President Julius Maada Bio has arrived in New York, United States, ahead of the High-Level Week of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 81).
The 81st session opened on 8 September 2026 under the theme “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.” The theme underscores the need to rebuild confidence in multilateral institutions, strengthen cooperation, and ensure the UN responds effectively to global challenges facing people everywhere.
In a statement on his arrival, President Bio said he looks forward to a productive High-Level Week. His programme is expected to feature participation in key events and a series of bilateral meetings. These engagements will prioritise advancing Sierra Leone’s national interests and deepening ties with international partners.
The High-Level Week brings together heads of state and government, senior officials and other global stakeholders. The General Debate is scheduled to begin on 22 September.
President Bio’s presence carries particular weight for Sierra Leone and the wider region. He continues to serve as Coordinator of the African Union Committee of Ten (C-10) on United Nations Security Council reform, a role that positions Sierra Leone at the forefront of Africa’s push for a more representative and effective global security architecture. Sierra Leone is also a member of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for the 2026–2028 term.
On the sidelines, the President is listed as a confirmed speaker at Unstoppable Africa 2026 (20–21 September), the flagship business and investment forum of the Global Africa Business Initiative.
The event, convened with support from the UN Secretary-General and the African Union Commission Chairperson, focuses on powering African business, scaling economies and attracting investment under the theme “Powering Business, Scaling Economies, Shaping the Future.”
For Sierra Leoneans, the visit offers an opportunity to highlight progress under the Medium-Term National Development Plan and the Big Five Game Changers, seek partnerships on food security (Feed Salone), human capital, youth employment, energy and private-sector growth, and reinforce the country’s voice on issues ranging from climate resilience and sustainable development to peace and security in West Africa.
World leaders are gathering at a time of complex global challenges. President Bio’s participation affirms Sierra Leone’s continued commitment to constructive multilateral engagement and to ensuring that the perspectives and priorities of Sierra Leoneans and Africans are heard in the highest international forums.
