable internet, and steady electricity. “While the Government is working to solve the electricity problem nationwide, we can ensure reliable electricity within this designated zone,” she stated.

Sierra Leone’s Tech City strategy is a bold bet on the future, aiming to establish the country as a significant player in the digital economy.

IOM & Internal Affairs Ministry Sign Cooperation Service Agreement

June 24, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) have signed a cooperation service agreement to tackle migration challenges both within Sierra Leone and internationally. This agreement was formalized on Friday, 14th June, during a ceremony at the Ministry’s Conference room on Gloucester Street in Freetown. As part of this collaboration, the IOM donated essential office equipment to bolster the Ministry’s migration management efforts.

The donated items included computers, executive chairs, desks and a Migration Information and Data Analysis System (MIDAS). The latter will significantly enhance the Ministry’s capability to monitor and manage migration issues. The MIDAS system is particularly valuable for tracking entries at Lungi Airport and border crossings such as Gbalamuya at the Guinea border.

Christos Christodoulides, the IOM Head of Office in Sierra Leone, emphasized the importance of the agreement, highlighting the crucial role of the Ministry of Internal Affairs in migration management.

He detailed that the agreement includes cooperation on border management, voluntary return assistance for Sierra Leonean migrants and broader migration policies.

Christodoulides praised the agreement as a significant milestone for the IOM and commended Sierra Leone’s commitment to global migration initiatives, noting its status as a migration champion country and a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.

On his part, Major General (Rtd) David T.O. Taluva, Minister of Internal Affairs, underscored the importance of the collaboration, especially following the Government’s adoption of the National Migration Policy in 2022, with the IOM as the primary implementation partner. He stressed that the IOM is the principal agency relied upon by the Government to repatriate stranded Sierra Leonean migrants abroad. “Without such agreements,” he noted, “stranded migrants would face dire consequences, which is against the Government’s interests.”

Minister Taluva also called on IOM to assist with internal migration issues further pointing out that the rural-to-urban migration trend is causing environmental problems in Freetown, such as flooding due to unregulated housing developments and deforestation.

He expressed a desire for the IOM to support rural development, making these areas more attractive for residents and reducing urban migration pressures.

The Minister highlighted the successful repatriation and reintegration of over 3,000 stranded Sierra Leonean migrants with IOM’s help.

Overall, this cooperation agreement marks a significant step forward in managing migration effectively, ensuring the welfare of migrants and addressing both international and internal migration challenges.

ECOWAS-AU-UN Joint Assessment Mission Concludes Four-Day Visit to Sierra Leone

June 24, 2024

Agreement for National Unity in Sierra Leone.jpg

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Joint Assessment Mission by the international moral guarantors of the Agreement for National Unity in Sierra Leone, comprising the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union (AU), and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), has concluded its four-day mission.

The mission was co-led by H.E. Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, former Vice President of The Gambia, and H.E. Leonardo Santos Simão, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UNOWAS. The mission was facilitated by the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), with support from the African Union Commission, ECOWAS Commission and UNOWAS technical experts.

The assessment followed the anticipated conclusion of the Tripartite Committee’s report, formed by President Julius Maada Bio on December 19, 2023, as part of the eight resolutions in the Agreement for National Unity (ANU) signed on October 18, 2023, between the Government of Sierra Leone and the All People’s Congress (APC) party.

During their visit, the delegation met with President Julius Maada Bio, leaders of the APC party, senior Government officials, other political parties, national security agency representatives and the diplomatic community in Sierra Leone. Discussions focused on the implementation of the ANU resolutions, encountered challenge, and the need for ongoing political dialogue to ensure peace, stability and national cohesion.

The mission expressed concern over the spread of disinformation and misinformation on social media, which poses a threat to the collective efforts of the stakeholders in achieving the ANU’s objectives. Despite these challenges, the mission commended stakeholders for their commitment to dialogue, as evidenced by the joint statement issued on June 19, 2024, pledging to implement Resolution Three of the ANU and strengthen inclusive democracy.

The joint mission urged all parties to prioritize the full implementation of the ANU resolutions. As international moral guarantors, the mission called on Sierra Leone’s development partners to maintain their support and increase assistance to the Government and people of Sierra Leone. The mission reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the implementation of the ANU for the country’s peace, stability and national cohesion.

The mission also urged political actors and citizens to remain calm and prioritize national peace, unity, and stability over partisan interests. Additionally, the mission acknowledged stakeholders’ requests to increase the frequency of visits by international moral guarantors to ensure the smooth implementation of the ANU.

The mission expressed deep gratitude to H.E. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, and H.E. Moussa Faki, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, for facilitating the mission.

Labour Minister Condemns Unfair Treatment of Employees at Leone Rock Mining Site

June 24, 2024

By Charles Champion Conteh

In a well-attended meeting on Thursday, June 20, 2024, the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security, led by Mohamed Rado Swaray, conducted a successful visitation at the Leone Rock mining site. The Minister emphasized the purpose of the visit was to gather firsthand information on the company’s operations, welfare and working conditions, particularly in light of the new labor laws aimed at ensuring decent working conditions for all.

During his interaction with the workforce, Mohamed Rado Swaray reassured them of his ongoing support and emphasized the importance of engaging with staff across various operations. He stressed that understanding the welfare and challenges faced by employees is a key part of his mandate as Minister of Labour. He assured the workers that the meeting was confidential and that they could speak freely about their working conditions without fear of reprisal.

Workers from various sub-companies under Kingho Group expressed their gratitude to the Minister. A representative from CFRG highlighted concerns over staff terminations without valid reasons. A health department representative added that the company showed little respect for national workers, with promotions being selectively granted and local jobs being given to foreign workers. Other issues raised included discrimination, intimidation and harassment.

In response, Minister Swaray condemned violence, harassment, disrespect, discrimination and intimidation within the framework of the Employment Act 2023. He emphasized that such offenses would attract penalties and sanctions. The Minister stated firmly that any foreign staff assaulting a Sierra Leonean worker would be removed from the site and reiterated that jobs meant for Sierra Leoneans would not be given to foreign employees.

The General Manager and his team thanked the Minister for the timely visit and assured him of the company’s commitment to resolving the highlighted issues. He acknowledged that employees are ambassadors of the company and must be treated seriously. He concluded by announcing that the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security would organize a workshop to help Management understand the key provisions of the new labor laws.

Arrest Ignites Debate on Cyber Law and Free Speech in Sierra Leone

June 24, 2024

Cyber Law and Free Speech in Sierra Leone.jpg

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a case that has stirred significant debate about free expression in Sierra Leone, young lawyer Joy Precious Bayoh was released on bail last week Wednesday after being detained overnight by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Sierra Leone Police. Her arrest followed a post on social media platform X, where she questioned the legitimacy of President Julius Maada Bio.

Joy Precious Bayoh’s critical post came in response to a message from President Bio about his meeting with the newly elected President and Executive of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA). Expressing her dissatisfaction, she likened the questionable legitimacy of the SLBA leadership to that of President Bio.

According to her colleagues, armed police and CID officials initially attempted to arrest the female lawyer at her office, but she was not present. She was subsequently detained at the CID after voluntarily appearing with her colleagues and providing a statement. Authorities stated that she is being investigated for “incitement and other cyber-related offenses.”

This incident has reignited concerns about Sierra Leone’s Cyber Security and Crime law, which critics argue can be used to stifle dissent. These concerns were initially raised in a position paper by civil society groups, who warned that the law could be employed to suppress free expression, much like the repealed criminal libel law.

Prominent members of the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) have cited several instances where the cyber law has been used to target individuals, from musicians and journalists to ordinary citizens, for their online activities. They argue that the law’s application mirrors past abuses under the criminal libel law, threatening fundamental freedoms.

Despite the Government’s efforts in media development since 2018, including the Repeal of the Criminal Libel Law and other initiatives, critics say these advances are undermined if free expression is not safeguarded. The MRCG continues to monitor and document Cybersecurity cases, emphasizing the importance of protecting civic space for a thriving democracy.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), highlighted the need to ensure Freedom of Expression, which is crucial for both journalism and democracy. He called for the expansion and protection of civic space to foster a safe and free environment for all.

The arrest of Joy Precious Bayoh underscores the ongoing tension between security measures and civil liberties in Sierra Leone, prompting calls for a careful reassessment of the cyber law to prevent its misuse and protect citizens’ rights.

African Union Leaders Call for Unified Response to Sudan Crisis

June 24, 2024

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The African Union Peace and Security Council on Friday June 21, 2024 held a high-level virtual meeting to address the escalating crisis in the Republic of Sudan. The meeting was spearheaded by His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Uganda and Chairperson of the African Union Peace and Security Council for June 2024, alongside His Excellency Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, President of Mauritania and Chairperson of the African Union.

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone delivered a poignant address, emphasizing the urgent need for a collective and immediate response to the dire situation in Sudan. He underscored the severity of the ongoing conflict, which has persisted for over a year, resulting in significant civilian casualties, massive displacement and a worsening humanitarian crisis.

“Sudan is facing profound challenges that demand our immediate and unified response,” President Bio stated. “The enduring conflict has inflicted untold suffering upon the Sudanese people, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis. Hundreds of civilians have died, thousands more are injured and millions have been displaced or forced to seek refuge in neighboring countries.”

Highlighting the extensive humanitarian issues, President Bio expressed deep concern over the lack of access to healthcare and education for a significant portion of Sudan’s population, particularly children. He also condemned the reported sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls amid the conflict.

“The humanitarian situation, including food shortages, clean water, fuel, electricity, and medicines, remains dire due to the ongoing armed conflict,” he warned. “If the hostilities continue unabated, Sudan risks a complete collapse, with spillover effects on its immediate neighbors and the wider continent.”

President Bio called on the conflicting parties, the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, to cease hostilities immediately, exercise maximum restraint, and prioritize the well-being and safety of the Sudanese people. Drawing from Sierra Leone’s own experiences with conflict, he highlighted the devastating impact on a nation’s social fabric and development.

“It is with this profound understanding that we stand in solidarity with the people of Sudan. We are committed to supporting all efforts to restore peace and normalcy in Sudan,” he asserted. “We must leverage our collective wisdom, resources and influence to facilitate a peaceful resolution.”

The President urged for strong support of ongoing mediation efforts, provision of humanitarian assistance, and ensuring the voices of all Sudanese stakeholders are heard and respected. He called for collaboration with the AU and IGAD to achieve a nationwide cessation of hostilities and a sustainable ceasefire, leading to a comprehensive peace deal and the establishment of a credible constitutional Government essential for Sudan’s long-term stability and development.

As the meeting concluded, African Union leaders collectively acknowledged the gravity of the situation in Sudan and pledged to intensify their efforts to bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

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