-At Liberia’s 68th Armed Forces Day Celebration
By: Vaye A. Lepolu
Monrovia – Sierra Leone’s President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, has urged the governments of Liberia and Sierra Leone to strengthen civil-military relations, promote capacity building, and enhance regional collaboration to bolster democratic institutions and ensure lasting peace and security.
Speaking at a high-level event, President Bio emphasized the critical role of armed forces in maintaining stability and fostering development. He called for a unified approach to address evolving security challenges in the region.
“We must strengthen our civil-military relations, promote capacity building, enhance regional collaboration, and fortify democratic institutions. Your Excellencies, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, the path to sustainable peace requires collective effort,” President Bio declared.
Reflecting on the sacrifices of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), President Bio praised their pivotal role in safeguarding peace, stability, and democracy in Liberia and across the West African region. He noted that despite numerous challenges, Liberia has remained a beacon of peace and resilience, thanks in large part to the dedication of its military.
“The sacrifices of the Armed Forces of Liberia have laid the foundation for peace and stability in the country and the wider region. Despite trials and tribulations, Liberia stands as a testament to the power of resilience. However, sustainable peace and security cannot be achieved without a strong and capable army,” President Bio stated.
He highlighted the importance of building robust institutions to support democracy, stability, and progress, noting that armed forces play a central role not only in defending territorial integrity but also in fostering peace, responding to emergencies, supporting development initiatives, and strengthening democratic governance.
President Bio underscored the shared history of Liberia and Sierra Leone, both of which have endured the devastating consequences of conflict. He stressed that sustainable peace goes beyond the absence of war, requiring justice, good governance, and inclusive development.
“We have witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of conflict, but we have also experienced the power of resilience, reconciliation, and rebuilding. Sustainable peace is not merely the absence of war but the presence of justice, good governance, and inclusive development,” he said.
The Sierra Leonean leader emphasized the indispensable role of all stakeholders—governments, civil society, international partners, and security forces—in maintaining peace and security. He called for a consultative approach that involves political leaders, security institutions, community organizations, and ordinary citizens.
“The engagement of all stakeholders is not just important—it is indispensable. The role of security and armed forces is crucial, but peace and security cannot be maintained by the military alone. It requires a collective effort involving political leaders, security institutions, community organizations, and ordinary citizens. Such engagement fosters inclusivity and strengthens our shared commitment to peace,” President Bio explained.
He commended the AFL for its commitment to working with various sectors of society, noting that the military is an integral part of the nation’s fabric. From peacekeeping missions and humanitarian assistance to disaster response and community service, the AFL has demonstrated its dedication to national and regional stability.
President Bio also highlighted the importance of regional collaboration through organizations such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU). He called for continued engagement with national and international stakeholders to uphold peace, support economic recovery, and contribute to regional stability.
“As we reflect on and celebrate the achievements of the Armed Forces of Liberia, we must also acknowledge the challenges ahead. The threats to peace and security in our region are evolving, ranging from transnational crime and cyber threats to climate-related conflicts and economic disparities. Addressing these challenges requires sustained cooperation and innovation,” he said.
President Bio concluded by reaffirming his commitment to strengthening ties between Liberia and Sierra Leone, as well as enhancing regional collaboration to address shared challenges. He expressed confidence that, through collective effort, West Africa can achieve lasting peace, security, and prosperity.
“Let us continue to work together, hand in hand, to build a future defined by peace, stability, and progress. Our shared history binds us, and our collective commitment to a peaceful future will guide us,” President Bio declared.
