By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, April 28, 2025 – The Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) has organized the inaugural National Symposium on Reclaiming the Significance of April 27, Independence Day. Held at the prestigious Julius Maada Bio Parade Square in Wilberforce Barracks, the event brought together a diverse group of attendees, including Paramount Chiefs, policymakers, civil society groups, and members of the diplomatic corps.
The symposium aimed to deepen national pride and reaffirm Sierra Leone’s journey to independence. In his opening address, Minister of Information and Civic Education Chernor Bah emphasized the importance of unity under the slogan “Salone Big Pass Wi All.” He traced the roots of the independence movement to Bai Bureh’s resistance against colonial rule in 1898, which inspired the push for sovereignty in 1961.
Mayor of Freetown Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr reflected on Sierra Leone’s economic evolution, governance challenges, and post-war peacebuilding efforts, urging collaboration among government ministries and private sector investment to spur development.
A panel discussion featuring historian Prof. Joe A.D. Alie, Monuments and Relics Commissioner Joseph Keifala, and Madame Isatu Thorlu Bangura delved into the nation’s historical path to independence, underscoring the collective effort that led to freedom from British rule.
Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, in his closing remarks, described independence as an ongoing process of nation-building. He highlighted government initiatives promoting peace and cohesion, including the establishment of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion.
The symposium concluded with cultural and musical performances celebrating Sierra Leone’s unity and patriotism, marking a day of reflection, hope, and national pride.