Sierra Leone has made real progress since independence, but the journey is far from over, says former Pan-African Parliament Vice President Bernadette Lahai.
“We may not be where we want to be, but the fact that we are a sovereign nation is something to celebrate,” she said.
Lahai reflected on how far the country has come since 1961, when it gained independence from Britain under its first Prime Minister, Milton Margai.
She highlighted unity as one of Sierra Leone’s strongest qualities, pointing to the country’s long-standing culture of religious and ethnic tolerance.
But she was also candid about the challenges that remain. Years after an 11-year civil war ended in 2002, and following crises like Ebola, the country is still rebuilding, with its economy feeling the strain of both local and global pressures.
Even so, Lahai says there is reason for hope, but only if the country continues to work together.
“We must move forward with a shared vision and responsibility for our country,” she added.
–ChannelAfrica–
