The President of Sierra Leone, Brigadier Julius Maada Bio (Rtd), attended the 42nd Plenary and 29th GIABA Ministerial Committee Meeting in Freetown from November 17 to 23, 2024. The meetings highlighted achievements in combating money laundering and terrorist financing in West Africa.
A significant moment was the completion of GIABA's second round of Mutual Evaluations for its member states, culminating in the adoption of the Mutual Evaluation Report for São Tomé and Príncipe.
The opening session included speeches from several dignitaries: "H.E. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone," "Mr. Sheku F. Bangura, Minister of Finance of Sierra Leone," "Ms. Elisa de Anda Madrazo, President of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)," and "Mr. Edwin W. Harris Jr., Director General of GIABA."
Participants commended West Africa and GIABA for their dedication to fulfilling the organization's mandate. They were encouraged to continue collaborating with member states to combat financial crimes for regional security and economic growth.
GIABA is a key player in West Africa's efforts to build strong anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing frameworks, advancing both regional and global security goals.
The Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA) is an ECOWAS institution focused on enhancing member states' ability to prevent money laundering and terrorism financing.
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