This afternoon, it was a profound honour to witness the promotion and decoration of distinguished senior officers of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces at the Myohaung Officers’ Mess, Wilberforce Barracks. This solemn and significant occasion reflects the values upon which a strong and professional military is built: discipline, integrity, courage, loyalty, and an unwavering commitment to national service. The advancement of these officers is not only a recognition of their dedication and exemplary service, but also a renewed call to leadership, accountability, and the continued defence of our nation’s sovereignty, peace, and territorial integrity. As First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone and President of OAFLAD, I recognise with deep appreciation the sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform, as well as those of their families, whose steadfast support sustains them in the discharge of their national duties. Their service is integral to our collective pursuit of peace, security, national cohesion, and sustainable development. To the newly promoted and decorated officers, I extend my sincere congratulations. May you embrace these new responsibilities with humility, exercise your authority with wisdom, and lead with distinction, professionalism, and an abiding commitment to the people and Republic you have sworn to serve. May your leadership strengthen public confidence in our armed forces and inspire the next generation to uphold the highest ideals of patriotism and service. As a nation, we remain deeply grateful to all those who serve to protect our peace and safeguard our future. May God Almighty continue to guide our armed forces, protect our service personnel and their families, and bless the Republic of Sierra Leone with lasting peace, unity, stability, and prosperity. F.M.B.

Yesterday, I had the honour of joining my beloved husband, His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, in Magburaka, Tonkolili District, to commemorate World Food Day 2026. Standing alongside our hardworking farmers, traditional leaders, and agricultural stakeholders reminded me that food security is at the heart of our national development. As a mother, I believe that every family deserves access to nutritious food, every child deserves the opportunity to grow up healthy, and no household should be left behind. Through the Feed Salone initiative, we are strengthening local food production, supporting our farmers, creating jobs, and reducing our dependence on imported food. By investing in modern farming, technology, and better agricultural systems, we can build a stronger and more self-reliant Sierra Leone. My heart remains particularly close to our women and young people in agriculture. We must empower women with the resources they need and give our youth the skills, financing, and opportunities to see farming as a profitable and dignified business. This year’s theme, “Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow,” reminds us that combining traditional knowledge with modern technology can transform agriculture and secure a better future for generations to come. It was an honour to introduce my husband as he delivered the keynote address. I commend his continued commitment to agriculture and the Feed Salone agenda, which places food security at the centre of our national priorities. To every farmer who works tirelessly to feed our nation, I extend my heartfelt appreciation. Your labour sustains our families and strengthens our country. As a mother, my dream is to see every child nourished, every family secure, and every farmer empowered. Together, we can build a Sierra Leone that feeds itself with pride, dignity, and confidence. F.M.B.

It was a pleasure to receive the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Sierra Leone, who personally visited my office to deliver a letter from Her Excellency Emine Erdoğan, First Lady of the Republic of Türkiye. Our discussions provided an opportunity to reflect on the longstanding friendship between Sierra Leone and Türkiye, the importance of strengthening our bilateral partnership, and our shared interests in the lead-up to COP31. The relationship between our two nations presents valuable opportunities for cooperation, particularly in areas that advance sustainable development, environmental protection, women’s empowerment, and the well-being of our people. Beyond the formal ties between our countries, I deeply cherish the warm, motherly bond I share with Her Excellency Emine Erdoğan. Our relationship reflects the spirit of sisterhood, mutual respect, and solidarity that can bring women leaders together in service of humanity. I remain committed to nurturing this special friendship and strengthening the bonds between Sierra Leone and Türkiye, confident that continued dialogue and cooperation will create lasting benefits for both our nations and our peoples. Diplomacy is not only about the relationship between nations; it is also about the human connections, shared values, and mutual understanding that give those relationships enduring meaning. FMB.

Today, I was honoured to receive His Excellency Saud Al Musaed Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Sierra Leone, at my office for a cordial and constructive engagement aimed at strengthening the longstanding bonds of friendship and diplomatic cooperation between our two nations. As a Muslim woman who firmly believes in religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and mutual respect, I recognise the importance of building bridges across nations, cultures, and faiths. Our diversity is a source of strength, and our commitment to understanding one another remains essential to building a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous society. Our discussions highlighted the enduring ties that unite Sierra Leone and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including our shared Muslim faith, which continues to serve as an important foundation for friendship, solidarity, and mutual understanding. We also reflected on the importance of deepening our diplomatic relations and exploring opportunities for greater cooperation in areas of mutual interest and benefit to our people. I remain convinced that meaningful diplomacy goes beyond formal engagements; it is about building trust, strengthening partnerships, and creating opportunities that stand the test of time. As we continue to advance our national and international relationships, Sierra Leone remains committed to fostering mutual respect, international cooperation, and peaceful coexistence with all nations. I thank His Excellency for the visit and look forward to continued engagement in the spirit of friendship, shared values, and a common commitment to strengthening the relationship between Sierra Leone and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. FMB.

Today, I held a productive meeting with the United Nations family in preparation for the historic celebration of the first United Nations Day for the Elimination of Child, Early and Forced Marriage, to be commemorated on 27 November. This landmark observance represents an important milestone in our collective efforts to protect the rights, dignity, and future of every girl child. It is a powerful reminder that ending child, early and forced marriage requires sustained commitment, strong partnerships, and collective action. As a longstanding advocate for the rights and protection of women and girls through my Hands Off Our Girls campaign, I remain deeply committed to ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to learn, grow, make her own choices, and fulfil her fullest potential without the burden of early or forced marriage. Our preparations with the United Nations family reaffirm our shared determination to turn this historic achievement into lasting change for girls, families, and communities across Sierra Leone, Africa, and the world. On 27 November, we will not only celebrate a significant milestone; we will renew our commitment to a future where every girl is protected, every childhood is valued, and every girl is free to pursue her dreams. Together, let us end child, early and forced marriage and build a world where every girl can thrive. FMB. #HandsOffOurGirls #EndChildMarriage #GirlsRights #27November #UnitedNations

I joined my husband, His Excellency Brig. (Rtd.) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, to graciously launch the Sierra Leone Ocean Shipping Company (SLOIC) at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay. This historic milestone represents another important step in our collective efforts to strengthen Sierra Leone’s maritime sector, create new economic opportunities, and position our country to benefit more meaningfully from its strategic location and ocean resources. The launch of SLOIC is not only about shipping; it is about connecting Sierra Leone to greater opportunities in trade, investment, logistics and regional commerce. A stronger maritime industry can create jobs for our young people, support local businesses and contribute significantly to our national development. As we continue building a more resilient and prosperous Sierra Leone, I remain inspired by the progress being made under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio. F.M.B

My husband and I demonstrated what it truly means to lead by example. We visited our private farms at various locations in Bonthe District. We started with a symbolic harvest of hundreds of acres of rice, and thereafter visited our fish farm and livestock facilities. This is a testament to the fact that the Feed Salone Initiative requires collective responsibility. If we, as a family, can farm, every Sierra Leonean can. We must all play our individual roles in ensuring that we grow what we eat and eat what we grow. I am therefore calling on organizations, agencies, and the private sector to invest in agriculture and help make our country a food self-sufficient nation. F.M.B.

Dakar has once again shown the world the true meaning of African solidarity and leadership. Today, under the gracious hosting of my dear sister, Her Excellency Mrs. Marie Khone Faye, First Lady of Senegal, we successfully launched the national “Building Resilience” campaign — strengthening the resilience of women and girls in the face of climate change and conflict. I am deeply grateful to Her Excellency Marie Khone Faye for her warm hospitality, her powerful advocacy, and the exemplary leadership she has shown in making Senegal the seventh country to officially join this continental movement. Her clear message that “Africa will build nothing sustainable without women and girls” resonated strongly with all of us and perfectly reflects the spirit of OAFLAD. We were especially honoured by the presence and strong support of His Excellency President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. His personal engagement and the full backing of the Government of Senegal send a powerful signal that the issues affecting women and girls are national priorities. The presence of sister First Ladies from across the continent further demonstrated our shared determination to turn commitment into concrete action. The launch in Dakar was a resounding success. It strengthened our collective resolve, deepened partnerships, and reaffirmed that when African First Ladies stand together, we can drive meaningful change for the health, education, safety, and economic empowerment of women and girls. On behalf of OAFLAD, I thank the people and leadership of Senegal for their exceptional hospitality and partnership. Together, we are building a more resilient Africa — one in which every woman and girl can thrive. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio President, Organisation of African First Ladies for Development First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone

I am honoured to lead the official launch of Building Resilience, a continental initiative under my leadership as President of OAFLAD. This initiative reflects our collective commitment to strengthening the resilience of women and girls in the face of climate change, conflict, and other challenges affecting their health, dignity, and livelihoods. Together, we will continue to champion practical solutions, strengthen partnerships, and advance a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive. Building Resilience. Empowering Women. Transforming Lives. FMB.

I had the honour of accompanying my beloved husband as he delivered the keynote address at the opening of the Geneva Peace Forum 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland. As a former military officer who understands the true cost of conflict, His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio continues to champion dialogue, diplomacy, and mutual respect as the foundations of lasting global stability. In his capacity as Chairman of the C10, he brings an important African voice to international discussions on peace, security, sovereignty, and cooperation. At a time of growing global uncertainty, his message is both timely and profound: “Choose peace, and choose it early.” I am immensely proud to stand beside a leader who recognises that peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but a shared responsibility that demands courage, wisdom, and collective action. May we choose dialogue over division, understanding over hostility, and diplomacy over confrontation, for the sake of humanity and the generations yet to come. FMB.

At The City Pavilion in Romford, I had the honour of representing my beloved husband, His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio, at the inauguration of the new SLPP United Kingdom and Ireland Regional Executive. My heart was filled with pride to witness our people, distinguished leaders and members of different political parties coming together in a spirit of unity and mutual respect. As a mother and First Lady, I firmly believe that although we may have different political views, we share one home and one future. The presence of members of the All People’s Congress was a powerful reminder that we can rise above our differences and put Sierra Leone first. To the newly inaugurated executive, congratulations. I urge you to lead with humility, integrity and a genuine commitment to serving our people. Let us continue to embrace one another, protect our peace and build a Sierra Leone that our children and generations yet unborn will be proud to inherit. May Allah bless our beloved nation and guide us towards greater unity and prosperity. One Country. One People. One Sierra Leone. 🇸🇱❤️ FMB

I had the profound honour of accompanying my beloved husband, H.E. President Julius Maada Bio, to the Vatican, where we had the privilege of meeting His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. It was a deeply meaningful and historic moment for me as I watched my husband meet the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church with profound joy, humility, respect, and admiration. I was immensely proud to stand beside him and share in this significant moment in his life. As a Muslim woman married to a Catholic man who holds his faith and doctrine deeply dear, I have come to cherish the beauty of our shared journey. Our different religious traditions have never been a barrier to our love; rather, they have taught us the enduring values of mutual respect, understanding, tolerance, and acceptance. I proudly support my husband in his faith, just as he honours and respects mine. In our marriage, we have learned that our differences can enrich our understanding of one another and strengthen the bonds that unite us. This encounter at the Vatican was a powerful reminder that faith, at its best, should be a bridge between people and communities—not a wall that divides us. In a world that needs greater compassion, dialogue, and understanding, our shared commitment to faith, family, peace, and humanity remains a source of strength. I thank Almighty God for granting me the grace to witness this extraordinary moment and to stand beside my husband on this memorable occasion. May our lives and our example continue to affirm the timeless truth that love, respect, tolerance, and faith can bring humanity closer together. FMB

These are My thoughts and candid opinions.

When history is preserved for generations yet unborn, it becomes a beautiful gift to humanity. It was a profound honour to visit the Adams National Historical Park and see the Mende Bible on display, a powerful reminder of the historic connection between Boston, Massachusetts, and Bonthe in Sierra Leone. For us, this was far more than a visit to a place of historical significance. It was a deeply touching journey through a shared history of bravery, dedication, compassion and the enduring pursuit of freedom. Standing in a place where the stories of our Sierra Leonean compatriots who paved the way for generations to come are preserved was deeply moving. The courage of the Africans aboard the Amistad, the story of Sengbe Pieh, and the compassion and conviction associated with President John Quincy Adams all form part of a remarkable chapter in the history of the struggle for freedom and human dignity. I was especially honoured to make this visit alongside my husband, H.E. President Julius Maada Bio, who himself hails from Bonthe, Sierra Leone. For both of us, the connection between Bonthe and this historic place in Massachusetts carries a very special meaning. To see a piece of our heritage preserved here, allowing people from across the world to learn, reflect and remember, is truly touching. We honour those who came before us, whose courage opened doors for generations yet unborn. Their stories remind us that the pursuit of freedom, dignity and justice transcends borders and generations. From Boston to Bonthe, this history continues to connect our peoples. With gratitude, pride and love for Sierra Leone. 🇸🇱 FMB

Last night, I had the pleasure of going to support my dear brother and friend, Shadi, at the Africell UNGA81 side event in New York. Africell has been a true partner in the work we have done for women and girls in Sierra Leone. From the very first day we launched Hands Off Our Girls, Africell stood with us, believing in the vision and supporting our efforts to protect, empower and give a voice to our girls. That kind of partnership goes beyond business. It is about shared values, commitment and a genuine belief in the future of our young people. I want to sincerely thank Shadi and the entire Africell family for standing with me and my office from day one. Your continued support has helped us take the message of Hands Off Our Girls from Sierra Leone to the global stage. As we continue this journey, I look forward to strengthening our partnership and doing even more for women, girls and communities across Sierra Leone and Africa. Thank you, Africell, for standing with us. FMB

Sierra Leone Ready to Welcome West Africa and the World for WAIIS 2026 It was an honour to stand alongside His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly as he launched the countdown to the inaugural West Africa Integration and Investment Summit (WAIIS), which will take place in Freetown this November. I was proud to be there to support President Bio as Sierra Leone prepares to welcome Heads of State, investors, development partners, business leaders and other key stakeholders to our country. WAIIS is much more than a summit. It is an opportunity for Sierra Leone to position itself at the heart of West Africa’s economic and investment agenda, while opening doors for partnerships, investment and opportunities that can directly contribute to the prosperity of our people. With its focus on energy, strategic minerals, agribusiness and digital transformation, the Summit speaks directly to the future we want for Sierra Leone and our region—one driven by investment, innovation, regional cooperation, job creation and inclusive economic growth. As Sierra Leone gets ready to welcome the world to Freetown, I am confident that WAIIS will provide an important platform to showcase our country’s potential and strengthen partnerships that can translate into tangible opportunities for our people. Sierra Leone is ready. Freetown is ready. Africa is ready. FMB

Honoured Among Icons: A Moment of Gratitude and Reflection I am deeply honoured and humbled to have been recognised as an Iconic Woman of the Year at the UNGA81 Powerlist Honours in New York. To receive this recognition during the United Nations General Assembly is a privilege I accept with immense gratitude—not only as First Lady of Sierra Leone, but as a woman committed to using her voice and platform to advance the lives of women and girls, both in Sierra Leone and across Africa. What makes this moment particularly special is the privilege of being honoured alongside three remarkable women who have served their nations at the highest level: H.E. Dr. Joyce Hilda Banda, former President of the Republic of Malawi; H.E. Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, former President of the Republic of Mauritius; and H.E. Rosalía Arteaga Serrano, former President of the Republic of Ecuador. Standing in the company of such distinguished women is a reminder that leadership is not simply about the positions we hold, but about the lives we touch, the doors we open for others, and the legacy we leave behind. My own journey has always been deeply connected to the voices of women and girls. From Hands Off Our Girls and the fight against child marriage and gender-based violence, to advancing girls’ education, women’s health, empowerment and dignity, I believe that every girl deserves the opportunity to determine the course of her own life. I dedicate this recognition to the women and girls of Sierra Leone, Africa and beyond whose courage continues to inspire my work. I remain grateful to everyone who continues to believe in the power of women’s leadership and to those who walk alongside me in this journey. With gratitude, humility and renewed determination. FMB

At the Clinton Global Initiative, I had the privilege of sharing my perspective on the future we are creating for our children and the responsibility we all carry to ensure that no child is left behind in a rapidly changing world. I spoke about the importance of digital safety and the urgent need to protect our children as technology becomes an increasingly central part of their education, development, and everyday lives. But protection must go hand in hand with opportunity. Africa must not simply be a consumer of technologies, policies, and ideas developed elsewhere. We must be partners in the conversations, the planning, the innovation, the invention, and the decision-making that shape our digital future. Africa has extraordinary young talent, creativity, and ingenuity. Our young people have solutions, and they deserve to be given the opportunity to help design the future—not simply receive it. The safety of our children is a shared global responsibility. It requires governments, technology leaders, educators, parents, civil society, and young innovators to work together across borders and continents. My message at CGI was simple: Africa must have a seat at the table, our children must be protected, and collaboration must be at the heart of building a safer and more inclusive digital future. FMB

At the Clinton Global Initiative, I had the privilege of sharing my perspective on the future we are creating for our children and the responsibility we all carry to ensure that no child is left behind in a rapidly changing world. I spoke about the importance of digital safety and the urgent need to protect our children as technology becomes an increasingly central part of their education, development, and everyday lives. But protection must go hand in hand with opportunity. Africa must not simply be a consumer of technologies, policies, and ideas developed elsewhere. We must be partners in the conversations, the planning, the innovation, the invention, and the decision-making that shape our digital future. Africa has extraordinary young talent, creativity, and ingenuity. Our young people have solutions, and they deserve to be given the opportunity to help design the future—not simply receive it. The safety of our children is a shared global responsibility. It requires governments, technology leaders, educators, parents, civil society, and young innovators to work together across borders and continents. My message at CGI was simple: Africa must have a seat at the table, our children must be protected, and collaboration must be at the heart of building a safer and more inclusive digital future. FMB

When we talk about digital safety for our children, we must take the conversation seriously. The digital world is evolving rapidly, and while it creates tremendous opportunities for our children, it also exposes them to risks that require urgent and collective action. I had the privilege of addressing world leaders and key stakeholders in the digital space at the United Nations, where I called for Africa to be fully included in the planning, innovation, development, and implementation of solutions that shape our digital future. Africa cannot continue to be viewed only as a recipient of concepts, technologies, and products developed elsewhere. We have the talent, creativity, knowledge, and innovation to contribute meaningfully to the global digital agenda. Our people must be in the room when decisions are being made about the future of our digital space. Most importantly, our children deserve a digital environment that protects their dignity, privacy, education, wellbeing, and safety. No child should have to choose between accessing the opportunities of technology and being protected from its dangers. This requires genuine collaboration—governments, technology companies, educators, parents, civil society, young innovators, and international institutions working together, with Africa not at the table as an afterthought, but as an equal partner. Our children are the future. Their safety must be at the heart of every digital conversation, and Africa must be part of shaping that future. FMB