By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Sierra Leone’s 64th Independence Anniversary was commemorated with a powerful and symbolic event as the first-ever National Independence Symposium organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) held at the Julius Maada Bio Parade Grounds (formerly the Hockey Pitch)- Wilberforce Barracks, Freetown. The event, organized under the theme of reflection, unity, and national purpose, brought together students, government leaders, and citizens to revisit the nation’s historical journey and reignite a collective vision for its future.
Delivering the opening statement, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor A. Bah, emphasized the importance of remembering the country’s foundational moments. He invited the audience to step back in time as two students read the historic speech delivered by Sir Milton Margai on the morning of April 27, 1961, when Sierra Leone became a sovereign nation.
“Sixty-four years ago, our country got the right to govern itself,” Minister Bah said. “Today, we will listen to the very words that marked that historic moment—not just to remember, but to remind ourselves of the promise and responsibility that came with independence.”
The symbolic re-reading of Sir Milton Margai’s speech was a solemn and inspiring moment that brought history to life, especially for the younger generation in attendance. The act served not only as a tribute to the country’s founding leaders but also as a civic lesson in the enduring values of patriotism, leadership, and service.
The symposium was capped by a stirring address from Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, who used the platform to reflect on Sierra Leone’s journey since Independence, challenging citizens to take bold ownership of the country’s future.
“Independence for a country like Sierra Leone is a journey,” Dr. Jalloh declared. “Imperfect in many ways, but necessary to deliver a future where the aspirations of the past and generations unborn converge around the hope of a more prosperous tomorrow.”
He reminded the audience that the celebration of Independence Day is not just a ceremonial event, but a moment to re-evaluate the nation’s progress, confront its challenges, and rekindle its shared destiny. “The value of celebrating Independence Day is that it serves as a constant reminder of the task we inherited, the task at hand, and the task ahead,” he said.
The Vice President’s address carried a profound message: that Sierra Leone’s progress depends not just on political leadership, but on the active engagement and responsibility of every citizen. He urged all Sierra Leoneans—young and old, at home and abroad—to renew their commitment to unity, innovation, and national development.
Underscoring the theme of the symposium, Dr. Jalloh called for a revival of the spirit of “One Country, One People, One Destiny,” emphasizing the need for resilience, creativity, and shared purpose. His message resonated as a rallying cry for a nationwide awakening to the responsibilities of citizenship, especially in a time when the country faces social, economic, and environmental challenges.
The National Independence Symposium is expected to become an annual fixture in Sierra Leone’s commemorative calendar, promoting civic education, historical awareness, and national dialogue. The event also marked a shift in how Sierra Leone approaches its Independence Day celebrations—from a day of parades and speeches to a day of reflection, engagement, and renewed national commitment.
As the nation continues its path towards inclusive growth and sustainable development, the messages delivered at the symposium serve as a timely reminder: Sierra Leone’s destiny is in the hands of its people.
The journey may be imperfect, but with unity and determination, the country can rise to meet the aspirations of its founding fathers—and those yet to be born.
