Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio assumed the chairmanship of the High-Level Summit of the African Union Committee of Ten Heads of State and Government on the United Nations Security Council Reform (C-10) held in Oyala, Equatorial Guinea.

Addressing the summit, President Bio highlighted its crucial purpose in assessing progress made toward advocating for the Common African Position within the UN Security Council. Emphasizing Africa’s determination to secure its rightful place in the global arena, he articulated the continent’s unity and purpose in achieving its goals despite the challenges ahead.

The President underscored the significance of Africa’s absence from the Permanent Category of the UN Security Council despite its pivotal role in global peace and security. The C-10, dedicated to rectifying this historical disparity, pledged collaboration with stakeholders to address this crucial issue.

Key outcomes of the Summit included the adoption of the Outcome Document, the Communiqué, and the Oyala Plan of Action. These documents will guide the Committee’s efforts in pushing for the Common African Position and provide essential directives for officials involved in the UN Security Council reform process.

President Bio outlined his commitment to championing Africa’s cause during Sierra Leone’s presidency of the UNSC in August 2024. He expressed readiness to collaborate with the other A-3 countries to advocate for Africa’s prioritization in both the Permanent and Non-Permanent categories of the Security Council.

The President expressed gratitude to President Teodoro Mbasogo for hosting the Summit and commended the collaborative efforts of fellow Heads of State and their Governments in advancing the Common African Position within the UNSC reform process.

President Bio’s leadership at the C-10 Summit signifies Sierra Leone’s steadfast commitment to ensuring African representation in the UN Security Council, underscoring the collective determination to address historical imbalances and advocate for Africa’s rightful place in global decision-making bodies.