Bio Challenges African Leaders to Turn Promises Into Results
President Julius Maada Bio has called on African countries to strengthen local industries, increase production and improve regional trade to reduce dependence on exporting raw materials and importing finished goods.
He made the call while delivering the keynote address at the Elevate Africa Convening 2026 in Accra, Ghana, on October 28, under the theme “Africa: Defining Her Future.”
President Bio said political independence must be supported by economic capacity, urging governments to invest in industries that process minerals, transform agricultural products and create jobs. He also called for stronger negotiating capacity to protect Africa’s interests amid changing global economic relations, limited development financing and rapid technological advancements.
Highlighting Sierra Leone’s priorities, he referenced the Free Quality School Education Programme, introduced in 2018, and the Feed Salone initiative, stressing that education and food security are essential to economic resilience and national development.
He also urged African governments to make the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) more effective by reducing trade barriers and expanding market access, enabling businesses in countries such as Sierra Leone and Ghana to trade more easily.
On leadership and governance, President Bio called for stronger public institutions, accountability and practical implementation of development commitments. Drawing on Sierra Leone’s experience of conflict and recovery, he emphasised dialogue, justice and respect for constitutional order as foundations for peace and stability.
He further advocated greater opportunities for young Africans in leadership, employment, entrepreneurship and innovation. First Lady Fatima Bio, speaking at the opening ceremony, also highlighted women’s empowerment as essential to Africa’s development.
President Bio concluded by urging African leaders to measure their performance by tangible results rather than speeches and declarations, emphasising economic independence, industrialisation and regional cooperation as priorities for the continent’s future.
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