Sierra Leone Reaffirms Commitment to Refugee Protection at UNHCR Executive Committee Meeting...

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*_Geneva, Switzerland, 13 October 2026 –_* Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to refugee protection, combating statelessness, and promoting durable solutions for displaced populations at the 77th Session of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Executive Committee.

Delivering the country’s statement on behalf of the Government, the Commissioner of the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), Ambassador Chief Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina, highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen national refugee protection systems, improve access to civil documentation, and promote economic inclusion for vulnerable populations.

Under the leadership of His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Sierra Leone remains committed to fulfilling its national and international responsibilities towards refugees. The Government continues to advance efforts to address the country’s residual refugee caseload, strengthen national protection systems, and support refugee-hosting communities. As Sierra Leone reviews its commitments under the Global Refugee Forum, the progress made reflects national ownership and the Government’s determination to promote refugee protection, dignity, inclusion, and sustainable solutions for displaced populations.

Ambassador Ndomahina also disclosed that the Government’s Tenki Salon initiative is advancing 93 development projects across 19 refugee-hosting communities, with approximately 12 sub-projects completed. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to support vulnerable communities and improve local development outcomes.

He called on UNHCR, donor states, and development partners to strengthen collaboration and increase investment in sustainable solutions for refugees, returning citizens, and host communities.

The NaCSA Commissioner further reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to regional cooperation and the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the return of individuals to territories where they face threats to their lives or freedom.

Sierra Leone’s participation in the Executive Committee meeting underscores its continued engagement with the international community to advance refugee protection, strengthen national institutions, and promote lasting solutions for displaced populations.

For further enquiries:

Mohamed Sheriff

Information Attaché | Geneva, Switzerland

Tel: +41 79 175 66 48

Email: m.sheriff@slmge.ch