By Edward Farah Marah
In the heart of West Africa lies a nation blessed with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and resilient people. Yet, despite our shared heritage and dreams, Sierra Leone continues to grapple with unrest — not just political or economic, but social and emotional. Why is peace so elusive?
Echoes of the Past
The scars of our civil war still linger. Though the guns have long gone silent, the trauma, mistrust, and divisions remain. Many communities still feel the weight of injustice, and reconciliation has often been superficial. Without truth and healing, peace becomes a fragile illusion.
Politics Over People
Our political landscape is often marred by tribalism, favoritism, and power struggles. Leaders speak of unity, yet actions often deepen divides. Elections become flashpoints, not celebrations of democracy. When politics is weaponized, peace becomes collateral damage.
Inequality Breeds Instability
Peace cannot flourish where poverty reigns. In Sierra Leone, many struggle daily for food, education, and healthcare. When basic needs go unmet, frustration grows. Economic disparity fuels crime, corruption, and hopelessness all enemies of peace.
The Role of Misinformation
In an age of social media, rumors spread faster than facts. False narratives ignite tensions, especially during crises. Responsible journalism and digital literacy are essential, but often underfunded and undervalued. Without truth, peace cannot stand.
A Crisis of Identity
We often define ourselves by tribe, region, or party forgetting that we are first and foremost Sierra Leoneans. This fractured identity weakens our social fabric. Peace demands that we see each other not as rivals, but as neighbors.
The Way Forward
Peace is not a gift; it is a responsibility. It begins with leadership that listens, with institutions that serve fairly, and with citizens who choose dialogue over division. We must invest in education, justice, and youth empowerment not just infrastructure and slogans.
Let us remember: peace is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice, opportunity, and respect. Sierra Leone deserves better and we, the people, must demand it.