By Esther Wright
In a landmark achievement, Sierra Leone has risen to the Non-Permanent category of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) after garnering overwhelming support from 188 countries in June 2023. This milestone reaches new heights as Sierra Leone assumes the chairmanship of the Council in August 2024, a role the nation last held over fifty years ago.
Under the adept leadership of His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Sierra Leone has significantly enhanced its international standing since he took office in 2018. President Bio’s dedicated efforts to reshape the nation’s image have positioned Sierra Leone as a key player in global affairs. His unwavering commitment has led to Sierra Leone’s prominent roles in multilateral organizations such as the African Union (AU) , Security Council, the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), and the Committee of Ten (C10), culminating in this historic achievement at the United Nations.
During a recent Presidential Town Hall hosted by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, President Bio expressed his pride and satisfaction with the country’s accomplishments. “I have washed my hands clean and now I’m eating with the kings. The ‘igbaleh’ is the United Nations Security Council, not an easy place to enter, but through my Government’s hard work, we received endorsement from 188 countries for Sierra Leone to sit in the UN Security Council. In August, I am proud to say Sierra Leone will chair the affairs of the UNSC,” President Bio confidently stated.
The United Nations Security Council, recognized as the most powerful organ of the United Nations, holds the critical responsibility of maintaining global peace and security. Sierra Leone’s chairmanship is a proud moment for every Sierra Leonean, symbolizing the nation’s growing influence and commitment to contributing to international peace and security.
This significant development underscores the global community’s recognition of Sierra Leone’s efforts and achievements under President Bio’s leadership. It is a testament to the nation’s progress and a beacon of hope and pride for its future.
