By Demba Kangi Daramy,Information Attacheè,Embassy of Sierra Leone,Addis Ababa,Ethiopia.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – April 8, 2025: Her Excellency Madam Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of Sierra Leone, has officially assumed her role as President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD). During her visit to Ethiopia for the inauguration ceremony, she was briefed by Dr. Alhaji Sajor Bah, Sierra Leone’s highest-ranking official at the African Union (AU) and Director of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS).
The briefing, held at the Sheraton Hotel in Addis Ababa, provided an overview of PAPS’ mandate and its alignment with Agenda 2063. Dr. Bah highlighted Aspiration Three, which envisions an Africa rooted in good governance, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, and Aspiration Four, which focuses on fostering a peaceful and secure continent.
Dr. Bah emphasized PAPS’ dedication to supporting Member States, Regional Economic Commissions (RECs), and Regional Mechanisms (RMs) in conflict prevention, management, and resolution. He also outlined the department’s initiatives to promote youth participation in peacebuilding and governance, as well as its child-sensitive approaches to conflict resolution and post-conflict recovery.
In his remarks, Dr. Bah congratulated Madam Bio on her election as OAFLAD President and assured her of PAPS’ unwavering support for the organization’s mission.
Madam Bio expressed pride in Dr. Bah’s achievements and extended her best wishes to all Sierra Leoneans serving at the AU. She commended PAPS’ critical work, particularly in addressing the impact of armed conflicts on women and children. She pledged to use her tenure as OAFLAD President to advocate for the rights of marginalized and vulnerable groups, with a focus on empowering women.
The meeting was attended by Her Excellency Ana Afonso Dias Lourenco, First Lady of Angola and Vice President of OAFLAD, as well as His Excellency Harold Bundu Saffa, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, the African Union, and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.
Madam Bio’s inauguration marks a significant milestone in her commitment to championing development and peace across the African continent.