By: Aminata Turay
Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has called on African nations to strengthen self-reliance and build resilient systems capable of meeting the growing needs of their populations, warning that governments can no longer depend heavily on external support for development.
Speaking at the opening of the Second Julius Maada Bio Leadership Colloquium 2.0 held at the Bintumani Hotel on Wednesday, the Vice President said the continent’s current economic and democratic challenges require bold, accountable, and visionary leadership.
“This is indeed an era of uncertainty, but it is also an opportunity for bold leadership,” he told African leaders, diplomats, policymakers, and development experts gathered under the theme of reimagining African leadership.
Highlighting some of the domestic realities facing policymakers, Dr. Juldeh Jalloh disclosed that nearly 720 children are born in Sierra Leone every day, placing increasing pressure on the country’s education system and future employment opportunities. He said such challenges make leadership more demanding, but also create moments where strong and effective leaders must emerge.
“These are not easy times for leadership, but they are the times when real leaders emerge,” he stated, while urging leaders to remain accountable and maintain close connections with the people they serve.
The Vice President also expressed optimism that the colloquium would evolve into a lasting platform for shaping a renewed vision of African leadership and governance.
Delivering the keynote address, President Julius Maada Bio called for a new generation of African leaders driven by courage, accountability, innovation, and a commitment to public service.
Addressing policymakers, academics, and development partners, President Bio said Africa’s future depends on leaders who are dedicated to building strong institutions and creating opportunities for ordinary citizens.
“This is our time to lead with courage, accountability rooted in trust, and innovation that creates opportunities rather than imitation,” President Bio stated.
The President also reflected on his decision in 1996 to hand over power to a democratically elected civilian government, describing it as a defining moment of conviction in democracy and national service.
He warned that poor leadership continues to negatively affect the lives of ordinary Africans through poverty, declining public trust, and limited opportunities.
“No nation rises above the quality of its leadership,” the President said, while urging African leaders to embrace sacrifice, transparency, and responsible governance in shaping the continent’s future.
Former President of Malawi, Joyce Banda, also addressed participants, calling on African leaders to embrace wisdom, humility, and servant leadership. She warned against the abuse and exploitation of African girls abroad and encouraged leaders to create more opportunities for women and young people.
“You need wisdom,” she told participants, stressing that true leadership is about service, compassion, and protecting vulnerable people.
The Julius Maada Bio Leadership Colloquium 2.0 concluded with strong calls for accountable leadership, regional collaboration, and youth-driven innovation as key pillars for shaping Africa’s future.