Moral Guarantors on Unity Agreement Delegation Pays Visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The International Moral Guarantors’ joint follow‑up mission paid a visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International on April 13, 2026, where Deputy Minister Francess Piagie Aghali delivered an abundant update on government implementation status covering national unity agreement progress alongside Tripartite Committee report recommendations.

Reverend Shodanke Johnson, Board Chairperson for the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, opened discussions inside Foreign Affairs’ conference room. He introduced visiting delegations from ECOWAS, the African Union, the United Nations, and Commonwealth entities arriving in Freetown for political dialogue aimed at cementing hard‑won peace.

Welcoming guests on behalf of his commission, Johnson reflected on years past when rival parties first signed their accord. That compact, he noted, has since yielded noticeably healthier coexistence among Sierra Leone’s political actors. “We have journeyed together with ECOWAS, AU, UN, Commonwealth, trying to create a peaceful, coexisting political environment,” he stated. “Also, to build a better government and country that will enhance the world.”

Acknowledging natural disagreements even within families, Johnson added light self‑deprecation: “Not sure if I’m elitist or not, but families meet, sometimes face issues, conflicts. That remains normal.” He then invoked traditional African conflict resolution. “As Africans, we strongly believe in discussion. That is our ancestral root. When issues arise, we sit and drink,” he said, drawing smiles. “In an African setting, people drink palm wine while discussing troubles. We believe here we will sit and discuss.”

Drawing from personal leadership lessons, Johnson outlined three qualities essential for any great peacemaker. “First, become a great listener. Second, become a great learner. No matter your knowledge, pretend ignorance, learn from others, because each person brings unique dimensions.” Third, he said, is becoming a great adviser. “After listening and learning, offer your own input. Together, that creates a superb atmosphere for policy making.”

The goal, he explained, transcends mere note‑taking. Sitting together helps Sierra Leone’s political situation move “from strength to strength.” He expressed hope that the next election cycle would be “easy, smooth walk together, as brothers after understanding.” He concluded: “We want assurance that as brothers and families, we sit together. So, we are here. Let us listen, learn, then make very serious contributions.”

Deputy Minister Alghali then assured the delegation that Sierra Leone remains fully invested in implementing the national peace accord, now officially named the Tripartite Agreement. Speaking at Freetown’s two‑day review meeting, she said the government does not take its peace role lightly. “Much progress has been made in executing various agreement aspects,” she stated. “Outstanding issues do not outweigh achieved progress.” She expressed confidence that attendees would hear both government perspectives and stakeholder viewpoints on accord execution.

The Deputy Minister stressed that peace, security, and national cohesion remain top presidential priorities. She acknowledged recent global tensions, particularly between the United States and other nations, have demanded attention, yet governance and peace agreement execution continue receiving due focus.

Noting Sierra Leone’s current chairmanship of ECOWAS alongside United Nations Security Council membership, she said the government remains deeply devoted to seeing the agreement through. “Your visit will prove worthwhile,” she told the delegation. “Both parties will demonstrate willingness and evident progress.”

She heightened the commitment to dialogue. “In every conflict situation, commitment to discussing issues remains key to resolving outstanding matters.” Adding plainspoken resolve. The review should produce a clearer picture of the Tripartite Agreement’s standing and remaining steps toward full peace consolidation.

Fatoumata Jallow‑Tambajang, former Vice President of Gambia, serves as Joint Facilitator for mediated Dialogue and Head of Delegation. Speaking upon arrival for a week‑long assessment mission accompanied by diplomats and technical advisors, said it is truly an honour returning to Sierra Leone, thanking the country for its hospitality shown to her delegation.

She started the discussion that this marks the third mission under the International Model of Dialogues, running April 13‑18, 2026, “to listen, hear progress, challenges, and look for ways forward.”

She revealed that the African Union, UNOWAS, and the Commonwealth Secretariat all provide support in carrying out this exercise. “The international community’s mandate is playing a pertinent, supportive role; your union remains in the driver’s seat. We listen and simply support the unity agreement cause.”

She often described His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio, as the head that wears the crown.’ He wears that crown very instrumentally, giving political commitment to peace. She mentioned the pivotal role the president has been playing, and she encouraged him, the government, civil society, all other stakeholders, including the APC, All People’s Congress party, to come on board and continue working together.”

Her core message underscored unity and shared purpose that resonates that “our voice and advice everyone put Sierra Leone first; that same principle we advocate across Africa, put our countries first.” She argued that setting aside political differences proves essential. “What matters is how different stakeholders work together, moving Sierra Leone toward the best possible future not only for us but for generations to come.”

The delegation will meet civil society, all political parties, and the media. “We will discuss good governance, which means everyone sees themselves within governance and each person bears responsibility contributing toward the common good.”

Reflecting on the journey since the unity agreement signing in 2023, Jallow‑Tambajang admitted path has not always been easy. “When we came in October 2023, conditions proved very challenging.” She shared a personal philosophy: “I never treat any issue as a problem, but viewing life as a problem, you never solve it, instead embrace challenges; that transforms mentality, well provides drive toward coping with goals, solving issues, finding solutions.”

She expressed optimism that the 2023 unity and peace would become key to Sierra Leone’s prosperity.

The Head of Delegation applauded the Ministry for the country’s growing continental and global influence. “We recognise the Foreign Affairs Minister’s important role not only in Sierra Leone but on the international scene.” She praised His Excellency Dr. Madhavi, described as the UNOWAS chairperson among heads of state and government, for fostering peace, stability, and progress. “He has played an instrumental role in giving Africa a voice inside the UN Security Council.”

Senior Correspondent-Amara Kargbo

Email: kargboamara079@gmail.com

Tel: +232 73111507