First Lady of Sierra Leone Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has emphasized the need for greater inclusion of women in leadership and decision-making positions in Africa. On October 28, 2026, she addressed the Elevate Africa Conference in Ghana, highlighting the importance of women's participation in achieving lasting peace and sustainable development. As President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), Bio stressed that Africa's full potential cannot be achieved while women remain excluded from leadership positions and decision-making processes.
Bio described African women as key contributors to development, peacebuilding, and the continent's future. She urged leaders to recognize their contributions and ensure their voices are reflected in national and regional decision-making. Drawing on Sierra Leone's experience and her advocacy through the Hands Off Our Girls campaign, Bio emphasized the need to protect girls, end violence against women, invest in education, and create meaningful opportunities for women.
The First Lady highlighted the importance of building peaceful and prosperous societies through action at the community level. She noted that efforts to protect women and girls and promote equal opportunities can have a lasting impact when implemented in homes and schools. Bio also urged African leaders to translate commitments into practical action by building inclusive institutions, supporting emerging women leaders, and ensuring women's participation in peacebuilding, governance, and national development.
Bio stressed that cooperation between women and men is necessary to advance justice, unity, and lasting peace across the continent. Her remarks at the conference underscored the importance of women's participation in shaping Africa's development agenda and strengthening efforts to build peaceful and inclusive societies. The conference provided a platform for Bio to share her vision and experiences with other leaders and stakeholders.
As President of OAFLAD, Bio has been a vocal advocate for women's empowerment and leadership. Her participation in the Elevate Africa Conference demonstrates her commitment to promoting women's inclusion in decision-making processes. The conference brought together leaders and stakeholders to discuss pressing issues affecting Africa, including women's leadership and peacebuilding.
Bio's call for greater women's leadership has resonated with many Africans who believe that women's participation is essential to achieving sustainable development. Her advocacy has also highlighted the need for African leaders to prioritize women's empowerment and inclusion. The impact of her message is expected to be felt across the continent, as leaders and stakeholders begin to implement practical actions to promote women's leadership.
The Elevate Africa Conference provided a timely platform for Bio to share her insights and experiences with a wider audience. Her participation has contributed to a growing conversation about the importance of women's leadership in Africa. As the continent continues to grapple with pressing challenges, Bio's message has emphasized the need for inclusive and sustainable solutions that prioritize women's empowerment and participation.
Key points
- First Lady Fatima Bio calls for greater inclusion of women in leadership and decision-making positions in Africa.
- Bio emphasizes the need to protect girls, end violence against women, invest in education, and create meaningful opportunities for women.
- The First Lady stresses that cooperation between women and men is necessary to advance justice, unity, and lasting peace across the continent.
