AYV News, February 19, 2025
Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has dedicated her successes at the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), to her dear husband, President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio.
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio said: “Your steadfast support, guidance, and unwavering belief in me have been my pillar of strength. You are not just my partner in life, but also my greatest source of encouragement in this journey of service. Your leadership, vision, and commitment to our nation continue to inspire me, and for that, I am eternally grateful”.
She assured that they will continue to champion causes that uplift their people, empower their women, and secure a brighter future for the next generation, while thanking Sierra Leone for believing in her, for standing with her, and for sharing this journey of hope, progress, and unity.
She said: “I am overwhelmed with gratitude and deep appreciation for the love, trust, and unwavering support you continue to show me. Seeing thousands of you come out to celebrate our return is a moment I will cherish forever. Your presence, your cheers, and your belief in the work we are doing inspire me to keep pushing forward for the development of our beloved nation.
“Returning from the 29th General Assembly of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), where I was honored with the responsibility of leading at a continental level, I am reminded that none of this would be possible without the strength and unity of our people. This victory is not mine alone—it belongs to all of us who believe in the power of transformation and the limitless potential of Sierra Leone”.
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio was elected President of the OAFLADat the 29th General Assembly held during the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She will serve a two-year mandate, following a closely contested election against Her Excellency Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Her Excellency Dr. Ana Dias Lourenço, First Lady of Angola, was elected as Vice President of OAFLAD. The announcement was made after a closed-session deliberation on day four of the African Union Summit, where all African First Ladies cast their votes.
In his congratulatory message, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, described his wife’s election as “a huge success,” emphasising her unwavering commitment to championing the rights and empowerment of women and girls. “Your dedication is nothing short of inspiring,” President Bio remarked. “I am excited to see how, in this new role, you will amplify the voices of women and girls across Africa. Let’s go, Fatima!”
The official announcement from OAFLAD stated, “We are delighted to confirm the election results. Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of Sierra Leone, is the new President of OAFLAD, and Her Excellency Dr. Ana Dias Lourenço, First Lady of Angola, is the Vice President.”
Following the announcement, First Lady Fatima Maada Bio received congratulatory messages from First Ladies across Africa, including Her Excellency Mrs. Rachel Ruto, First Lady of the Republic of Kenya, who expressed her support for the newly elected leadership.
The Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) was established in 2002 as the Organisation of African First Ladies Against HIV/AIDS (OAFLA) to provide a united voice for Africa’s most vulnerable populations, particularly women and children affected by HIV and AIDS. Over the years, OAFLAD has evolved into a prominent continental platform advocating for women’s empowerment, maternal and child health, and a broad range of development issues.
Under the leadership of Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, OAFLAD is poised to further its mission of empowering women and girls across Africa, building on her legacy of advocacy and commitment to social development.
