By: Precious Miracle Kargbo Snr
Julius Maada Bio has called on African nations to take charge of their own development and strengthen their institutions or risk being marginalized in an era of rapid global disruption.
Speaking at the Africa Together Conference 2026 on Friday, 22 May 2026, at University of Cambridge, President Bio delivered the Presidential Lecture on the theme: “Africa in an Age of Disruption: Power, Agency and Strategic Choice.”
Addressing scholars, students, members of the African diaspora, and distinguished guests, Bio emphasized that Africa’s greatest challenge is not disruption itself, but confronting global change without strategic direction and resilient institutions.
The President, who also serves as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, stressed that Africa must move away from dependency and toward strategic agency in shaping the future global order.
He described the current global landscape as one shaped by technological advancement, climate pressures, geopolitical fragmentation, and democratic fragility. “Africa’s greatest risk is not disruption itself, but entering an age of disruption without strategic agency,” Bio said.
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s history, President Bio spoke about the country’s civil conflict and its transition from military rule to democratic governance in 1996. He noted that genuine leadership is demonstrated through respect for constitutional order rather than the seizure of power. “As President of Sierra Leone and Chairman of ECOWAS, I can say with certainty that disruption is no longer theoretical for Africa,” he stated.
Bio highlighted several pressing challenges facing West Africa, including unconstitutional changes of government, violent extremism, economic instability, disinformation, and climate insecurity.
He also outlined key reforms implemented in Sierra Leone since 2018, including the Free Quality Education Programme, expanded healthcare services, women’s empowerment initiatives, and the Feed Salone agricultural transformation programme. According to the President, investments in youth employment, technology, and public sector reform are central to strengthening governance and developing human capital.
Discussing Africa’s future role in the world, Bio identified three major priorities: technology and digital sovereignty, economic transformation, and climate resilience. He urged African countries to become creators and owners of technology, especially in the field of artificial intelligence, rather than remaining passive consumers. “Africa must not only adapt to the future of Artificial Intelligence. Africa must help shape it,” he declared.
President Bio further called for stronger collaboration between African institutions and global academic centres such as University of Cambridge, based on mutual respect and the co-creation of knowledge.
He also challenged members of the African diaspora to contribute more actively to the continent’s development through investment, mentorship, innovation, and knowledge exchange.
Concluding his address with the symbolism of a communal African fire, Bio underscored the importance of intergenerational leadership and continuity. “History is already moving,” he said. “The question is whether Africa will move as an Author or as an Observer.”