By Amara Kargbo

Sierra Leone is emerging as a key player in addressing critical global issues, as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation prepares to host the C-10 summit scheduled for April 25-26, 2025, an event which will focus on navigating challenges and supporting peace advocates worldwide.

At the Government weekly press briefing, Deputy Minister Madam Francess Paige Alghali announced that Sierra Leone will lead discussions on vital topics, particularly the reform of the United Nations Security Council. The summit will convene the Committee of Ten (C-10), comprising heads of state from various African regions, including West, East, Central, and South Africa. This committee is tasked with formulating a concrete action plan for Africa’s approach to UN reforms.

Alghali noted the pressing concern that Africa, representing 50 countries and over 800 million people, remains underrepresented in the Security Council. She averred that this issue demands serious attention from the UN. The C-10 committee aims to address these reform challenges, led by President Julius Maada Bio. However, the Deputy Minister as well stressed the lack of a cohesive strategy and unified African position on this pivotal matter.

“Achieving a shared voice is essential for advocating our interests on global platforms,” she asserted, underscoring the need for collaboration among African nations. The summit will draw government representatives from multiple countries, facilitating a collective action plan for Security Council reform amidst the current lack of consensus among African states.

Sierra Leone seeks to build a common understanding and strategic direction during the conference. The country aspires to present a unified front, with specific goals set for implementation by September. Madam Alghali expressed pride in Sierra Leone’s leadership in these reforms.

The ministry is also backing Professor Charles Chernor Jalloh as a candidate for the International committee of jurors, striving to gather support for him and other Sierra Leonean representatives.

The Ministry remains dedicated to bolstering Sierra Leone’s diplomatic relations globally, reinforcing its commitment to international obligations as an active member of the global community. Alghali noted recent discussions within the Security Council, where Sierra Leone consulted with various nations about critical security issues.

Looking forward, Sierra Leone aims to excel in global operations and foster a constructive influence in diplomatic relations. This upcoming dialogue at the C-10 summit marks a significant opportunity for nations to voice their concerns and contribute to discussions surrounding peace, peace building, and conflict resolution.

She pointed out the urgency of addressing ongoing conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and other volatile regions like Ukraine and Gaza. She reiterated that these issues are persistently on the Security Council’s agenda, maintaining a commitment to UN principles and resolutions aligned with the Council’s mission.

Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s recent experiences, Alghali noted the privilege of holding the Security Council presidency twice within a single year, highlighting the opportunities available to smaller nations that larger countries often overlook. This November’s focus will include security and the integration of cyberspace and cyber law challenges in the Council’s agenda.

With renewed determination, Sierra Leone is committed to achieving its goals and fostering cooperation in the Security Council’s endeavors.