By Amin Kef-Ranger
The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has announced a significant achievement for Sierra Leone in the recently published 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI). The country now ranks 57th globally and 5th in Sub-Saharan Africa, overtaking Ghana to become the most peaceful nation in West Africa. This remarkable progress marks a nine-place climb from 66th globally in 2024 and a regional improvement from 8th to 5th.
The Global Peace Index, compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), evaluates 163 countries using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators to assess their levels of peacefulness. Sierra Leone’s improved ranking reflects a notable turnaround from 2024, when political polarization, ethno-regional tensions and economic strain had caused a temporary drop from its previous position as the 3rd most peaceful nation in Africa in 2023.
According to the ICPNC, this upward trajectory underscores the strength and resilience of the country’s peace-building institutions and the collective efforts of its citizens. The Commission attributed the achievement to robust collaboration among state institutions, civil society organizations, security agencies, political actors and international partners.
“The 2025 Global Peace Index ranking is a testament to the steadfast commitment of the people of Sierra Leone and the unwavering work of the ICPNC and our partners to foster national unity and cohesion,” the Commission stated.
In its release, the ICPNC also congratulated His Excellency President Retired Brigadier Dr. Julius Maada Bio on his appointment as Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government. Recognized as a consistent advocate for peace and regional stability, President Bio’s leadership is expected to further bolster peace-building efforts not only in Sierra Leone but across West Africa.
“The President’s appointment is both timely and symbolic, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s emerging reputation as a beacon of peace and stability in the region,” the Commission noted.
The ICPNC expressed its deep appreciation to all stakeholders, local and international partners, security forces, media, community leaders, civil society organizations and the general public, for their contributions to the national peace agenda. Their collective resolve, the Commission emphasized, has made Sierra Leone a model of post-conflict transformation and democratic resilience.
Looking ahead, the ICPNC reaffirmed its vision of positioning Sierra Leone among the top 10 most peaceful nations globally and the most peaceful in Sub-Saharan Africa. The Commission called on all citizens to remain united and committed to sustaining the gains achieved thus far.
“With continued collaboration, we are confident that Sierra Leone can achieve even greater heights in peaceful development,” the statement concluded.
Africa’s Five Most Peaceful Countries in 2025 (Global Rankings):
- Mauritius – 26
- Botswana – 43
- Namibia – 50
- The Gambia – 55
- Sierra Leone – 57
The Global Peace Index remains the world’s most comprehensive measure of peace, offering insights into global trends, economic impacts of violence and strategies for sustainable peace.
