By Hassan Osman Kargbo
President Dr Julius Maada Bio has officially set the tone for the 2026 National Remembrance Week by leading a symbolic White Ribbon pin up ceremony at State House in Freetown.
The ceremony marked the formal launch of activities dedicated to honouring the memory of Sierra Leoneans who lost their lives in the country’s struggle for peace unity and national cohesion. The Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion Madam Hawa Samai performed the symbolic act by pinning the white ribbon on President Bio.
The white ribbon serves as a powerful national symbol of remembrance peace and reflection. It represents the collective resolve of Sierra Leoneans to remember the sacrifices made by countless citizens and to reaffirm the nation’s commitment to peace reconciliation and unity. By participating in the ceremony President Bio underscored the importance of national memory and the need to continually reflect on the country’s past in order to build a more peaceful future.
Speaking at the event officials noted that the National Remembrance Week provides an opportunity for citizens to pause and honour those who paid the ultimate price for the nation. It also serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict and the importance of sustaining peace through dialogue tolerance and mutual respect.
National Remembrance Day will be officially observed on January 18. However commemorative activities and public programmes have already commenced and will continue through January 21. The extended period allows citizens across the country to engage in reflection dialogue and community based activities aimed at promoting peace and national cohesion.
Planned activities during the week include public discussions interfaith prayers community engagements and educational programmes designed to encourage collective remembrance and learning. These activities are intended to foster national healing and strengthen the shared values that bind Sierra Leoneans together.
Officials from the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion emphasized that remembrance is not only about honouring the past but also about reinforcing commitments for the future. They stressed that peace must be actively nurtured through responsible leadership civic responsibility and respect for democratic values.
The White Ribbon campaign has over the years become a central feature of National Remembrance observances. Citizens are encouraged to wear the ribbon throughout the week as a sign of solidarity with victims of past conflicts and as a pledge to uphold peace and unity in their communities.
President Bio’s participation in the launch reflects the government’s continued support for peace building initiatives and national reconciliation efforts. It also sends a strong message that leadership at the highest level remains committed to preserving peace and ensuring that the lessons of history are not forgotten.
As the country marks National Remembrance Week Sierra Leoneans are being urged to use the period to reflect on their shared history honour the memories of the fallen and renew their commitment to a peaceful and united nation.
