Sierra Leone is poised to host a significant event for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), underscoring its commitment to regional cooperation and legal development.

Scheduled to commence on May 13th, 2024, in Freetown, the four-day ECOWAS Court of Justice conference will witness the participation of President Julius Maada Bio, affirming Sierra Leone's pivotal role in advancing regional judicial collaboration.

Themed "Enhancing the role, relevance, and effectiveness of the ECOWAS Court of Justice through the strengthening of synergies between the Court and national stakeholders," the conference signifies a concerted effort to bolster the Court's impact within the West African community.

President Bio's endorsement of the event reflects Sierra Leone's unwavering dedication to fostering a conducive environment for international discourse and cooperation. His assurance of full government support underscores the nation's renowned hospitality and commitment to facilitating successful multilateral engagements.

Acknowledging Sierra Leone's significance as the host country, Justice Edward Amoako Asante, President of the ECOWAS Court, lauded the proactive measures taken by the local organizing committee to ensure inclusivity and effectiveness in conference preparations.

This landmark gathering will bring together a diverse array of stakeholders, including legal luminaries, scholars, jurists, and Chief Justices from ECOWAS member states, to deliberate on pressing issues confronting the region's legal landscape.

Notably, this conference marks a historic milestone for Sierra Leone as it hosts the ECOWAS Court conference for the first time since its inception in Dakar, Senegal, in 2004. The occasion symbolizes the nation's evolving role as a regional hub for legal dialogue and cooperation.

Ahead of the conference, a delegation from the ECOWAS Court, led by Justice Amoako Asante, engaged in substantive discussions with Sierra Leonean government officials. Meetings with the acting Chief Justice, Honorable Justice N Browne-Marke, and the Attorney General, Mohamed Lamin Tarawalley, centered on ensuring seamless coordination and logistical arrangements for the event.

Justice Amoako Asante elucidated that the conference aims to facilitate constructive dialogues on enhancing the Court's engagement with national stakeholders, thereby fortifying its efficacy and relevance in addressing regional legal challenges.

As Sierra Leone prepares to welcome esteemed guests and participants to this pivotal conference, it reaffirms its commitment to advancing the ideals of justice, cooperation, and regional integration within the ECOWAS community.