Officials of the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone have introduced visiting colleagues of counterpart churches across the world to President Ernest Bai Koroma at State House.

Introducing the visitors, Bishop Tom Barnett called them friends who have resolved to live in unity and share peace for the benefit of mankind.

He said they are in Sierra Leone to learn from the people how they survived the difficult and trying times of the war.

The team's leader, Rev. Robert Abboagye-Mensah, said the World Council of Churches followed events during the war in Sierra Leone and Liberia, and they are now here to learn from this country's experiences from violence to peace and stability. "We want to share Sierra Leone's success story in order for other African countries to copy," he said.

Reverend Mensah, on behalf of the team, presented to the Head of State a coloured candle as a symbol of peace, "when lit, to shine for peace."

Responding, President Koroma welcomed the team to Sierra Leone, and thanked them for playing the important role of searching for peace. He said the war has been over since 2002, adding that the church played an important role during the period to usher in peace.

He intimated that Government is currently studying, with a view to implementing, the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).

He said his government is ready to work with the church, as "all of us need to work harder with focus and the right leadership."

Other members of the visiting team were Rev. Angelique Walker-Smith, Ms Anam Gill, Mr. James Macheria and Dr Aruna Gnanadason.

Meanwhile, in a solemn engagement, President Koroma today visited the bereaved family and friends of the late APC MP, Hon. Cecil Osho-Williams, who died yesterday after a short illness. The President said it was a great loss to both the family and the country.