The International Conference on “Constellating Peace” opened with a compelling keynote address by Hon. Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, who underscored the critical role of community-centered approaches in peacebuilding. Speaking to an audience of international delegates, he reflected on Sierra Leone’s journey toward sustainable peace, particularly in the aftermath of the country’s civil war and public health crises, emphasizing the need for both top-down and grassroots strategies.
Vice President Jalloh highlighted the significant role of women in peace processes, stating that inclusive agreements tend to have a more lasting impact. “The work you are doing will not only enrich your endeavors but also contribute to making the world a better place,” he remarked, acknowledging the global movement to incorporate gender perspectives into peacebuilding efforts.
A central theme of the conference was the importance of the peacebuilding process itself, with speakers emphasizing the “One Fambul” model. This
innovative framework evolved from post-conflict reconciliation efforts. A film clip showcasing the reconciliation process in Dabu, Sierra Leone, vividly illustrated the emotional healing journey after the civil war. Vice President Jalloh called for a transformative shift from traditional top-down methods to more inclusive models that focus on the needs of marginalized communities. “Peacebuilding cannot be limited to macro-level systems,” he stated, stressing that grassroots engagement and community participation are equally vital for effective rebuilding.
Vice President Jalloh praised the efforts of Catalyst for Peace and Fambul Tok, the conference organizers, for their dedication to fostering peace through community-led initiatives. He emphasized the importance of the “One Fambul Framework,” a government initiative that aligns community priorities with national development strategies. The framework, he noted, has been instrumental in addressing issues such as youth drug abuse, conflict resolution, and foste
ring social stability.
The Minister of Local Government, Ambassador Tamba Lamina, also reinforced the importance of the “One Fambul Framework” in fostering peace and reconciliation. He explained how this government-adopted model places communities at the center of peacebuilding efforts, empowering local leaders to resolve conflicts and prioritize development. Ambassador Lamina praised the collaboration between ministries and international partners, which has led to successful conflict resolution and sustainable development in rural areas.
The conference will feature discussions, workshops, and presentations to promote cross-cultural knowledge exchange and strengthen community-driven peace efforts. In her vote of thanks, Madam Hawa Sally Samai, Executive of the Independent Commission for Peace and Cohesion, expressed profound gratitude to the Vice President for his insightful remarks, noting that they had provided a valuable learning experience for all attendees. She thanked the diverse participants for thei
r contributions, emphasizing the importance of their engagement in advancing peace.
The significance of the conference was further underscored by Hon. Madam Manty Tarawally, Minister of State, who served as chair lady of the occasion. She lauded Sierra Leone’s recognition as one of Africa’s most peaceful countries, as ranked by the 2024 Global Peace Index. Hon. Tarawally reiterated that peace extends beyond the mere absence of conflict, highlighting the “One Fambul Framework” as a crucial tool for inclusive development and sustainable peace.
As the conference unfolds, participants are expected to explore collaborative strategies to foster resilience and sustainable peace in Sierra Leone and beyond. The Vice President was optimistic that this international gathering would cultivate a global network to advance community-centered peacebuilding initiatives
Source: Sierra Leone News Agency
