SEND-Sierra Leone (SEND-SL), in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs and other key partners, launched a two-day dialogue on gender-based violence (GBV) as part of the ongoing 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Under the theme “United Voices, United Action: Ending Violence Against Women and Children.” The event drew prominent figures to discuss strategies, success stories, and recommendations to address GBV in Sierra Leone.
Among the notable attendees were Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh; Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr Isata Mahoi; Gender Adviser to the President, Madam Mada Kabba; representatives from the Rainbo Initiative; 50/50 Group; Irish Aid; and SEND Sierra Leone, as well as other stakeholders and development partners.
The event’s chairperson, veteran journalist Umaru Fofanah, opened the proceedings by emphasising the significance of the conference in tackling GBV.
In his welcome address, SEND Sierra Leone’s Country Director, Joseph Ayamga, called for collective action to combat harmful practices such as rape, female genital mutilation (FGM), and child marriage.
He urged survivors to become change agents; and he advocated for more robust policies to protect women and girls, emphasising that “The time for change is now.”
Collaborative Efforts highlighted
The Chairperson of the Rainbo Initiative highlighted the organisation’s role in providing psychosocial support for over 2,000 survivors across rural and urban areas, stressing the importance of initiatives like the Real Man Campaign, which challenges harmful gender norms and promotes male accountability in ending GBV.
The Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Mohamed Adi Kella, underscored the ministry’s focus on addressing mental health issues stemming from GBV, and highlighted efforts to align with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which advocates for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.
Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, outlined her ministry’s legislative strides, including the Sexual Violence Act, the Customary Land Rights Act, and the Child Rights Act of 2024.
She commended the First Lady’s Real Man Campaign and emphasised the importance of one-stop centres and toll-free hotlines to support survivors.
Government Commitment
Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, delivered the Keynote address, reaffirming the government’s commitment to combating GBV.
He detailed efforts to improve healthcare access, enhance maternal health services, and implement policy reforms such as the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act.
He also recommended scaling up one-stop centres, establishing forensic labs, and enhancing grassroots community engagement to empower women and girls.
He praised development partners and stakeholders for their contributions and called for sustained collaboration to achieve meaningful change. “Sierra Leone’s progress depends on the well-being of its women and children,” he remarked.
Data-Driven Advocacy
The Rainbo Initiative shared data reporting over 2,000 cases of GBV this year, with Freetown recording the highest number- 31 percent of cases, also emphasising using the statistics to identify hotspots, and tailor interventions.
The two-day dialogue aims to strengthen partnerships and develop actionable strategies to end GBV in Sierra Leone, fostering a safer and more equitable society.
