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On August 27, 2024, a significant event took place in Freetown, Sierra Leone, as the country hosted an important dialogue focused on developing preventive measures against violent extremism and terrorism within the Mano River Union (MRU) states.
The event was held at the American Corner on Bathurst Street and was organized by Campbell and Co. Solicitors in collaboration with the Center for Economic Crime and Security Studies, with support from the Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA).
A diverse range of participants attended the gathering, including representatives from the judiciary, police, security sector, civil society, media, and local unions from Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia.
The primary objective of the dialogue was to delve into the root causes of violent extremism and terrorism and devise actionable solutions that can be implemented across the MRU states.
Ahmed B. Kamara, the chairman of the event, stressed the timeliness and significance of the dialogue, especially in light of the current political instability in Sierra Leone following recent elections. He emphasized the need to address the factors that contribute to violent extremism and terrorism effectively.
One of the highlights of the event was a presentation by Trokon A. Freeman, Program Manager at the Center for Economic Crime and Security Studies, who underscored the extensive impact of extremism on both individuals and society. Freeman emphasized the necessity of gaining a comprehensive understanding and implementing sustainable solutions to inform future policies and initiatives.
Throughout the event, discussions revolved around three primary contributing factors to extremism: push factors, pull factors, and contextual factors. These insights are anticipated to shape preventive measures and provide advisory recommendations for governments and stakeholders within the MRU states.
David Borbor, Director General of the Financial Intelligence Agency, represented GIABA and addressed the escalating threat of extremism in West Africa, particularly exacerbated by recent events in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. Borbor highlighted the crucial role of public awareness and vigilance in effectively combating these threats.
Sheikh Ahmed Bah, Director of Serious Organized Crime and Counter-Terrorism at the Office of National Security, commended the initiative and cautioned against complacency, noting the shift of terrorist threats to Africa, especially the Sahel region. He stressed the necessity for consistent collective efforts to maintain security in Sierra Leone.
Furthermore, Joan Bull, Head of Legal and Justice Support at the Sierra Leone Police, echoed the call for a unified approach to countering extremism, emphasizing the transnational nature of the threat.
Franklin Campbell, Managing Partner of Campbell and Co. Solicitors, described the dialogue as a pivotal step for the MRU states in addressing violent extremism. He expressed optimism that the discussions would lead to the creation of policy documents to guide effective responses to terrorism in the region.
