Sierra Leone News Agency - SLENA, 15 Wallace Johnson Street, Freetown (2026)

02/06/2026

BRAC and Ministry of Social Welfare Sign MOU to Strengthen Support for Vulnerable Communities

Freetown, June 2, 2026 (SLENA)-BRAC, one of the world’s largest non-governmental development organizations, on 1st June 2026 signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Social Welfare at the Ministry’s Conference Hall in Freetown. The agreement is aimed at strengthening social welfare initiatives, promoting sustainable development, and addressing pressing social challenges affecting vulnerable communities in Sierra Leone.

The partnership marks an important step in advancing collaborative efforts to improve the lives of marginalized groups, including women, children, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and extremely poor households. It also reflects a shared commitment to social justice, inclusion, and poverty reduction.

In her welcome address, the Minister of Social Welfare, Hon. Melrose Karminty, thanked BRAC for what she described as an important and timely partnership.

She said the signing of the agreement would further strengthen cooperation between the Ministry and BRAC, noting that no ministry can effectively serve the people alone without strong partnerships built on trust and shared purpose.

Minister Karminty gave a brief overview of the Ministry’s structure, including its political, administrative, and professional leadership, as well as its agencies and four directorates.

She emphasized that the Ministry’s vision aligns closely with that of BRAC, particularly in addressing poverty, supporting marginalized and underprivileged communities, promoting social inclusion, and advancing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.

She also noted that the Ministry remains committed to providing a supportive environment for development partners.

According to her, the Ministry of Social Welfare plays a vital role in maintaining peace, stability, and social protection, yet it continues to face limited funding. For that reason, she said, partnerships with organizations such as BRAC are both necessary and significant.

The Minister further described the MOU as a binding framework that will enable both institutions to deliver more effective services to the people of Sierra Leone. She reaffirmed her commitment to the partnership and commended BRAC for what she called a laudable initiative.

Speaking on behalf of BRAC Sierra Leone, Mr. Adolphus B.N. Doe, Country Director, expressed appreciation to the Ministry’s leadership for the opportunity to formalize the partnership. He said BRAC’s work focuses largely on vulnerable populations, especially children, adolescent girls, and young women.

Mr. Doe explained that BRAC operates in Sierra Leone through two entities: its NGO arm, which focuses on social development, and BRAC Microfinance, which promotes economic empowerment. He noted that the organization is currently implementing two major programmes in the country one in education and the other in youth empowerment both of which naturally align BRAC’s work with the mandate of the Ministry of Social Welfare.

He disclosed that one of BRAC’s ongoing projects in Sierra Leone is expected to target 200,000 adolescent girls and young women between the ages of 12 and 35. He said the project includes a strong social empowerment component focused on behavioural change, life skills training, and inclusion for persons with disabilities.

Mr. Doe added that BRAC is also working with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education to promote early child protection and to support the development of a parental manual. He further highlighted BRAC’s Ultra-Poor Graduation Programme, which is designed to assist extremely poor households in moving out of extreme poverty through targeted development support.

He said these programmes will enable BRAC to work more closely with the Ministry of Social Welfare and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to building a lasting and productive relationship. He described the signing of the agreement as the beginning of a stronger partnership and expressed BRAC’s readiness to continue supporting the Ministry in every way possible.

The key objectives of the Memorandum of Understanding include enhancing social protection through joint programmes that provide vulnerable populations with access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.

The agreement also seeks to strengthen capacity building through training and resources for girls and young women, while supporting the joint implementation of empowerment programmes, including skills training for women, support for the elderly, and initiatives that promote inclusion and economic participation for persons with disabilities.

The MOU was officially signed by Hon. Minister Melrose Karminty and Mr. Adolphus B.N. Doe, Country Director of BRAC Sierra Leone. The signing formalizes cooperation between the two institutions and reinforces their shared resolve to address social challenges through coordinated action.

The agreement is expected to improve collaboration, strengthen service delivery, and maximize the use of resources in tackling some of the country’s most urgent social welfare concerns.

Correspondent.Joel Foday Dumbuya
Ministry of Social Welfare

02/06/2026

MoGCA Strengthens Partnership with Trocaire to Advance Women’s Leadership and Empowerment Through NEWMaP

Freetown, June 2, 2026 (SLENA)-The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s leadership, mentorship, and empowerment following a high-level strategic engagement with representatives of Trocaire and key stakeholders on Monday.

The meeting focused on strengthening policies, frameworks, and collaborative interventions through the Network of Women Ministers and Parliamentarians (NEWMaP), a platform designed to promote women’s participation in governance and decision-making in Sierra Leone.

The Trocaire delegation included Women’s Empowerment Programme Technical Lead Sudie Austina Sellu, GBV and Inclusion Technical Lead Maurice Pewa, Social Norms and Women’s Empowerment Global Advisor Laurelle Mbaraza, and Business Development and Grant Manager Sara Leicester.

Chairing the meeting, Sahr Kendema of the Campaign for Good Governance (CGG) welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration in promoting women’s political participation and empowerment nationwide.

Providing an overview of NEWMaP, CoordinaHannah Lahai Robinson, tor of the NEWMaP Secretariat Hannah,e network is committed to strengthening women’s rights and leadership through the implementation of its strategic plan, launched in August 2025. She stressed the importance of bringing together female ministers, parliamentarians, and councillors to improve coordination and collective advocacy on gender issues.

Speaking on public engagement and visibility, NEWMaP representative Maxwella Sesay said the network has established media and online platforms to increase awareness of its work and expand public understanding of women’s empowerment initiatives. She noted that the platforms will also help promote the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act and highlight the network’s advocacy campaigns, achievements, and success stories.

Also speaking at the meeting, Head of Programmes at Rainbo Initiative Bob Lamin highlighted the organization’s continued work in addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) nationwide. He said Rainbo Initiative has established operational one-stop centres in Bombali, Port Loko, and Kambia, where survivors can access comprehensive support services. He further underscored the role of Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) and community engagement initiatives in promoting women’s rights and economic empowerment at the grassroots level.

Giving historical context to the formation of NEWMaP, Sahr Kendema said the network was created to support government efforts to enhance women’s capacity and participation in governance. He explained that the GEWE Act was introduced to address structural barriers affecting women and to promote gender equality across all sectors of society.

Kendema also noted that the revitalization of the network, driven by the active participation of female parliamentarians and ministers, marks an important step forward. He described the newly developed strategic plan as a roadmap for strengthening the network’s effectiveness and long-term impact, while commending MoGCA for its commitment to collaboration and support for the establishment of the NEWMaP Secretariat.

Chief Director of MoGCA Charles Vandi praised Trocaire and CGG for their continued support in promoting women’s advancement and leadership. He said the network required renewed energy and focus to respond to present-day challenges affecting women and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to creating greater opportunities for women’s empowerment.

“The struggle for womanhood is about freeing women from the social barriers that continue to hinder their progress. We are grateful to our partners, CGG and Trocaire, for championing the advancement of women across Sierra Leone,” Vandi said.

In her keynote address, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs Dr. Isata Mahoi welcomed the delegation and underscored the importance of reviving NEWMaP as a platform for stronger collaboration among women in leadership.

“There was a need to revive the organization,” Dr. Mahoi said. “The vision is to create a platform where women in leadership can coordinate effectively and work collectively to strengthen women’s representation and participation, particularly in decision-making positions.”

Dr. Mahoi commended Trocaire for its continued support to women’s leadership development, capacity-building programmes, and empowerment initiatives. She also called for deeper collaboration to ensure sustainable progress in addressing the challenges facing women in politics and public life.

She highlighted persistent barriers such as gender discrimination, marginalization, limited support systems, and societal norms that continue to discourage women from actively participating in leadership. According to the Minister, NEWMaP provides an important platform for women to amplify their voices and expand their representation in governance and national affairs.

Looking ahead, Dr. Mahoi identified key priority areas for future collaboration, including the organization of a national women’s conference to assess the status of women in Sierra Leone, increased resources for Ministry programmes, stronger use of the media for advocacy and public education, and additional staffing support for the network.

The meeting ended with a shared call for stronger partnerships, increased investment, and coordinated action to accelerate women’s empowerment and expand women’s participation in leadership and decision-making across Sierra Leone.

Correspondent-Kelvin Mark Kargbo
Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs (MoGCA)
Communications Unit

02/06/2026

Sierra Leone Joins Korea-Africa Senior Officials Meeting in Seoul

Seoul, Republic of Korea, May 31, 2026 — Sierra Leone on Sunday joined delegates from across Africa and the Republic of Korea at the Korea–Africa Senior Officials Meeting held at the Crystal Ballroom of the Lotte Hotel Seoul, ahead of the Korea–Africa Ministerial Meeting scheduled for June 1.

Held under the theme, “Partnership for Joint Responses to Global Challenges,” the meeting brought together representatives from more than 50 African countries, the Republic of Korea, the African Union, the African Development Bank, the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation and responding to shared global challenges.

Sierra Leone’s delegation included Mr. Momodu Adama Wurie, Deputy Director-General for Policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Dr. David Sidikie Yambasu, Senior Technical Adviser to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. They were accompanied by Ambassador Paul Sobba Massaquoi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Sierra Leone to the Republic of Korea; Ms. Rachel Musu Kanu, Head of Chancery at the Embassy of Sierra Leone in Seoul; and other diplomatic staff of the mission.

Opening the meeting, Ms. Chung Eui-hae, Deputy Minister for Political Affairs of the Republic of Korea, welcomed delegates to Seoul and underscored the growing importance of Korea–Africa cooperation at a time of increasing global uncertainty. She highlighted key concerns including economic pressures, supply chain disruptions, food and energy insecurity, public health threats, and rapid technological change.

Deputy Minister Chung said Africa and the Republic of Korea share common interests and challenges, and stressed the need for stronger partnerships that promote sustainable development, economic resilience, innovation, and shared prosperity. She expressed confidence that deliberations at the Senior Officials Meeting would significantly inform preparations for the Ministerial Meeting and deepen cooperation between both sides.

Discussions covered several priority areas, including agriculture, digital transformation, infrastructure development, healthcare, trade, investment, human resource development, and capacity building. Delegates also reviewed progress made since the inaugural Korea–Africa Summit and examined practical steps for implementing commitments already agreed upon by leaders from Africa and the Republic of Korea.

A key item on the agenda was the proposed joint statement expected to be adopted at the close of the Korea–Africa Ministerial Meeting. The document is expected to provide a framework for future cooperation and outline shared priorities for strengthening Africa–Korea relations.

Speaking during the engagement, Ambassador Paul Sobba Massaquoi welcomed the continued expansion of Africa–Korea relations and emphasized the importance of ensuring that the proposed joint statement reflects the development priorities and aspirations of African countries.

He said Sierra Leone values its growing partnership with the Republic of Korea and remains committed to advancing cooperation in areas that support sustainable development, economic transformation, investment, innovation, capacity building, and mutually beneficial engagement. He added that the meeting provides an important platform for dialogue, collaboration, and stronger ties between African countries and the Republic of Korea.

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation and promoting practical partnerships capable of addressing emerging global challenges while supporting inclusive growth and sustainable development. The outcomes of the Senior Officials Meeting will feed into discussions at the Korea–Africa Ministerial Meeting, where ministers are expected to adopt a joint statement outlining a roadmap for future cooperation.

Sierra Leone also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation with the Republic of Korea and to supporting initiatives that promote shared prosperity, sustainable development, and stronger Africa–Korea relations.

Michaella Bonnie
Information Attaché
Embassy of Sierra Leone, Republic of Korea

02/06/2026

Sierra Leone Joins Korea–Africa Senior Officials Meeting in Seoul

Seoul, Republic of Korea, May 31, 2026-Sierra Leone on Sunday joined delegates from across Africa and the Republic of Korea at the Korea–Africa Senior Officials Meeting held at the Crystal Ballroom of the Lotte Hotel Seoul, ahead of the Korea–Africa Ministerial Meeting scheduled for June 1.

Held under the theme, “Partnership for Joint Responses to Global Challenges,” the meeting brought together representatives from more than 50 African countries, the Republic of Korea, the African Union, the African Development Bank, the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation and responding to shared global challenges.

Sierra Leone’s delegation included Mr. Momodu Adama Wurie, Deputy Director-General for Policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Dr. David Sidikie Yambasu, Senior Technical Adviser to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. They were accompanied by Ambassador Paul Sobba Massaquoi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Sierra Leone to the Republic of Korea; Ms. Rachel Musu Kanu, Head of Chancery at the Embassy of Sierra Leone in Seoul; and other diplomatic staff of the mission.

Opening the meeting, Ms. Chung Eui-hae, Deputy Minister for Political Affairs of the Republic of Korea, welcomed delegates to Seoul and underscored the growing importance of Korea–Africa cooperation at a time of increasing global uncertainty. She highlighted key concerns including economic pressures, supply chain disruptions, food and energy insecurity, public health threats, and rapid technological change.

Deputy Minister Chung said Africa and the Republic of Korea share common interests and challenges, and stressed the need for stronger partnerships that promote sustainable development, economic resilience, innovation, and shared prosperity. She expressed confidence that deliberations at the Senior Officials Meeting would significantly inform preparations for the Ministerial Meeting and deepen cooperation between both sides.

Discussions covered several priority areas, including agriculture, digital transformation, infrastructure development, healthcare, trade, investment, human resource development, and capacity building. Delegates also reviewed progress made since the inaugural Korea–Africa Summit and examined practical steps for implementing commitments already agreed upon by leaders from Africa and the Republic of Korea.

A key item on the agenda was the proposed joint statement expected to be adopted at the close of the Korea–Africa Ministerial Meeting. The document is expected to provide a framework for future cooperation and outline shared priorities for strengthening Africa–Korea relations.

Speaking during the engagement, Ambassador Paul Sobba Massaquoi welcomed the continued expansion of Africa–Korea relations and emphasized the importance of ensuring that the proposed joint statement reflects the development priorities and aspirations of African countries.

He said Sierra Leone values its growing partnership with the Republic of Korea and remains committed to advancing cooperation in areas that support sustainable development, economic transformation, investment, innovation, capacity building, and mutually beneficial engagement. He added that the meeting provides an important platform for dialogue, collaboration, and stronger ties between African countries and the Republic of Korea.

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation and promoting practical partnerships capable of addressing emerging global challenges while supporting inclusive growth and sustainable development. The outcomes of the Senior Officials Meeting will feed into discussions at the Korea–Africa Ministerial Meeting, where ministers are expected to adopt a joint statement outlining a roadmap for future cooperation.

Sierra Leone also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation with the Republic of Korea and to supporting initiatives that promote shared prosperity, sustainable development, and stronger Africa–Korea relations.

Michaella Bonnie
Information Attaché
Embassy of Sierra Leone, Republic of Korea

01/06/2026

Sierra Leonean Pilgrims Complete Hajj Rites as Return Flights Begin June 6

MAKKAH, June , 2026-All 2,626 Sierra Leonean pilgrims participating in the 1447H/2026 Hajj have completed Tawaf al-Ifadah, also known as Tawaf az-Ziyarah, marking the completion of the main rites of the pilgrimage.

The pilgrims performed the circumambulation of the Kaaba after completing the stoning of the Jamarat between Wednesday and Friday. They also observed two rak’ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim and completed Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, commemorating Hajar’s search for water for her son, Prophet Ismail. With the completion of Sa’i, the four main pillars of Hajj have now been fulfilled. The only rite remaining is Tawaf al-Wada, the farewell circumambulation of the Kaaba, which is performed seven times before departure.

Dr. Chernor Ibrahim Bah, popularly known as Dokal and Head of Rituals for the Presidential Hajj Taskforce, said the Taskforce paid for 826 lambs through the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Affairs portal. He explained that the Islamic Development Bank carried out the slaughter on Thursday, 28 May 2026, on behalf of Sierra Leonean pilgrims performing Tamattu—those who performed Umrah before Hajj. He noted that the sacrifice is compulsory for pilgrims in that category.

Most of the Sierra Leonean pilgrims are staying at Diyar Al Sa’ad Hotel and praying at Masjid al-Haram. Others accommodated at Al Olayan Diamond Hotel, located about 15 minutes’ drive from the Grand Mosque, are praying at nearby mosques.

Sheikh Alhaji Dyfan Abass Massaquoi, Head of Operations for the Presidential Hajj Taskforce, confirmed that all 2,626 pilgrims are safe and fully accounted for in Makkah. He said the first batch of home-based pilgrims will depart Jeddah for Sierra Leone on 6 June 2026 via Ethiopian Airlines, followed by the second batch on 7 June and the final batch on 9 June 2026. He added that Sierra Leonean pilgrims based in the diaspora will leave on separate flight schedules.

Of the total number of pilgrims, 826 are home-based and registered in Sierra Leone, while 1,800 are Sierra Leoneans living abroad.

Saudi authorities said the movement of pilgrims to Arafat proceeded smoothly, with traffic flowing efficiently throughout the exercise. According to the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), a total of 1,707,301 pilgrims performed the 1447H/2026 Hajj in Makkah. Of that number, 1,546,655 were international pilgrims from 165 nationalities, while 160,646 were citizens and residents of Saudi Arabia. The total included 893,396 male pilgrims and 823,905 female pilgrims.

Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is obligatory for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake it. This year’s pilgrimage took place from 25 to 30 May 2026, corresponding to 8–12 Dhul-Hijjah 1447H.

Alhaji Abubakarr Bah
Information Attaché
Embassy of Sierra Leone, Saudi Arabia
[email protected]

01/06/2026

EU, Sierra Leone Deepen 50-Year Partnership on Growth, Democracy and Security

Freetown, June 1, 2026 (SLENA)-Sierra Leone and the European Union have renewed their commitment to a long-standing partnership focused on development, trade, democracy and regional security during this year’s Europe Day celebration on the 29th May 2026 in Freetown.

Speaking before senior government officials, diplomats, parliamentarians, religious leaders, civil society representatives and members of the media, the EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone, H.E. Jacek Janknowski, described the relationship as one built on shared values, mutual respect and a common commitment to peace and progress.

Reflecting on the origins of European unity, the ambassador recalled the 1950 Schuman Declaration, which promoted the idea that former enemies could become lasting partners through cooperation and shared interests. He said Sierra Leone’s own journey from civil conflict to peace and national dialogue gives the country a deep understanding of that vision.

The ambassador said Sierra Leone and Europe have shared a history marked by struggle, resilience, peacebuilding and development, adding that this year’s celebration underscores the strength of a partnership that has endured for five decades.

He noted that over 50 years, the European Union has committed about 1.7 billion euros to Sierra Leone’s economy, including nearly half a billion euros in direct budget support. He said the EU remains the only development partner providing grant support directly to Sierra Leone’s national budget, enabling the country to pursue its own development priorities.

According to the ambassador, the EU maintained its support even during Sierra Leone’s most difficult periods, including the civil war, post-war reconstruction, successive elections, the Ebola outbreak and the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said the European Union is now seeking to deepen its engagement by supporting infrastructure development, green and digital transformation, and agricultural value chains. He added that European private sector investment will be central to that effort.

On trade, the ambassador described the EU as a strong business partner for Sierra Leone and said the bloc wants to see the country become a more attractive destination for European investment and a stronger supplier to the European single market. He also announced plans for the establishment of a European Union Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone to strengthen commercial ties.

He further noted that 20 years have passed since the EU launched its development initiative, which gives Sierra Leone and other eligible countries duty-free and quota-free access to the European market. While acknowledging concerns about market standards, he said European requirements on quality, safety and climate responsibility should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a barrier, adding that the EU is prepared to help Sierra Leone build the capacity needed to meet those standards and improve its global competitiveness.

The occasion featured the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, as Guest of Honor, who praised the EU’s contribution to the country’s national development and democratic progress. He commended the bloc and other international partners for supporting democratic institutions, electoral processes, justice sector reforms and civic participation over the years.

Minister highlighted government commitment to strengthening political dialogue, institutional reform, national cohesion and democratic stability, describing democracy as a continuous process that depends on tolerance, accountability, strong institutions and inclusive governance.

Looking ahead, he said Sierra Leone welcomed deeper cooperation under the EU’s Global Gateway initiative, which it said offers major opportunities for investment in sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy, digital transformation, transport, education, healthcare and private sector development.

He reinforced that the government remains committed to working closely with the European Union to ensure that the initiative delivers tangible benefits for citizens, especially young people, while promoting transparency, accountability and local ownership.

He identified renewable energy, sustainable mining, maritime security, climate adaptation, agricultural value chains, digital innovation and skills development as key areas for future cooperation, saying those sectors are essential to building resilience and advancing Sierra Leone’s development ambitions.

Beyond development and trade, the ceremony also highlighted broader international concerns, including peace and security in West Africa and the Sahel. Sierra Leone stressed the growing threat of terrorism in the region and called for stronger regional cooperation and international partnership to address the challenge.

Minister added that Sierra Leone will continue to engage with the European Union in support of multilateralism, peace, security and development, while reaffirming shared commitments to democracy, human rights, constitutional governance and the rule of law.

The event ended with a toast to continued friendship, partnership and shared prosperity between Sierra Leone and the European Union.

Senior Correspondent-Amara Kargbo
MFAIC
Email: [email protected]

01/06/2026

MoGCA Concludes Northern Regional Validation Workshop on Child Safeguarding Policy

Freetown, June 1, 2026 (SLENA)-The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs has concluded a regional validation workshop on the Child Safeguarding Policy, bringing together key stakeholders from across Makeni, Bombali District, Northern Region to review and strengthen measures aimed at protecting children from abuse, violence, neglect, and exploitation.

Held in Makeni, the workshop attracted officials from the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, the Ministry of Social Welfare, District Child Protection Officers, members of Child-Friendly Networks, and child protection advocates.

In his welcome address, the Assistant Director of the Ministry in Bombali District, Gassimu Sesay, welcomed participants and underscored the importance of the validation exercise. He encouraged attendees to share their experiences and recommendations to help enrich the policy and support its effective implementation.

During the opening session, Bashiru Thullah Esq., Assistant Director at the Ministry’s headquarters, delivered a presentation on the background, context, and significance of the Child Safeguarding Policy. He said safeguarding policies are essential tools for protecting children from violence, abuse, and exploitation.

“Every institution should have a safeguarding policy,” Mr. Thullah said, noting that the policy provides a comprehensive framework for promoting child welfare, safety, and legal protection.

He explained that the policy recognizes the rights of all children under the age of 18 and seeks to prevent discrimination and exclusion from education, social services, and welfare opportunities. He also highlighted different forms of child abuse, including physical violence, sexual abuse, and neglect.

Mr. Thullah further outlined the guiding principles of child safeguarding, including the best interests of the child, child participation, the right to life and development, community involvement, and the principle of doing no harm.

Speaking on institutional responsibilities, he stressed that child protection requires a coordinated approach involving government ministries, law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, families, and communities. He noted that the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, the police, the Ministry of Health, and other stakeholders all have critical roles to play in responding to cases of sexual and gender-based violence and child abuse.

Highlighting the importance of awareness and community engagement, Mr. Thullah called for stronger referral mechanisms and support systems for children in need of alternative care, psychosocial services, and medical attention.

He also outlined prevention strategies, including promoting life skills and education, engaging community and religious leaders, and increasing public awareness of female ge***al mutilation and its harmful effects on children.

The workshop gave participants the opportunity to share recommendations aimed at strengthening child protection systems nationwide. Key suggestions included improving institutional care and support services, strengthening safeguarding cultures within organizations, integrating cyber protection measures to address online risks affecting children, and increasing government investment in child welfare initiatives.

In his closing remarks, the Director of Strategic Planning and Policy, Ibrahim Kamara, thanked participants for their active engagement and commitment to advancing child protection efforts across the Northern Region.

He described the Child Safeguarding Policy as a timely and important framework that will contribute significantly to protecting children and promoting their well-being nationwide. Mr. Kamara also commended stakeholders for their dedication to addressing children’s issues at the district level and encouraged continued collaboration to ensure the policy’s successful implementation.

The workshop ended with a group photograph and a renewed call for collective action to address child protection concerns, including the elimination of harmful practices such as female ge***al mutilation, marking another important step toward safeguarding the rights and welfare of children in Sierra Leone.

Correspondent: Mark Kargbo
MoGCA Communications Unit
Email: [email protected]

Sierra Leone News Agency - SLENA

02/06/2026

02/06/2026

02/06/2026

02/06/2026

01/06/2026

01/06/2026

01/06/2026

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category