By: Saidu Jalloh
In a landmark diplomatic achievement, Sierra Leone is set to assume the presidency of the United Nations Security Council for the second time this November, according to Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Madam Francess Paige Alghali. The announcement was made during the government’s weekly press conference, marking a proud moment for the West African nation.
During her address, Madam Alghali highlighted the significance of this milestone, noting that few countries of Sierra Leone’s size and status have had the honor of presiding over the Security Council twice. “This is no small feat,” she remarked. “It signals that we are making meaningful strides on the global stage.”
She outlined the country’s priority areas for its presidency, which include the promotion of Women, Peace and Security (WPS), Youth, Peace and Security (YPS), and the regulation of cyberspace through international legal frameworks. According to Alghali, these are critical issues in today’s interconnected and rapidly evolving world.
The Deputy Minister also underscored Sierra Leone’s growing leadership role within the African Union (AU). She stated that the country remains actively engaged with key issues championed by the AU and continues to advocate for a unified African voice on global platforms.
“Sierra Leone has taken the lead in pushing for Security Council reform,” Alghali said, adding that the country is working closely with the Committee of Ten (C10) to build continental consensus. “We want to speak with one voice.”
She referenced President Julius Maada Bio’s consistent advocacy for the reform of the Security Council, particularly the call for permanent African representation. “Africa is home to over a billion people, yet we have no permanent seat at the table,” she emphasized.
Looking ahead, Alghali revealed that the C10 has finalized its action plan and will hold a retreat in Sierra Leone next week to begin implementing it. This unified approach, she noted, is vital as Africa pushes forward with a common agenda.
In conclusion, Madam Alghali described this development as a proud moment for Sierra Leone and a significant step in the nation’s commitment to global peace, security, and fairness in international governance. “We are taking bold steps to ensure meaningful reform at the United Nations Security Council,” she affirmed.