President Bio Leads Sierra Leone’s 65th Independence Anniversary Interfaith Thanksgiving Service at State House
By: Reginald Brian Ojukutu Sawyerr
As part of activities marking Sierra Leone’s 65th Independence Anniversary, President Julius Maada Bio, on 27th April 2026, joined religious leaders, government officials, and distinguished guests at State House for an Interfaith Thanksgiving Service aimed at seeking God’s blessings, peace, and continued prosperity for the nation.
The solemn but inspiring service, which lasted for about 50 minutes, brought together Christian and Muslim leaders in a strong display of national unity, reflection, and gratitude as Sierra Leone celebrates 65 years of independence.
President Bio actively participated in the service and delivered the Scripture Reading from Psalm 33:1-12, a passage centred on righteousness, justice, and the blessings of a nation whose God is the Lord.
The Christian segment of the program featured an exhortation delivered by Rev. S.E.K. Fallah, who called on Sierra Leoneans to remain united, prayerful, and committed to national development.
Special prayers were offered for the First Family and the Government by Rev. Tamba Bayoh, while the Chairman of the Inter-Religious Council, Rev. Charles, led prayers for the country and its people, asking for peace, wisdom, and divine guidance for the nation’s leadership.
The Muslim service also formed a significant part of the interfaith gathering, with Quranic recitation by Mohamed Tafsir Bah, followed by a brief Islamic lecture delivered by Sheikh Issa Ghali Sesay, who emphasised the importance of national peace, tolerance, and collective responsibility in nation-building.
The service concluded with Duaa (supplication) offered by Sheikh Ismail Koroma, praying for Sierra Leone’s continued stability, progress, and unity among its citizens.
The Interfaith Thanksgiving Service once again reflected Sierra Leone’s spirit of religious harmony and national togetherness, reinforcing the importance of faith and unity in the country’s democratic and developmental journey.
As the nation celebrates 65 years of independence, the message from State House remained clear: unity, peace, and collective responsibility are essential for building a stronger Sierra Leone.
