The alleged rape and subsequent death of eight-year-old Kajata Jalloh has sparked national outrage in Sierra Leone, underscoring the country’s ongoing struggle with sexual and gender-based violence.
The incident reportedly involves a teacher at Filmond Preparatory School, and calls for swift action are mounting as advocates, led by the Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ), demand accountability and justice.
Kajata Jalloh’s tragic death, following alleged sexual assault and poisoning, has reignited urgent calls for comprehensive reform and enforcement of Sierra Leone’s child protection laws. This is the latest in a series of high-profile cases highlighting the country’s struggle with child sexual abuse, following the 2020 case of Kadija Saccoh, which similarly shocked the nation.
The Sexual Offences Act, amended in 2019, mandates life imprisonment for individuals convicted of sexually assaulting minors. However, despite stringent legal provisions, cases of child sexual abuse continue to surface. ILRAJ contends that while the law is robust, enforcement and accountability remain inconsistent, creating a climate of impunity for perpetrators of sexual violence.
“This tragedy lays bare critical gaps in the enforcement of our child protection laws,” ILRAJ stated. “We urge the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, the Sierra Leone Police, and the judiciary to ensure that every aspect of this case is meticulously investigated, with full transparency, to secure justice for Kajata Jalloh.”
The organization is also calling on the Ministry of Education to institute stronger vetting and child safety measures in schools, including background checks and mandatory child protection training for all teaching staff. “Principals must prioritize child safety by recruiting staff who meet high ethical and professional standards, safeguarding students from harm,” ILRAJ noted.
In 2019, President Julius Maada Bio declared a “national emergency” on rape, a response to rising incidents of sexual violence across the country. Despite this, advocates argue that sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) remains alarmingly prevalent, underscoring the need for both immediate and long-term preventative measures.
ILRAJ has called on the government to increase investments in child protection programs, implement mandatory training on child abuse prevention for educators, and offer psychosocial support for Kajata’s family, classmates, and teachers.
The advocacy group also appealed to Sierra Leoneans to stand united in demanding justice for Kajata Jalloh, as well as systemic change to protect future generations.
