Sierra Leone is gearing up to host a significant event for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

President Julius Maada Bio has confirmed his attendance at the opening ceremony of the four-day ECOWAS Court of Justice conference, scheduled to begin on May 13th, 2024, in Freetown.

The conference theme, “Enhancing the role, relevance and effectiveness of the ECOWAS Court of Justice through the strengthening of synergies between the Court and national stakeholders,” reflects a commitment to improving the Court’s impact within the region.

President Bio pledged his government’s full support, highlighting Sierra Leone’s reputation for hospitality. Justice Edward Amoako Asante, President of the ECOWAS Court, expressed appreciation for the efforts and inclusivity demonstrated by the local organizing committee.

This conference serves as a platform for prominent figures like lawyers, academics, jurists, and Chief Justices from member states to address a critical topic for the West African community. It also marks a historic moment for Sierra Leone, being the first time the Court has held an international conference in the nation since its inaugural event in Dakar, Senegal, in 2004.

A delegation from the Court, led by Justice Amoako Asante, recently visited Sierra Leone to discuss preparations with government officials. The visit included meetings with the acting Chief Justice, Honorable Justice N Browne-Marke, and the Attorney General, Mohamed Lamin Tarawalley. Discussions focused on ensuring a successful conference and reviewing arrangements for various aspects of the event.

Justice Amoako Asante further explained that the conference aims to foster constructive conversations about the Court’s relationship with national stakeholders. The goal is to identify areas for improvement and propose practical solutions to strengthen the Court’s role and effectiveness in the region.