First Lady Fatima Bio Hosts High-Level UNGA Side Event on Peace and Security in New York
Sia Lucy Kannah The First Lady of Sierra Leone and President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), Madam Fatima Bio, has hosted a high-level side event on the margins of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
Held under the theme “Peace and Security Through Her Eyes: Centering Women and Children in Global Peace, Stability, and Sustainable Development,” the event brought together First Ladies from across Africa and beyond, alongside development partners, global philanthropists, civil society leaders, and other advocates committed to protecting and empowering women and children.
In her statement, Madam Bio said she was honored by the presence of President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau and her husband, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, both of whom delivered strong messages reaffirming their commitment to advancing the rights of women and girls across Africa and the world.
“As President of OAFLAD, this year’s theme speaks to me on a deeply personal level,” she said. “Without peace and security, the world cannot become a safe, fair, or prosperous place for women and girls. Their protection, inclusion, and leadership must remain central to any agenda for sustainable development and global stability.”
She also expressed gratitude to President Bio, noting both his personal and political commitment to championing gender equality in Sierra Leone, particularly through efforts to end gender-based violence and promote equal opportunities.
