Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a symbolic ceremony upon his return from Geneva’s ‘Place des Nations,’ Musa Timothy Kabba, Sierra Leone’s Foreign Minister, presented a historic chair to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh.
The 124-year-old chair, emblematic of the world’s ongoing struggles with conflicts and the frequent disregard for International Humanitarian Law (IHL), serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for global action to protect civilians.
President Bio, accepting the chair on behalf of the nation, expressed his deep appreciation for Switzerland’s recognition of Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to the Geneva Conventions and International Humanitarian Law.
Reflecting on the country’s resilience, he noted that Sierra Leone, having overcome the trials of civil war, now stands stronger and more committed than ever to upholding these vital international principles.
The chair, rich in history, symbolizes Sierra Leone’s steadfast pledge to continue championing the Geneva Conventions and IHL for the next 75 years and beyond. It represents not just the past but also a future where the protection of human dignity in times of armed conflict remains paramount.
During the 75th-anniversary celebration of the Geneva Conventions, Sierra Leone and Switzerland co-hosted the event, with Foreign Minister Kabba and Mr. Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, presiding.
Minister Kabba took the opportunity to honor the enduring legacy of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), particularly its role in supporting former child soldiers during Sierra Leone’s civil war—a role that personally impacted him.
“The Geneva Conventions have withstood the test of time, guiding us through decades of conflict and turmoil, offering a beacon of hope and protection to those caught in the crossfire of war,” Kabba remarked.
“As we commemorate this milestone, we are reminded of our collective responsibility to uphold the principles of International Humanitarian Law, ensuring that the dignity and rights of those affected by conflict are always safeguarded.”
The ceremony underscored Sierra Leone’s ongoing dedication to the principles enshrined in the Geneva Conventions, as the nation continues to advocate for the protection of civilians and the adherence to IHL on the global stage.
