Chief Minister Sengeh Reaffirms Sierra Leone’s Commitment to Peace at National Town Hall

At the recently concluded National Town Hall on Peace, Security, and National Cohesion, organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education in partnership with the UN Foundation, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh delivered a compelling message about Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to fostering peace and national unity. The event, held on August 27, 2024, at the New Brookfields Hotel, brought together a diverse group of key stakeholders, government officials, and civil society members to engage in a critical dialogue about the future of peace and security in Sierra Leone.

A Call to Action: Addressing Present Realities

Dr. Sengeh’s remarks set a powerful tone for the town hall, emphasizing that any meaningful pursuit of peace must be grounded in the current realities of the nation. “We cannot talk about the future of peace if we do not first address where we are today,” he declared, urging participants to confront Sierra Leone’s challenges with honesty and determination. His message was clear: sustainable peace is not an abstract goal but a practical necessity that demands immediate and concrete actions. In a world marked by uncertainty and conflict, the pursuit of peace, he argued, is not just an aspiration but a fundamental requirement for the nation’s stability and progress.

Commitment to the Tripartite Committee Recommendations

Central to Dr. Sengeh’s address was the government’s firm commitment to implementing the 80 recommendations put forth by the tripartite committee. He reaffirmed this commitment with conviction, stating, “We are committed to the 80 recommendations, and we will achieve all of them.” These recommendations are viewed not merely as suggestions but as essential steps toward building a peaceful and prosperous Sierra Leone. Dr. Sengeh underscored that President Julius Maada Bio is fully committed to realizing these recommendations, reinforcing the government’s dedication to fostering national progress.

Empowering Women and Youth: The Critical Workforce

Dr. Sengeh highlighted the crucial role of women and young people in Sierra Leone’s peacebuilding efforts. “The critical workforce comprises young people and women. If these people do not have peace, we will not have peace,” he emphasized. By focusing on these groups, the Chief Minister underscored the importance of their inclusion and empowerment in shaping the nation’s future. He pointed out that empowering these demographics is vital for creating a stable and secure Sierra Leone, as they represent the backbone of the country’s workforce and are key contributors to national development.

Embracing Radical Inclusion for National Cohesion

A central theme of Dr. Sengeh’s address was the principle of radical inclusion as a cornerstone for national cohesion. He passionately argued, “You cannot talk about peace if you don’t believe in radical inclusion. Inclusion must be the centerpiece of how national cohesion is built.” This call for radical inclusion resonated throughout the town hall, emphasizing the need for every citizen to have a voice and a role in the nation’s peace efforts. According to Dr. Sengeh, embracing diversity and ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their background, is part of Sierra Leone’s journey towards lasting peace is essential.

Adapting Through Continuous Learning

Dr. Sengeh also addressed the need for continuous learning and adaptation, advocating for a mindset that embraces change and innovation. “We need to unlearn so that we can learn,” he urged, calling for a shift in thinking that allows for growth and adaptation to evolving challenges. This perspective is crucial for ensuring that solutions to the country’s problems remain effective in a rapidly changing world. By encouraging continuous learning, he highlighted the importance of flexibility and openness to new ideas in achieving sustainable peace.

The Importance of Dialogue and Civic Participation

The Chief Minister underscored the significance of dialogue and civic participation in building peace. “We have normalized dialogue and civic participation. That is the bedrock of peace,” he stated, highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive and participatory processes. According to Dr. Sengeh, this inclusive approach ensures that every voice is heard and that decisions are made with the collective good in mind. He stressed that engaging all segments of society in meaningful dialogue is key to achieving long-term peace and stability.

A Vision for Sierra Leone’s Future

As Sierra Leone moves forward, Dr. Sengeh’s commitment to peace, inclusion, and dialogue serves as a guiding light for the nation. His leadership exemplifies the belief that true peace is built on understanding, participation, and an unwavering commitment to progress for all citizens. The Peace and National Cohesion Town Hall, with Dr. Sengeh’s keynote address as its centerpiece, demonstrated the government’s dedication to creating a culture of peace through dialogue, inclusion, and active participation.

A Call for Collective Responsibility

Dr. Sengeh’s vision for Sierra Leone’s future calls for a collective responsibility where every citizen plays a crucial role in the journey toward lasting peace. His message is one of unity, urging Sierra Leoneans to embrace diversity, support inclusive policies, and engage actively in the nation’s peacebuilding efforts. By prioritizing radical inclusion, continuous learning, and civic engagement, the government aims to build a united and prosperous nation where every citizen feels valued and included in the quest for peace.