By Mariama Bundu
President Julius Maada Bio has called on African countries to embrace strategic leadership, institutional resilience, and bold decision-making in response to growing global challenges.
The President made the statement during a Presidential Lecture at the Africa Together Conference 2026 held at the University of Cambridge in England on Friday, 22nd May 2026.
Speaking on the theme, “Africa in an Age of Disruption: Power, Agency and Strategic Choice,” President Bio said Africa must move from dependency to strategic agency in shaping the future global order.
Addressing scholars, students, members of the African diaspora, and other guests, President Bio described the current global situation as one marked by rapid technological change, climate pressures, geopolitical tensions, and democratic instability.
He warned that Africa’s greatest risk was entering an age of disruption without strategic direction and leadership.
Drawing from Sierra Leone’s history, President Bio reflected on the country’s transition from civil conflict to democratic governance, stressing that true leadership is about respecting constitutional order and democratic principles.
The President also highlighted reforms introduced in Sierra Leone since 2018, including the Free Quality Education Programme, healthcare expansion, women’s empowerment initiatives, agricultural reforms through the Feed Salone Programme, and investments in youth employment and technology.
President Bio emphasized that human capital development remains Africa’s most important long-term investment and called on African countries to strengthen institutions and accountability systems.
He further urged African nations to play a greater role in technology and Artificial Intelligence, stating that Africa should become a creator of technology rather than merely a consumer.
“Africa must not only adapt to the future of Artificial Intelligence. Africa must help shape it,” he said.
President Bio also encouraged stronger partnerships between African institutions and global academic centres, while calling on the African diaspora to contribute to the continent’s development through investment, innovation, and knowledge sharing.
He concluded by urging Africa’s younger generation to actively shape the future of the continent rather than simply inherit it.
