By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
Her Excellency madam Fatima Bio, the President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), delivered a compelling keynote address at the First Partners Global Academy, held at the Ford Foundation in New York.
This prestigious gathering brings together First Partners from across the globe to enhance leadership, share strategies, and foster collaboration on critical issues affecting women and children. The event provides a unique platform for international dialogue and cooperative action.
In her speech, Mrs. Bio emphasized the urgent need for cross-continental collaboration, noting that First Partners in different regions face similar challenges ranging from maternal and child health to gender-based violence, educational disparities, and economic inequality.
“These shared realities call for unified action and collective solutions,” she stated, encouraging attendees to work together to achieve meaningful, lasting change.
Her remarks reflected a deep commitment to inclusive, people-centered development. She stressed the importance of strategic partnerships and evidence-informed policymaking, reinforcing her belief that sustainable progress requires global cooperation and locally driven solutions.
Mrs. Bio’s participation underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of women and children. Her leadership on the global stage further cements her role as a key voice in international advocacy for gender equality and social justice.
The First Partners Global Academy served not only as a forum for exchanging best practices but also as a springboard for collaborative initiatives that can address global development challenges. Through her address, Mrs. Bio highlighted the interconnectedness of global issues and the need for united efforts to resolve them.
By calling for collective action, Mrs. Bio aims to rally global support for initiatives that improve health, education, and economic opportunities for marginalized communities. Her advocacy is in alignment with OAFLAD’s broader mission to empower women and children through collaborative development efforts across Africa and beyond.
As she continues her work, Mrs. Bio remains unwavering in her dedication to building partnerships that uplift vulnerable populations and inspire systemic change laying the foundation for a more equitable and inclusive future for all.
