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The Campaign for Good Governance (CGG) has endorsed President Julius Maada Bio’s declaration of 18 January as Sierra Leone’s National Day of Remembrance, describing it as a significant step toward national healing and reconciliation.
In a press statement released on the 13th of December 2025, CGG said the declaration aligns with recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), particularly provisions calling for the establishment of a national commemoration day to reflect on the country’s 11-year civil conflict, which ended in 2002.
According to the governance watchdog, the National Day of Remembrance provides an opportunity for collective reflection, recognition of the suffering endured during the war, and reinforcement of national unity. CGG noted that acknowledging the sacrifices of victims and survivors is essential to preventing a return to violence and political division.
The organization also highlighted the role of institutions and civil society groups, including the Center for Memory and Reparations, in advancing transitional justice and peacebuilding efforts across the country.
CGG further called for survivors of the civil war to be meaningfully involved in activities related to the implementation of the declaration. It urged the government to strengthen the reparations process and promote inclusive dialogue aimed at addressing the root causes of the conflict, including corruption, inequality, and weak governance systems.
The group emphasized that peace goes beyond the absence of violence and requires justice, accountability, and respect for human dignity.
President Bio announced the establishment of January 18 as the National Day of Remembrance earlier this month, marking a new addition to Sierra Leone’s national commemorative calendar.
