By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The g7+ group of countries commenced their Senior Officials Meeting in Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown, from April 30th to May 1st, 2024, signifying a strong commitment to promoting peace, stability, and sustainable growth in regions grappling with conflict and instability.
The Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, addressed the gathering with a stirring call to action during his keynote speech, emphasizing the need for expanded engagement to tackle the fragility challenges within the sub-region. The g7+, currently under Sierra Leone’s chairmanship, brings together 20 countries that hold observer status at the United Nations. This platform is pivotal for discussing the issues faced by nations affected by conflict and fragility, especially given the current global geopolitical tensions, notably in the Sahel region.
Under the theme: “Strengthening State Capacity for Good Governance and Development,” Sierra Leone welcomed the international community to Freetown, marking a decade of its leadership within the g7+. The nation took the opportunity to showcase the progress achieved during its tenure and to seek enhanced cooperation with international bodies, including the IMF, World Bank, and the G10.
The conference agenda was focused on tackling the underlying causes of fragility, formulating strategies for recovery, fostering regional integration and stabilizing geopolitical landscapes. A significant point of advocacy was the promotion of visa-free travel for g7+ nations, deemed crucial for supporting those countries’ agendas at the UN General Assembly and various other global forums.
The event’s opening segment was enriched with insights from Madam Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of Planning and Economic Development and the g7+’s Chair, along with Dr. Helder da Costa, General Secretary of the g7+ Secretariat. Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh captivated the attendees with his keynote address, setting a proactive tone for the consequential discussions that followed.
