By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
In a significant step towards enhancing national stability, Madam Hawa Sally Samai, the Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), unveiled an ambitious roadmap aimed at fostering peace and cohesion throughout Sierra Leone.
She made this statement during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s (MoICE) weekly press briefing. This event marked the first press engagement of the year, setting an optimistic tone for the months ahead.
During her address, Madam Samai announced plans to conduct a comprehensive fragility study across Sierra Leone’s 190 chiefdoms. The objective of this study is to identify the root causes of conflicts and establish a pathway toward sustainable peace. She articulated the goal of transitioning the country from what she termed “negative peace”—the mere absence of violence—to “positive peace,” which encompasses lasting harmony and stability.
“This study is crucial in shaping long-term strategies that will embed peace in the very fabric of our society,” Madam Samai stated, highlighting its importance in fostering a stable and united Sierra Leone.
Reflecting on the progress made in 2024, Madam Samai commended Sierra Leoneans, particularly members of the media, for their essential role in promoting peace. She praised journalists, bloggers, and social media creators for disseminating positive messages that counteract hate speech, fostering a harmonious environment within the nation.
“As we step into 2025, let us continue to guard our peace jealously,” she urged, emphasizing the collective responsibility of all citizens in maintaining stability and unity.
In her briefing, Samai also provided an update on the implementation status of the National Unity Agreement. Out of the eight resolutions outlined in the agreement, seven have been fully executed, with the final resolution concerning salary backlog payments being prioritized by President Julius Maada Bio. “This demonstrates the government’s commitment to resolving lingering issues and ensuring that every facet of the agreement is honored,” she noted.
Addressing concerns from the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) regarding the recent arrests of party members, Madam Samai announced the formation of a joint committee comprising representatives from both the government and the APC. This committee is tasked with not only addressing these concerns but also fostering dialogue and mutual understanding among political stakeholders.
“This initiative reflects a commitment to dialogue and cooperation, emphasizing the importance of trust in our political landscape,” she explained.
Madam Samai’s announcements and reflections during the press briefing set a hopeful tone for 2025, underscoring the need for collective efforts to sustain peace and unity in Sierra Leone as the nation looks towards a more harmonious future.