Sierra Leone's President, Julius Maada Bio, inaugurated the National Governing Council of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) on April 30, 2025. This event signals Sierra Leone's commitment to improving governance, transparency, and democratic accountability. The ceremony was held at State House, Freetown and it is seen as a step forward in the nation's governance reform efforts.
The APRM is a Pan-African initiative aimed at promoting self-assessment and peer learning among African states. The inauguration marks the start of Sierra Leone’s active engagement with this initiative. Hon. Amara Kallon, Minister of Public Administration and Political Affairs, and APRM National Focal Point, spoke about the mechanism’s critical role in encouraging democratic resilience and governance improvements. “The Council will oversee Sierra Leone’s second country self-assessment and peer review process,” he stated, highlighting its role in supporting policy measures that boost government efficiency and accountability.
Professor Duramany Lakkoh, Chairperson of the APRM National Governing Council, outlined the Council’s main responsibilities. He announced the Council will coordinate the 3rd High-Level Forum on South-South and Triangular Cooperation, intending to make Sierra Leone a center for peer learning and collaborative governance.
President Bio congratulated the newly appointed Council members, urging them to maintain transparency and integrity in their work. He emphasized the significance of leadership and accountability, noting the APRM's contribution to ensuring responsive and efficient governance structures.
“With the establishment of the APRM National Governing Council, Sierra Leone further strengthens its commitment to democratic resilience, governance reforms, and regional cooperation,” President Bio remarked. “The APRM provides an invaluable framework for self-reflection, peer learning, and evidence-based policymaking—ensuring that our national governance structures evolve to meet the aspirations of our people.”
The inauguration reinforces Sierra Leone's position as an active participant in the APRM, aligning its governance with international standards.
For further inquiries, contact State House Media and Communications Unit at info@statehouse.gov.sl.
Freetown, Sierra Leone, 30 April, 2025
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