By Brima Sall
Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio on Monday called for African nations to prioritise conflict prevention over crisis response, as he addressed a gathering of leaders and security experts at a major forum in Senegal.
Speaking at the Dakar International Forum on Peace and Security in Africa held at the Abdou Diouf International Conference Center, Bio promoted what he described as a “prevention before intervention” approach to tackling instability across the continent.
He said African governments should move away from reactive measures and instead invest in early warning systems, inclusive governance and preventive diplomacy, arguing that the human and economic costs of conflict make such an approach essential.
“Africa’s peace and security challenges require African-led solutions,” Bio said, pointing to the role of regional organisations such as the Economic Community of West African States and the African Union in maintaining stability and promoting democratic governance.
Drawing on Sierra Leone’s recovery from civil war, Bio highlighted the importance of reconciliation, resilience and long-term investment in democratic institutions. He said sustainable peace must be built on trust, dialogue and accountable governance.
The president also called for closer cooperation between governments, civil society and international partners to address the root causes of instability, including youth unemployment, inequality and weak institutions.
Bio took part in a high-level panel alongside other African leaders to discuss ways to strengthen the continent’s security architecture and improve coordination in responding to emerging threats.
The Dakar forum is regarded as a key platform for shaping Africa’s security agenda, bringing together heads of state, policymakers and experts to discuss strategies for peace and stability across the continent.
