New York, USA Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, has been confirmed as a featured speaker at the African Economic Global Convergence (AEGC) Summit 2025, which will take place September 21–22, 2025, alongside the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) in New York City. Sierraloaded

The AEGC Summit is a prominent forum for African and international leaders to engage on the continent’s economic agenda. This year’s summit will focus on core issues such as trade, industrialization, innovation, sustainable financing, and ensuring inclusive growth. Sierraloaded

Dr. Bio’s participation is particularly noted for her advocacy and experience in human capital development and women’s leadership. She is internationally known for her “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign and her leadership role with the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), efforts that spotlight the protection, empowerment, and advancement of girls and women. Sierraloaded

Her appearance at AEGC also underscores Sierra Leone’s growing diplomatic engagement under President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s leadership, sending a message that the nation is committed to policies that leave no one behind. Sierraloaded

Key expectations from her address include:

• Emphasis on women’s economic empowerment as essential for national development.

• Call for investment in education, skills training, and human capital to strengthen workforce competitiveness.

• Stress on inclusive governance and policies that ensure marginalized groups benefit.

• Advocacy for partnerships between Africa and global actors in innovation, digital development, and trade expansion.

What This Means:

Dr. Bio’s presence at AEGC 2025 adds momentum to a narrative where Africa is not just a subject of global economic policy but a shaper of it. For Sierra Leone, it reinforces its image as an active participant in international development discussions. For women and youth across Africa, her role serves as a model of leadership and inclusion in high-level global forums.