AYV News, March 4, 2026
Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio, hasreceived a warm welcome from the First Lady of the United States of America, Melania Trump, who currently presides over the Security Council as the United States begins its one-month presidency.
“I deeply appreciate her leadership in elevating the critical issue of children in conflict to the forefront of global security discussions,” Dr. Bio added as she participates in the 10113th Meeting of the United Nations Security Council, convened under the agenda of maintaining international peace and security.
The high-level meeting focused on Children, Technology, and Education in Conflict, drawing global attention to the growing challenges faced by millions of children whose education has been disrupted by war, instability and climate-related crises.
Speaking in her dual capacity as First Lady of Sierra Leone and President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), Dr. Bio joined world leaders in calling for urgent and coordinated action.
“In my capacity as First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone and President of OAFLAD, I joined global leaders in raising urgent concerns about the millions of children whose education has been disrupted by war, instability and climate-related crises,” she stated.
The theme of the meeting closely aligns with Dr. Bio’s flagship initiative at OAFLAD — Building Resilience for Women and Children in the Face of War and Climate Change.
She emphasised that across Africa and beyond, children in conflict zones face immense barriers to learning, safety and opportunity, calling for decisive collective action.
“We must act decisively and collectively,” she urged, reaffirming her commitment to protecting vulnerable children and ensuring that every child — particularly the girl child — has access to safe, inclusive and quality education regardless of circumstance.
Deliberations at the Council also highlighted the transformative role of technology in expanding educational access for displaced and conflict-affected children.
However, Dr. Bio warned of the dangers associated with digital exposure in fragile settings, including online exploitation, trafficking and abuse.
“Technology must empower and protect — never endanger,” she concluded.
Observers note that Dr. Bio’s participation underscores Sierra Leone’s growing engagement in global conversations on peace, security and human development, particularly concerning the rights and protection of children affected by conflict and climate change.
