In collaboration with esteemed First Ladies of Africa, Sierra Leone proudly launched the National Building Resilience Campaign 2025–2027. The landmark initiative marks a bold step toward strengthening systems that protect, empower, and uplift women and girls, positioning resilience as a cornerstone of national and continental development.
Speaking at the launch, Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio emphasized that the campaign is more than the unveiling of a program—it is a declaration of protection, resilience, and hope. She underscored that building resilience means ensuring no woman is forced to choose between her safety and survival, and that proactive systems must be established to support women and girls before crises occur.
Dr. Bio highlighted the vision of a future where African women’s strength is not treated as a burden, but celebrated as brilliance. She noted that resilience is about standing with women and girls at every stage of life, ensuring they are never alone, and creating pathways for dignity, security, and opportunity.
Reflecting on past achievements, the First Lady acknowledged the progress made through the We Are Equal campaign, which demonstrated the power of African women leading with courage, unity, and purpose. She expressed confidence that, having overcome challenges before, African First Ladies will once again rise together to deliver meaningful and lasting change.
While the campaign begins in Sierra Leone, Dr. Bio stressed that its reach must extend far beyond national borders. She called on her fellow First Ladies to carry the initiative to their respective countries, igniting collective action across the continent and advancing a shared vision of one voice, one mission, and one Africa.
The First Lady concluded by thanking partners, government institutions, NGOs, community leaders, pupils, women, girls, and HeForShe men for their support. She also paid special tribute to her husband, His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, whose unwavering commitment to women’s rights and dignity continues to inspire her leadership. Together, she affirmed, Africa can build a resilient continent where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
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Strategic Communications Divisions,
Office of the First Lady,
Republic of Sierra Leone