Sierra Leone’s story is one of survival and resilience. Our nation has endured a brutal civil war and years of political unrest that have left lasting scars on our people and institutions. As we rebuild, one principle must guide us above all: civility. This is not just about being polite; civility is about fostering respect, empathy, and cooperation. It is the cornerstone of national healing, progress, and democratic stability.
Why Civility Matters?
Civility holds societies together. In Sierra Leone, where over 18 ethnic groups and diverse religious beliefs coexist, our strength lies in our ability to respect and embrace these differences. Civility helps us navigate our diversity with understanding, creating unity instead of division. Without civility, however,mistrust and hostility thrive, turning our communities into battlegrounds instead of places of collaboration. This battleground mindset has sorely affected our nation’s collective will and democratic indices.
Our history underscores the dangers of incivility. The civil war, fueled by greed, corruption, and the breakdown of trust, showed us the devastating consequences of losing respect for one another. Recent attempted coups are another noticeable example. Civility, in the minds of many of its skeptics and opponents is a luxury, however, it is not a luxury; it is a shield against repeating the mistakes of the past. It can foster dialogue, builds trust, and paves the way for meaningful progress in our national discourse.
The Importance of Civility Today
Sierra Leone faces significant challenges—poverty, corruption and public malfeasance, and economic instability to name a few. Addressing these problems requires more than policies; it demands a cultural and mindset shift. Civility ensures that discussions about these issues are constructive rather than divisive. It encourages leaders and citizens to listen to each other, find common ground, and work together for the greater good.
Take political differences as an example. They should not lead to animosity, negative rhetoric, or violence. Civility allows us to debate ideas without attacking individuals but the issues. It reminds us that our collective well-being is far more important than our partisan victories. When civility shapes our conversations, real solutions become possible.
The Dangers of Incivility
Incivility is a slippery slope. It erodes trust, breeds division, and stifles national progress. Corruption and malfeasance thrive when accountability is absent, and accountability cannot exist without mutual respect. When incivility becomes the norm, it weakens the very fabric of our society, making it even harder to address the issues holding us back.
A Call to Action: Embracing Civility for National Growth
The future of Sierra Leone depends on each of us committing to civility.
Start small:
Conclusion
When we embrace civility, we create a society where collaboration thrives, trust is rebuilt, and progress becomes attainable. Civility is the starting point for addressing the challenges that hold us back and realizing our collective potential as a nation. Being civil in our engagements or acting in such a way on public issues is not a sign of weakness; it is a demonstration of strength. It shows that we value one another and understand that our differences do not divide us but enrich us. By making civility the foundation of our actions, Sierra Leone can rise above its past and build a future defined by peace, unity, and progress. Let us each take up this call to civility and work together to create a brighter, stronger Sierra Leone for generations to come.
In essence, let’s everyday citizen together.
About the Author
George Shadrack Kamanda is a Sierra Leonean diplomat, author, civic leader, and politician. He currently serves as a diplomatic and legal affairs expert at the Permanent Mission of Sierra Leone to the United Nations. Kamanda is also the founder and CEO of The Necessity Firm and the Chairman of Everyday Citizen, a civics initiative promoting
responsible citizenship.
