By Festus J Lahai
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) convened on 21 August 2024 to hear a compelling account of Sierra Leone’s remarkable journey from conflict to peace, presented by Hawa Sally Samai, the Executive Secretary of the Peace Commission. Her address detailed the nation’s transformative process, emphasizing the importance of inclusive peacebuilding and the critical role of women in post-conflict recovery.
Addressing the UNSC, Samai praised the current president's leadership for their dedication to advancing the Council's peacebuilding and conflict prevention agenda. "The commitment shown by the presidency this August has been instrumental in pushing forward the peacebuilding dialogue that is crucial for global stability," she stated.
Madam Samai recounted Sierra Leone's transition from a brutal civil war, which ended in 2002, to becoming a model for post-conflict recovery. She highlighted the significance of the nation’s progress, which she described as exceeding all expectations, including those of the international community. "Sierra Leone stands as a beacon of hope," Samai noted, "demonstrating that even the most devastated nations can rise again through commitment, dialogue, and innovative strategies."
According to Samai, the unwavering political will to engage in dialogue has been a cornerstone of Sierra Leone's peacebuilding success. "From the Abidjan Peace Accord to the Lomé and Abuja Peace Agreements and the internal Bintumani Conferences, Sierra Leone has consistently chosen dialogue over discord," she emphasized.
The establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in 2002 was pivotal in addressing the root causes of the conflict. "The TRC, driven by civil society and with significant leadership from women, was transformative," Samai said. "It healed the wounds of war through truth-telling, accountability, and systemic reforms."
Madam Samai outlined the extensive structural reforms recommended by the TRC, which have been crucial in rebuilding the nation. These included the creation of the National Youth Commission and the Human Rights Commission, alongside significant justice and security sector reforms. "These reforms were not mere formalities," she explained. "They reflected a deep commitment to justice, human rights, and gender equality."
The establishment of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) in 2020 marked a new chapter in Sierra Leone’s peacebuilding efforts. Led by women, the ICPNC has adopted a people-centered approach, collaborating with local actors to prevent and manage conflicts. "The Commission’s work underscores the vital role of women in peacebuilding," Samai asserted.
Madam Samai emphasized the importance of community-driven conflict prevention, which has been key to Sierra Leone’s success. "Our experience shows that peacebuilding must be inclusive, gender-sensitive, and rooted in the people's needs," she said. She also highlighted the need for continuous support from national governments and international donors.
Reflecting on the UN's role, Samai acknowledged its indispensable support in ensuring Sierra Leone’s lasting peace. "The UN’s peacekeeping missions provided the security and stability needed during the post-war period, and their continued engagement has been critical to our success," she remarked.
In concluding her address, Samai called on the international community to draw lessons from Sierra Leone’s journey. "Our story is one of resilience and the transformative power of inclusive peacebuilding," she said. "Let it inspire and guide our collective efforts to build a more peaceful and just world."
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