By Babatunde Rashid
When the President speaks up for Africa, he is also speaking up for the needs and aspirations of people like Madam Lucy Sellu, a single-parent farmer in Kailahun District; like Sorie Demba Koroma, a teacher at the Movement of Faith Islamic Secondary School in Gbentu, Falaba District, and people like Alpha Sesay, the youth leader in Kalangba, Bombali District.
Sierra Leone’s recent leadership at the United Nations Security Council marks a pivotal moment for both the nation and the African continent. A journey that started in earnest when Sierra Leone publicly launched its promotion items for the bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council on 9 May 2022, has paid off.
President Julius Maada Bio’s call for reform and greater African representation reflects a deep sense of historical justice and positions Sierra Leone as a key player in the quest for a more equitable international order.
By advocating on behalf of Africa, Sierra Leone is asserting its influence on the global stage, demonstrating its capability to lead critical discussions on global governance.
This achievement significantly elevates Sierra Leone’s stature in international diplomacy, potentially leading to greater respect and consideration for its positions in other international forums.
The country’s leadership in pushing for African representation on the Security Council may also attract international partnerships and investments, as Sierra Leone becomes increasingly recognized as a voice for justice and reform.
Unlike larger African nations traditionally seen as leaders in diplomacy, such as South Africa, Nigeria, and Egypt, Sierra Leone’s presidency of the Security Council and its unwavering stance on African representation have shifted the spotlight, underscoring its diplomatic capabilities and commitment to Pan-African ideals.
The call for two permanent African seats on the Security Council, as articulated by President Bio, underscores Africa’s collective demand for justice and the need for its voice in global decision-making. Sierra Leone’s leadership in this effort is a powerful reminder that even smaller nations can influence significant global changes.
By challenging the outdated structure of the UN Security Council, Sierra Leone is contributing to a broader movement towards a more inclusive and fair international system, highlighting that countries with fewer resources can still play a crucial role in shaping the future of international relations when driven by a strong sense of purpose and justice.
Most importantly, Sierra Leone’s leadership in advocating for reform at the United Nations Security Council is a proud moment for our nation, showing that even a small country like ours can make a big difference on the world stage.
Just as we come together to solve local challenges, like improving our schools and healthcare, our country is now standing up for Africa’s voice in global decisions. This is about ensuring that the concerns of ordinary Sierra Leoneans—like peace, security, and fairness—are heard and respected by the most powerful nations.
For the people of Sierra Leone, this achievement means more than just international recognition. It’s a step toward a better future for all of us.
When the President speaks up for Africa, he is also speaking up for the needs and aspirations of people like Madam Lucy Sellu, a single-parent farmer in Kailahun District; like Sorie Demba Koroma, a teacher at the Movement of Faith Islamic Secondary School in Gbentu, Falaba District, and people like Alpha Sesay, the youth leader in Kalangba, Bombali District.
By demanding fair representation at the UN, we are making sure that our struggles and triumphs as a nation are part of the global conversation, and that our country continues to grow and thrive in a fairer world.
