Freetown, Sierra Leone – January 19, 2026: President Julius Maada Bio departed from Freetown today en route to Davos, Switzerland, for high-level engagements at the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) 56th Annual Meeting.
In a post on X, the president stated, “I departed Sierra Leone for Davos, Switzerland, to attend the World Economic Forum’s 56th Annual Meeting under this year’s theme, ‘A Spirit of Dialogue.’”
The event, held in Davos-Klosters from January 19 to 23, brings together heads of state, government leaders, international organization heads, business executives, and development partners to address urgent global economic, political, and social challenges.
This year’s theme, “A Spirit of Dialogue,” emphasizes forward-looking discussions and bold collective action across five key global challenges: cooperation in a more contested world, unlocking new sources of growth, better investing in people, deploying innovation at scale and responsibly, and building prosperity within planetary boundaries.
Cross-cutting priorities include growth, resilience, and innovation, with public-private dialogues involving governments, businesses, civil society, and academia.
President Bio’s participation highlights Sierra Leone’s increasing prominence internationally and its dedication to promoting Africa-focused solutions in areas like economic transformation, sustainable development, regional integration, and global cooperation.
He is expected to engage in targeted sessions, particularly on energy-related issues.
This aligns with broader African priorities at the forum, where energy and economic growth are key topics amid planetary sustainability goals.
Other African leaders confirmed or expected include Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who will deliver a special address; Morocco’s Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch; DRC’s President Félix Tshisekedi; Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo; Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama; and Equatorial Guinea’s President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, also focusing on energy matters.
The meeting kicks off with an opening concert featuring violinist Renaud Capuçon, musician Jon Batiste, and the Mahler Chamber Orchestra on January 19.
Bio’s attendance continues Sierra Leone’s engagement with global platforms, building on previous participations to advance national and continental interests.
