Freetown, 19th January, 2026 — Sierra Leone has officially observed its first National Day of Remembrance, declared by President Julius Maada Bio to honour victims of the country’s brutal 11-year civil war. The commemoration, held on January 18, marks the anniversary of the public announcement of the war’s end, which claimed more than 50,000 lives and left deep scars on the nation’s social fabric.
Civil society organization Fambul Tok Sierra Leone welcomed the declaration, describing it as “historic, timely, and deeply rooted in the conscience of a nation that has known the true cost of war.” The group, which has led grassroots reconciliation efforts across the country, said the day gives renewed dignity to victims and purpose to Sierra Leone’s collective resolve for peace.
The move fulfills a key recommendation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), which urged the establishment of a national day to remember the past, honour victims, and reaffirm commitment to peace.
While praising the government’s action, Fambul Tok stressed that remembrance must be matched with responsibility. The organization called for a renewed and inclusive national reparations program, noting that many survivors continue to live with physical injuries, psychological trauma, and economic hardship.
“Remembrance without reparative action risks becoming symbolic rather than transformative,” the group warned, adding that reparations should be treated not as charity but as a moral obligation and a peacebuilding investment.
Fambul Tok also urged the private sector to play a role in reparations, pointing out that some enterprises continued operations or benefited during the war years. Contributions from banks, trading companies, and other institutions to survivor support and community development would demonstrate corporate responsibility and strengthen reconciliation, the group said.
The TRC had cautioned that the causes of Sierra Leone’s conflict, including political intolerance, youth marginalization, unemployment, corruption, and abuse of power have not disappeared simply because the war ended.
Fambul Tok echoed this warning, urging Sierra Leoneans to reject violence and hostility in politics, workplaces, and communities. “Differences are inevitable in a democracy, but violence is never an option,” the statement emphasized.
The organization concluded that the true legacy of the National Day of Remembrance will be measured not only by honoring victims but by translating remembrance into justice, reparations, and everyday peace.
