Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, alongside First Lady Fatima Bio and various stakeholders, participated in a solidarity walk for prostate cancer awareness in Freetown. During the event, President Bio thanked the women and youth of Sierra Leone for their support in raising awareness about prostate cancer. He stated, “I want to say a big thank you to the women and youths of this country for dedicating their efforts to supporting an issue that does not directly affect them.”
President Bio emphasized the importance of regular medical check-ups for those over 40, as advised by medical experts Dr. Gordon Harris and Professor Babatunde Duduyemi. He remarked, “Knowing your medical status early can make a significant difference in managing health challenges, including prostate cancer.” The President also shared advancements made during his visit to Vienna regarding technology acquisition for treating prostate cancer in Sierra Leone.
He called for men to engage openly with gender-based issues such as rape and domestic violence. “We must change the narrative. Women should not die as a result of domestic violence; it is unacceptable,” he stressed.
President Bio extended thanks to First Lady Fatima Bio for her leadership on social causes and host Tina Davies, OBE, OOR, along with all participants of the event. “This year’s theme, Waka for We Man Dem, captures the spirit of unity and collective effort,” he concluded.
First Lady Fatima Bio praised participants’ commitment to raising awareness about prostate cancer and highlighted societal support’s importance. She said, “Together we can create a better future by supporting our men in their fight against prostate cancer.” She expressed gratitude towards President Bio as a “hero in supporting the women of Sierra Leone.”
Consultant Urologist Dr. Gordon Harris and Pathologist Professor Babatunde Duduyemi provided insights into prostate cancer at the event. They clarified that not all prostate-related issues are cancerous and stressed regular screenings’ importance.
Professor Duduyemi assured attendees that Sierra Leone has made progress in treating prostate cancer locally: “Prostate cancer can be treated right here in our country. We are equipped to do a lot for those affected,” he stated while expressing gratitude towards President Bio’s vision bringing them four years ago.
