By Mariama Bundu
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has called for a decisive shift in Africa’s peace and security strategy, urging leaders to prioritize prevention over intervention as the most sustainable pathway to stability across the continent.
Delivering his address at the 10th Edition of the Dakar International Forum on Peace and Security in Africa at the Abdou Diouf International Conference Center (CICAD), President Bio advanced the “Dakar Doctrine” of prevention before intervention, describing it as essential to reducing the human and economic costs of conflict in Africa.
He told Heads of State, security experts, and international partners that Africa must move away from reactive crisis management and instead invest in early warning systems, preventive diplomacy, and inclusive governance structures.
President Bio stressed that lasting peace must be driven by African-led solutions, strengthened institutions, and deeper regional cooperation, particularly through frameworks such as the African Union and ECOWAS. He emphasized that peace cannot be imposed externally but must be built on trust, dialogue, and accountable governance.
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s post-conflict recovery, the President highlighted the country’s experience in rebuilding democratic institutions and promoting national reconciliation, noting that resilience and sustained institution-building remain key to long-term stability.
He further called for enhanced collaboration between governments, civil society, and international partners to address structural drivers of instability, including youth unemployment, inequality, and weak institutions. According to him, investing in young people remains central to preventing future conflicts.
President Bio also underscored the importance of regional mechanisms in safeguarding constitutional order and democratic governance in West Africa, commending ECOWAS for its continued role in mediation, dialogue, and conflict prevention.
His participation included a high-level presidential panel discussion focused on strengthening Africa’s security architecture and improving coordination in responding to emerging threats.
The Dakar International Forum continues to serve as a leading platform for shaping Africa’s collective security agenda, with this year’s discussions reinforcing the principle that sustainable peace is best achieved through prevention, partnership, and strong institutions.
President Bio’s address further reinforces Sierra Leone’s growing profile in continental and global peace and security discourse, positioning the country as a strong advocate for African-driven solutions to instability.
