Officials of the Government of Sierra Leone have joined members of the War Wounded and Amputees Association to commemorate the country’s first-ever National Remembrance Day, held at the Peace Museum in Freetown.
The ceremony, held on Sunday, was marked by a short but solemn programme aimed at honouring victims of the civil war and reaffirming Sierra Leone’s commitment to peace, unity and national stability.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, said the government remains committed to preserving peace and ensuring lasting stability across the country. He described the day as an important moment of reflection on the sacrifices made by Sierra Leoneans during the war.
Quoting Julius Maada Bio, Minister Bah noted that National Remembrance Day will now form part of the country’s official calendar.
“As the President stated, from now on we will dedicate an entire week to remembering, discussing, commemorating and recognising the sacrifices made by all during the civil war,” he said.
Members of the War Wounded and Amputees Association used the occasion to call for increased social care and support for survivors of the conflict. In response, Minister Bah assured them of continued government support.
“We will continue to champion your cause in Cabinet. President Bio is deeply passionate about supporting you,” he told the group.
The ceremony observed a minute of silence, followed by a wreath-laying exercise at the memorial garden. Government officials, war victims and stakeholders laid wreaths at each of the 16 gravestones, accompanied by prayers for those who lost their lives during the conflict.
Among those present were Deputy Minister of Mines Umaru Napoleon Koroma, Executive Secretary of the Peace Commission Hawa Samai, and former President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists Umaru Fofanah.
The Freetown event formed part of nationwide commemorations, with similar activities held across the country, from Bomaru in Kailahun District to Bum Chiefdom in Bonthe District, highlighting the national importance of the Remembrance Day observance.
National Remembrance Day was introduced to honour victims, comfort survivors and remind Sierra Leoneans of the cost of war and the need to safeguard peace.
