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The United Nations (UN) and the Government of Sierra Leone today celebrated the UN’s 80th anniversary with a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony at the Wilberforce hockey pitch in Freetown, held under the theme “Building our Future Together.”
The ceremony honored the 42 Sierra Leonean officers and civilians who have died while serving the United Nations in peacekeeping missions since the organization’s founding in 1948.
Madam Seraphine Wakana, the UN Résident Coordinator SierraLeone, delivered remarks welcoming dignitaries to the “Memorial Day.”
She highlighted the importance of the partnership with Sierra Leone, stating: “Today, 24th October marks 80 years of the founding of the UN. We also celebrate our partnership with Sierra Leone. This partnership has strengthened Sierra Leone to hold high positions on the international stage.”
Madam Wakana concluded by congratulating President Bio on his position as the Chairman of ECOWAS and noted that winners of the UN at 80 quiz and debate competition would receive their prizes later in the day at Miatta Conference Hall.
Delivering his statement as the guest of honor, President Brig Rtd Julius Maada Bio began by stating: “Today we don’t just raise the flags of the UN but we also raise our gratitude.”
President Bio emphasized the need for global change, urging reform of the UN Security Council. “As we honor those who have given their lives in this noble pursuit, it is also an opportune moment to consider the importance of reforming the United Nations Security Council, granting Africa permanent seats, to better fulfill the organization’s vital mandate,” he stated.
The ceremony concluded with the raising of both the Sierra Leone and UN flags, the laying of a wreath in memory of the fallen heroes, a cake cutting, and group pictures.
