By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, May 12, 2026: Sierra Leone’s President Dr. Julius Maada Bio commemorated his birthday with a high-level youth-led gathering, the African Young Leaders Convergence (AYLC), held at the Freetown International Conference Centre. Themed “From Potential to Power: Unlocking Youth Agency for Africa’s Transformation,” the event formed part of the second edition of the Julius Maada Bio Leadership Colloquium.
Youth-Centered Celebration
The colloquium brought together young leaders from across Africa and Sierra Leone to discuss leadership, innovation, governance, and empowerment. AYLC Brand and Media Consultant Kingsley Okeke explained that President Bio dedicated his birthday to celebrating African youth and sharing his leadership journey as inspiration.
Minister of Youth Affairs Ibrahim Sannoh described the President as a champion of youth transformation and peace, noting the event’s significance in recognizing youth as drivers of Africa’s future.
Regional Voices
Hon. Fuad Gena, President of the Ethiopian Youth Council, called for stronger partnerships and youth-led collaboration across Africa. His Majesty Ogiameh Atuase III, the Olu of Warri Kingdom in Nigeria, praised President Bio’s investments in youth empowerment, describing them as consequential for Africa’s development.
Fireside Conversation with President Bio
In a candid dialogue, President Bio reaffirmed his commitment to democratic leadership, pledging to peacefully hand over power at the end of his tenure. Reflecting on his role during conflicts in Sierra Leone and Liberia, he emphasized leadership as service and sacrifice. He urged young people to take bold, informed, and patriotic actions, stressing that Africa’s future depends on investments in education, technology, innovation, and skills development.
Women and Girls Empowerment
President Bio highlighted his administration’s efforts toward youth and women’s empowerment, praising First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio for her Hands Off Our Girls campaign. The First Lady addressed the convergence, encouraging young women to embrace leadership and civic responsibility while underscoring the importance of protecting girls from gender-based violence.
Former Commonwealth Secretary-General Baroness Patricia Scotland and a panel of young leaders also contributed to discussions. Sessions were moderated by Benjamin Ubiri and Isha Sesay.
This youth-led convergence underscored President Bio’s vision of empowering Africa’s next generation.