By Emma Black

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has again called for Africa to have a fair voice at the United Nations Security Council, saying it is a deep historical injustice that Africa is still left out. He made this statement during the opening of the Retreat for Permanent Representatives of C-10 Member States, held in Freetown.

As the leader of the C-10 group, President Bio stressed that now is the time for change, noting that Africa’s role in world peace and security is growing stronger, this Retreat is not just another meeting, he told the diplomats, it is a time for us to reflect, unite, and renew our commitment to a cause that is not only African but important to the whole world.

President Bio pointed out important successes over the past year, including when Sierra Leone led the UN Security Council in August 2024 the first time Africa’s lack of seats was openly discussed, since then, the United States has shown support for giving Africa two permanent seats without veto power, and the pact for the future has recognized Africa’s unfair treatment.

Recognition is good, President Bio said, but it must be followed by real action, during the Retreat, delegates will work on three important documents

An African Union Model for a Reformed Security Council, and A Strategic Roadmap, And an Aide-Mémoire to help with global advocacy.

President Bio said these documents would make Africa’s case stronger and more organized for