The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has presented its 2025 Annual Report and 2026-2030 Strategic Plan to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, reaffirming its commitment to promoting peace, dialogue, reconciliation, and national cohesion across Sierra Leone at State House, Freetown, on Wednesday, 5th August 2026.
Presenting the documents at State House, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Madam Hawa Samai, expressed appreciation to President Bio for his vision in establishing the Commission and for the continued support that has enabled it to fulfil its mandate.
Madam Samai described the Commission’s work over the past five years as both challenging and rewarding, noting that it has consistently relied on dialogue, mediation, and engagement to resolve conflicts and strengthen trust among Sierra Leoneans.
She commended President Bio for recognizing that peace is the foundation of national development, adding that his commitment to dialogue, reconciliation, and conflict prevention has empowered the Commission to effectively intervene in challenging situations across the country.
Madam Samai highlighted the Commission’s contribution to strengthening public confidence through dialogue, including its role in supporting the implementation of the National Unity Agreement. She also pointed to Sierra Leone’s re-eligibility for another five years of support from the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund as a reflection of international confidence in the country’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.
She cautioned that peace should never be taken for granted, stressing that it must be continuously nurtured, protected, and sustained through collective responsibility. She described the Annual Report and Strategic Plan as a testament to what Sierra Leone can achieve when citizens embrace unity, dialogue, and service above division and confrontation.
Presenting the documents, ICPNC Board Member P.C. Sheku Tejan Fasuluku III praised President Bio for establishing the Commission, describing it as a lasting investment in Sierra Leone’s peace, stability, and democratic progress.
Receiving the reports, President Julius Maada Bio commended the Executive Secretary, the Board, and staff of the Commission for fulfilling their statutory responsibilities and for their continued efforts in promoting peace and national cohesion.
“The work you are doing is critical for national development because peace and national cohesion are indispensable to the country’s progress,” President Bio said.
The President recalled that the establishment of the ICPNC was a key recommendation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Report, describing the Commission as one of his administration’s significant contributions towards consolidating peace and strengthening democratic governance.
He reaffirmed that peace remains the foundation of national stability and sustainable development, urging the Commission to continue promoting dialogue, reconciliation, and unity among citizens.
The presentation concluded with President Bio formally receiving the 2025 Annual Report and the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, while reaffirming his government’s continued support for the Commission’s efforts to safeguard peace, strengthen national cohesion, and promote inclusive development throughout Sierra Leone.