By: Aamra Kargbo
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba has highlighted Sierra Leone’s diplomatic, security, and institutional gains following the successful hosting of the 2026 ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit, describing the event as a major milestone that has strengthened the country’s regional influence and created new opportunities within the West African sub-region.
Speaking during an interview on Truth Media, Minister Kabba described the Summit as one of Sierra Leone’s most significant diplomatic achievements in recent years. He noted that Freetown hosted one of the most widely attended ECOWAS gatherings, bringing together nine Heads of State, two Vice Presidents, and several senior regional officials.
According to the Minister, the successful hosting of the Summit reflected positively on the Government of Sierra Leone, the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, and the people of Sierra Leone. He said the event demonstrated the country’s institutional capacity, enhanced its standing within the sub-region, and reinforced its image as a credible and responsible member of the international community.
On the key outcomes of the Summit, Kabba emphasized that the true importance of regional gatherings lies in the decisions and commitments made by leaders. He identified the renewed push towards the launch of the ECOWAS single currency, the ECO, by 2027 as one of the major outcomes of the meeting.
He explained that Heads of State and Government directed central bank governors and finance ministers to accelerate efforts towards monetary and financial integration, supported by mechanisms aimed at ensuring effective implementation. If achieved, he said. The introduction of the ECO would become one of the defining legacies of the Freetown Summit.
On regional peace and security, the Minister said the Summit also contributed to ongoing efforts to address the long-standing Yenga and Lofa border issues. He explained that discussions surrounding the withdrawal of Guinean troops followed deliberations by the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council, the Executive Council, and ultimately the Authority of Heads of State and Government.
Kabba reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to resolving the matter through diplomacy, dialogue, and continued regional engagement. While acknowledging public concerns over the pace of progress, he stressed that sustainable peace requires patience, consistency, and cooperation among all stakeholders.
He further disclosed that ECOWAS had engaged the African Union, the United Nations, and other international partners to support mediation efforts and help achieve a lasting resolution. He maintained that Sierra Leone’s position remains focused on peaceful dialogue, stability, and regional cooperation.
Addressing concerns over xenophobic attacks in South Africa, Minister Kabba described such incidents as unfortunate and inconsistent with the principles of African unity and solidarity. He said ECOWAS leaders used the Summit to reinforce condemnation of such acts and draw greater attention to the need to protect the rights and dignity of African citizens.
Although no officially reported cases involving Sierra Leoneans had been received through formal government channels, he assured that authorities continue to monitor developments through diplomatic representatives and remain committed to safeguarding the interests of Sierra Leoneans abroad.
The Minister also highlighted institutional gains achieved through Sierra Leone’s active participation in ECOWAS affairs. He pointed to the country’s attainment of the strategic position of Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security as one of the significant achievements, describing it as a reflection of growing confidence in Sierra Leone’s leadership and contributions to regional governance.
According to Kabba, the appointment demonstrates President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to peacebuilding, effective regional representation, and gender inclusion. He added that Sierra Leone has also secured increased opportunities for its citizens within ECOWAS leadership and administrative structures, further expanding the country’s presence in regional institutions.
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s wider role within ECOWAS, Kabba said President Bio’s leadership has helped restore visibility, confidence, and renewed engagement within the regional bloc. He noted that Sierra Leone’s stewardship has contributed to stronger cooperation among member states, while reinforcing commitments to democracy, security, and institutional credibility.
The Minister concluded that although ECOWAS continues to face regional challenges, Sierra Leone has made significant progress through diplomacy, principled leadership, and constructive engagement. He expressed confidence that the decisions reached at the Summit would continue to generate long-term benefits for Sierra Leone and the wider West African region.