Washington, D.C., 24th March 2026 – Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, has represented Sierra Leone at the Fostering the Future Global Coalition Summit held at the U.S. Department of State.

The summit, convened under the special invitation of U.S. First Lady Melania Trump, brought together global leaders and advocates to discuss inclusive solutions for children and communities worldwide.

Speaking in her capacity as President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), Dr. Bio emphasized Africa’s commitment to advancing education, health, and empowerment for women and girls. She highlighted the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in bridging gaps in education, strengthening healthcare systems, and equipping youth with skills for the global economy.

Dr. Bio cautioned that AI must be deployed responsibly and inclusively, ensuring ethical standards and equity. She called for investment in digital literacy, infrastructure, and cross‑border collaboration to harness technology for sustainable development.

Her participation underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing shared challenges and reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s role in shaping global conversations on innovation, equity, and the future of young people.