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EduNations Country Director Pays Courtesy Visit to MoGCA, Reaffirms Commitment to National Development GoalsFreetown, Si...
07/05/2026

EduNations Country Director Pays Courtesy Visit to MoGCA, Reaffirms Commitment to National Development Goals

Freetown, Sierra Leone Tuesday, 5th May 2026
The newly appointed Country Director of EduNations Inc., Rev. Kandeh Koroma, has paid a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) to reaffirm the organization’s commitment to supporting the Ministry’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) targets.

Speaking during the engagement, Rev. Koroma emphasized that it is a priority for him, as the new head of EduNations, to formally engage key government institutions, particularly the Ministry, to strengthen institutional relationships and chart a clear path in advancing their shared mandates.

“It is important for us to maintain strong collaboration with the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs as we work towards achieving national development objectives, especially in areas relating to gender equality and child protection,” Rev. Koroma stated.

Responding on behalf of the Ministry, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Aminata Y. Sannoh, expressed appreciation for the longstanding support EduNations has provided, particularly in promoting child right, access to education for children in remote communities and collaboration with the Ministry.

She reaffirmed the Ministry’s open-door policy towards development partners, highlighting the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable national outcomes.

“The Ministry remains committed to fostering partnerships that contribute meaningfully to national development. We value EduNations’ continuous support and look forward to strengthening this relationship further,” Mrs. Sannoh noted.

Also speaking at the meeting, the Director of Policy and Planning, Mr. Ibrahim Kamara, reiterated the Ministry’s readiness to enhance its Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with partners. He further emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to improving its multifaceted communication systems to ensure timely feedback and effective coordination with stakeholders.

The EduNations delegation was led by Mr. Isaac Boima, while the engagement was facilitated by Mr. Joseph Dennis Koroma, NGO Desk Officer at the Ministry.

The visit marks a renewed phase of collaboration between EduNations and the
The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, aimed at strengthening policy implementation, improving service delivery, and advancing the welfare of women and children across Sierra Leone.

Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs-SL SEND - SIERRA LEONE UNICEF Sierra Leone UNDP in Sierra Leone European Union in Sierra Leone

MoGCA, Partners Strengthen National Child Protection EffortsFreetown, May 5, 2026 — The Ministry of Gender and Children'...
05/05/2026

MoGCA, Partners Strengthen National Child Protection Efforts

Freetown, May 5, 2026 — The Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs (MoGCA), through its Children’s Directorate, today convened a strategic meeting with the Joining Forces coalition to advance child protection initiatives across Sierra Leone.

The engagement brought together leading child-focused organizations including SOS Children's Villages, ChildFund International, and Plan International to review ongoing programmes, share insights, and align strategies aimed at addressing child protection challenges nationwide.

Acting Director of Children’s Affairs, Daniel Albert Gbow, outlined a range of priority interventions being implemented by the Ministry. He emphasized the importance of strengthening legal and policy frameworks, highlighting efforts to roll out and popularize key legislation such as the Child Rights Act. He also referenced the development of a child-friendly version of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, supported by Save the Children.

Gbow further underscored the implementation of the Alternative Care Policy, designed to provide structured support for children facing abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Additional focus areas included the Child Safeguarding Policy and the National Strategy for Children, both aimed at enhancing protective mechanisms for vulnerable children.

Addressing operational challenges, Gbow cited limited human resources as a key constraint affecting service delivery. He disclosed that the Ministry has recently recruited additional personnel to strengthen case management and response services. He also called for targeted capacity-building initiatives for newly recruited protection assistants, particularly in case handling, reporting, and community engagement.

He stressed the importance of sustained advocacy, noting that media platforms such as television and radio would play a critical role in raising awareness on child protection issues at both school and community levels. Gbow appealed to development partners for logistical support, including tools for case management, counselling spaces, and essential materials to improve service delivery within the Children’s Directorate.

Also speaking at the meeting, Assistant Director Laura Koroma highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen legal and institutional response mechanisms. She noted that a draft policy framework developed through stakeholder consultations is currently undergoing validation before formal adoption.

During plenary discussions, representatives of partner organizations commended the Ministry’s leadership and reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration. Country Director of ChildFund International, Mr. Victor Kamara, praised MoGCA’s efforts and emphasized the importance of coordinated partnerships in delivering effective child protection services.

Similar sentiments were echoed by Muniratu Issifu of Plan International and Dionisio Pereira of SOS Children's Villages, who called for more actionable platforms to address pressing child welfare concerns.

The meeting concluded with a guided tour of the Children’s Directorate, where members of Joining Forces assessed existing facilities and identified critical areas requiring support to strengthen the Ministry’s operational capacity.

The engagement marks a renewed commitment by government and partners to enhance coordinated action and build a more resilient child protection system across Sierra Leone.

Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs-SL SEND - SIERRA LEONE Caritas Freetown UNICEF Sierra Leone Save the Children Sierra Leone

Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs-SL SEND - SIERRA LEONE Ministry of Social Welfare UNICEF Sierra Leone Save the Children Sierra Leone European Union in Sierra Leone Defence for Children Sierra Leone National Commission for Social Action

MoGCA Engages Development Partners on Strengthening Child Protection FrameworkFreetown, April 29, 2026 — The Ministry of...
30/04/2026

MoGCA Engages Development Partners on Strengthening Child Protection Framework

Freetown, April 29, 2026 — The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) has convened a high-level stakeholder meeting with development partners, civil society organizations, and non-governmental organizations to advance a comprehensive framework aimed at preventing and responding to violence against children across Sierra Leone.

The engagement, held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Freetown, brought together key child protection actors, including representatives from UNICEF, National Commission for Children (NCC), World Vision, and Children’s Forum Network (CFN), among others.

The meeting focused on generating insights, contributions, and recommendations toward a holistic and coordinated approach to addressing critical child protection issues such as violence, neglect, exploitation, and inadequate funding for implementation of child-focused programmes.

In his opening remarks, Chief Director Charles Vandi, speaking on behalf of the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, underscored government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of children. He highlighted the importance of aligning national development priorities with global targets, particularly Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with emphasis on gender equality.
“No society can achieve sustainable development while systemic inequalities persist,” Vandi stated, reaffirming the Ministry’s dedication to promoting social inclusion, equality, and justice for women and children.

He also commended UN Women for its continued support in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment in Sierra Leone.
Providing a technical overview of the draft framework, Assistant Director Mrs. Laura Koroma outlined its context, response mechanisms, and strategic approaches to tackling violence against children, including child marriage, sexual abuse, economic exploitation, and female ge***al mutilation.

She referenced Sierra Leone’s participation in the recent ministerial conference in Bogotá, Colombia, where over 150 countries reaffirmed their commitment to child protection. According to Koroma, the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, reiterated Sierra Leone’s resolve to strengthen policies, legal frameworks, and service delivery systems to protect all children, regardless of gender, status, or location.

The draft framework, she explained, is anchored on key principles such as the harmonization and enforcement of child protection laws, promotion of positive social norms and parenting practices, and the provision of accessible and responsive services for survivors.

During the plenary session, participants provided critical feedback aimed at strengthening the document. Representatives from the Children’s Forum Network emphasized the need for greater inclusion of children’s voices in the drafting process, highlighting the importance of participatory approaches in addressing issues affecting young people.

Stakeholders agreed that the document remains a working draft and will be further refined by a technical working group ahead of its validation.

In his closing remarks, Acting Director of Children’s Affairs, Daniel Albert Gbow, expressed appreciation to all participants for their continued commitment to child protection efforts. He encouraged stakeholders to maintain momentum and actively participate in subsequent engagements scheduled for May.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to fostering strong partnerships and coordinated actions to ensure a safer and more supportive environment for children nationwide.

Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs-SL SEND - SIERRA LEONE UNDP in Sierra Leone European Union in Sierra Leone Defence for Children Sierra Leone Caritas Freetown

Save the Children Sierra Leone UNICEF Sierra Leone Ministry of Social Welfare Caritas Freetown SEND - SIERRA LEONE
22/04/2026

Save the Children Sierra Leone UNICEF Sierra Leone Ministry of Social Welfare Caritas Freetown SEND - SIERRA LEONE

MINISTRY OF GENDER AND CHILDREN’S AFFAIRS, SAVE THE CHILDREN LAUNCH CHILD-FRIENDLY VERSION OF PROHIBITION OF CHILD MARRI...
22/04/2026

MINISTRY OF GENDER AND CHILDREN’S AFFAIRS, SAVE THE CHILDREN LAUNCH CHILD-FRIENDLY VERSION OF PROHIBITION OF CHILD MARRIAGE ACT

Freetown, 20th April 2026 – The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA), in collaboration with Save the Children and key child protection partners, has officially launched the Child-Friendly Version of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act at Brookfields Hotel in New England Ville, Freetown.

The launch brought together a wide range of stakeholders including Save the Children, Plan International, World Vision, UNICEF, paramount chiefs, representatives of the Human Rights Commission, and various child protection agencies.
Chairing the ceremony, Mrs. Boi Jenneh Jalloh, Chairperson of the Child Rights Coalition, welcomed guests and outlined the significance of the event, highlighting its importance in strengthening child protection awareness across communities.

Delivering remarks, the Chief Director of MoGCA, Mr. Charles Vandi, explained that the child-friendly version is a simplified adaptation of the Act designed to help children, particularly pupils and adolescents, understand its provisions. He emphasized that the document clarifies key aspects of the law, including penalties and responsibilities, with the aim of strengthening prevention and awareness of child marriage.

Representing the Human Rights Commission, Ms. Sawaneh noted that child marriage continues to contribute to social insecurity and development challenges in Sierra Leone. She stressed the need for intensified community sensitization involving traditional leaders, parents, and local authorities, while also underscoring the importance of responsible parenting in preventing child abuse and early marriage.

Save the Children’s Advocacy, Campaigns, Communications and Media Director, Mrs. Esther Elliott Nyuma, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to child protection and development. Speaking on behalf of the Country Director, she stated that the initiative is designed to help children understand their rights and empower them to speak out and seek support when needed. She described child marriage as a persistent challenge requiring sustained collective action.

A powerful testimony was shared by Ms. Kadijatu Lamarana Shunem Barrie, a Gender Studies graduate from Fourah Bay College, who recounted her lived experience of being pressured into early marriage at the age of 14 in Kambia District. She explained how she resisted societal pressure, pursued education, and ultimately overcame the challenges associated with early marriage, becoming an advocate for girls’ education.

Further contributions were made by Mrs. Betty Johnson of the Family Support Unit (FSU), who highlighted the health, educational, and social consequences of child marriage, including cases of obstetric fistula. She called for stronger law enforcement, increased community advocacy, and greater involvement of teachers, police, and traditional leaders in addressing the practice.

The highlight of the event was a technical presentation by Deputy Director Aminata Kargbo and Victoria Squire, who outlined the key provisions and pillars of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act. They emphasized the importance of simplifying the law for children’s understanding and empowerment before formally presenting the child-friendly version to the Deputy Minister.

Delivering the keynote address, the Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs Buakai Hindowa Bindi commended development partners, particularly Save the Children, for their continuous support. He also praised President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for prioritizing the protection of women and children through national policies and social protection initiatives.

He reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding children’s rights, improving access to education, and strengthening community-level interventions. “Girls should be allowed to remain children, not forced into motherhood,” he emphasized, calling for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to eliminate child marriage nationwide.

The ceremony concluded with the official launch of the Child-Friendly Version of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, accompanied by a collective call to intensify efforts toward ending child marriage and ensuring the protection and empowerment of children across Sierra Leone.

Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs-SL Save the Children Sierra Leone UNICEF Sierra Leone European Union in Sierra Leone SEND - SIERRA LEONE Caritas Freetown Ministry of Social Welfare Defence for Children Sierra Leone UNDP in Sierra Leone Purposeful

BEB Concludes Three-Day Trauma-Informed Care Training for ICC OperatorsFREETOWN, April 15, 2026 Both Ends Believing (BEB...
16/04/2026

BEB Concludes Three-Day Trauma-Informed Care Training for ICC Operators

FREETOWN, April 15, 2026 Both Ends Believing (BEB) has successfully concluded a three-day training program on Trauma-Informed Care for Interim Care Centre (ICC) operators, marking a significant step toward strengthening child protection systems in Sierra Leone.

The training, held from April 13 to 15 at Jesus Triumphant Ministries International in Allen Town, Koroma Drive, brought together ICC operators from Rainy Season, Initiative for Women and Girls, Shiloh Home, and Feeding Centre. Representatives from the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA), as well as members of the host church, also participated.

Speaking at the opening session, BEB Country Manager, Abraham Davies, described the training as a strategic initiative aimed at improving support systems for children experiencing psychological distress in care facilities. He encouraged participants to engage actively, noting that certificates would be awarded upon completion.

Lead facilitator, Ms. Ene Maria Oklo, introduced participants to the core principles of Trauma-Informed Care, emphasizing its importance in safeguarding vulnerable children. She outlined the “Four Rs” of trauma-informed practice: recognizing trauma and its impact, identifying its signs and symptoms, responding appropriately, and resisting re-traumatization.

Ms. Oklo further highlighted six key principles underpinning the approach: safety; trustworthiness and transparency; peer support; collaboration and mutuality; empowerment, voice, and choice; and cultural, historical, and gender sensitivity. She noted that these principles are critical to addressing trauma-related challenges and enhancing care systems for children in safe homes.

Also contributing to the sessions, Mr. Kenneth Umaru Adup provided insights into various forms of trauma, including acute, chronic, and complex developmental trauma affecting children and women. He explained how trauma influences behavior and brain development, using visual materials to deepen participants’ understanding.

In his remarks, Assistant Director for the Western Rural Area at the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Foday Sesay, commended BEB for convening child protection stakeholders and caregivers. He underscored the relevance of trauma-informed care tools in strengthening the capacity of ICC operators and enhancing their commitment to child protection nationwide.

Mr. Sesay described the initiative as a “connect to correct” approach, stressing that collaboration among child protection agencies and ICCs is key to improving learning, safety, and care for vulnerable children.

The training featured practical sessions on psychosocial support, including strategies for managing children’s emotional responses, understanding behavioral patterns, and applying effective caregiving techniques. Participants were also trained in active listening, behavior tracking, and promoting emotional regulation.

At the end of the program, participants demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of trauma-informed practices and their application in caregiving environments. Certificates were presented to participants, MoGCA representatives, and church members who contributed to the training.

The initiative represents a major milestone in advancing child protection efforts and equipping ICC operators with essential skills to support trauma-affected children and women across Sierra Leone.

Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs-SL SEND - SIERRA LEONE Caritas Freetown Ministry of Social Welfare UNICEF Sierra Leone Save the Children Sierra Leone European Union in Sierra Leone UNDP in Sierra Leone Defence for Children Sierra Leone

Gender minister Calls for Stronger ECOWAS Action on Child ProtectionFreetown, April 8 2026, Sierra Leone’s Minister of G...
09/04/2026

Gender minister Calls for Stronger ECOWAS Action on Child Protection

Freetown, April 8 2026, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Hon. Dr. Isata Mahoi, has issued a strong call for coordinated regional action to safeguard children across West Africa, emphasizing that child protection remains both a moral duty and a legal obligation.

Speaking at the 6th Legislature of the during a Delocalized Joint Committee Meeting, Dr. Mahoi highlighted the urgent need for unified strategies to address growing child protection concerns within the region.

The meeting brought together committees on Social Affairs, Gender and Women Empowerment; Legal Affairs and Human Rights; Trade, Customs and Free Movement; and Political Affairs, Peace, Security and APRM.

Dr. Mahoi noted that nearly 45 percent of Sierra Leone’s population is under the age of 18, making child protection not only a national priority but a critical pillar for sustainable development.

She outlined ongoing government efforts aimed at preventing abuse through awareness creation, behavioural change initiatives, and strengthened enforcement of child protection laws.

She further pointed to recent legislative reforms, including the Employment Act (2023), the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (2024), and the Child Rights Act (2025), as significant milestones in reinforcing the country’s legal framework for safeguarding children.

In a move to modernize child protection systems, the Government of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with , is developing a National Child Protection Dashboard. The initiative is expected to enhance case tracking, improve response mechanisms, and ensure greater accountability in handling child welfare issues.

Addressing the broader regional context, Dr. Mahoi stressed that challenges such as child trafficking, forced labour, and abuse require a harmonized ECOWAS response.

She called for stronger parliamentary oversight, aligned legal frameworks, and enhanced cross-border cooperation among member states.

“Safeguarding children is not an act of charity; it is justice. It is both a moral imperative and a legal obligation,” she stated.

The Minister also underscored the importance of community engagement and youth participation in shaping inclusive and responsive policies. She urged stakeholders across the region to work collectively toward building a safer environment where every child is protected and empowered to thrive.

Her remarks come at a time when regional leaders are increasingly prioritizing social protection systems as a foundation for long-term peace, security, and development across West Africa.

Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs-SL Save the Children Sierra Leone UNICEF Sierra Leone UNDP in Sierra Leone European Union in Sierra Leone Defence for Children Sierra Leone National Commission for Social Action SEND - SIERRA LEONE Caritas Freetown

Save the Children Concludes Five-Day Training on Community Disaster PreparednessFreetown, Sierra Leone, Save the Childre...
30/03/2026

Save the Children Concludes Five-Day Training on Community Disaster Preparedness

Freetown, Sierra Leone, Save the Children in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and the Sierra Leone Meteorological Agency (SLMet), has successfully concluded a five-day training on community preparedness for women and girls involved in early warning and alert groups.

The training, held from 23rd to 27th March 2026 at the Country Lodge Hotel, Hill Station, brought together key stakeholders, government officials, and child representatives to strengthen knowledge and capacity on disaster preparedness and early warning systems.
Participants included officials such as Victoria Squire of Save the Children; Ms. Claudia Campbell, Social Accountability and Safeguarding Manager; Ms. Randy Anita Fornah, Climate Change Officer at SLMet; and Mr. Gerald King, Deputy Director of NDMA. Children from the Child-Focused Network (CFN) were also actively engaged, contributing to discussions and learning activities.

Delivering the opening remarks, Victoria Squire emphasized the significance of early warning systems in mitigating disaster risks, particularly for women and children who are often the most vulnerable during emergencies.

She acknowledged the continuous support of development partners in advancing child-focused protection initiatives.

In her presentation, Ms. Randy Anita Fornah highlighted the importance of gender-responsive and inclusive early warning systems. She explained how different groups—men, women, and the elderly—respond to disasters, stressing the need for tailored communication and preparedness strategies.

She also addressed key risks facing Freetown, including flooding, mudslides, storms, and rising sea levels, while encouraging participants to identify barriers to effective disaster alerts and improve communication channels.

Ms. Claudia Campbell outlined Save the Children’s safeguarding policies, focusing on protecting children from abuse, disaster-related risks, and other social challenges. She reiterated the organization’s reporting mechanism, including the use of the toll-free 922 hotline for child protection concerns.

Mr. Gerald King provided an overview of disaster management efforts in Sierra Leone, highlighting NDMA’s strategic role in coordinating national responses and implementing preventive measures in high-risk areas.

Throughout the training, participants explored topics such as hazard identification, climate change trends, and vulnerability assessment. Sessions also focused on strengthening emergency preparedness systems and understanding how changing climate patterns are influencing rainfall, storms, and disaster frequency in Sierra Leone.

The final day emphasized practical approaches, including the use of maps, seasonal forecasts, and climate data to enhance disaster response and prevention strategies.

The training concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to applying the knowledge gained within their communities. Members of the Child-Forum Network pledged to disseminate information on disaster preparedness and early warning systems to promote safer and more resilient communities.

The initiative underscores the ongoing collaboration between Save the Children, NDMA, and SLMet in safeguarding vulnerable populations and strengthening community resilience against disasters.

Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs-SL Caritas Freetown Save the Children Sierra Leone European Union in Sierra Leone National Commission for Children Sierra Leone Purposeful Defence for Children Sierra Leone UNICEF Sierra Leone

WAGE CONSORTIUM HOLDS STRATEGIC STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING IN FREETOWNFreetown, March 25, 2026 — The Wage Consortium, in...
26/03/2026

WAGE CONSORTIUM HOLDS STRATEGIC STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING IN FREETOWN

Freetown, March 25, 2026 —

The Wage Consortium, in collaboration with Defence for Children Sierra Leone, and Girls and Young Women, has convened a high-level Strategic Steering Committee meeting aimed at strengthening coordination and advancing interventions for women and girls across Sierra Leone.

The meeting, held at the Vanilla Complex in Aberdeen, brought together key stakeholders to adopt the Terms of Reference (ToR) and validate processes guiding the implementation, monitoring, and progress of consortium programs.

Discussions during the session focused on pressing challenges affecting women and girls, particularly in Bombali and Karene districts. Key issues highlighted included child marriage, sexual abuse, exploitation, and broader gender-related inequalities.

Participants underscored the need for sustained advocacy and strategic interventions to amplify the voices and rights of women and girls.

Chairing the meeting, Ms. Janet Ge**er, a former staff member of the International Rescue Committee, provided an overview of the committee’s mandate and emphasized the importance of its strategic role in addressing existing gaps.
She outlined the need for coordinated efforts and effective oversight to ensure impactful program delivery.

Wage Consortium Manager,
Ms. Hawanatu Mansaray, presented detailed insights into the operational framework of the committee. She highlighted key responsibilities of members, including regular reporting to their respective organizations, timely sharing of meeting agendas, and documentation of decisions.

She also explained provisions within Chapter Seven of the committee’s framework, which prioritizes institutional representation over individual membership to ensure continuity and effective collaboration.

Ms. Mansaray further noted that mechanisms for alternative representation were agreed upon to maintain consistency in participation when designated members are unavailable.

Representing Defence for Children Sierra Leone, Mr. Abdul Kemokai outlined the role of the Icelandic Embassy as a key partner supporting initiatives aimed at ending child marriage and protecting the rights of the girl child. She emphasized the committee’s core responsibilities, including providing strategic direction, monitoring program implementation, and approving annual plans and reports.

She clarified that the committee’s role is to offer high-level guidance rather than engage in day-to-day project management.

Abdul Kemokai also stressed the importance of effective communication, noting that meetings will be held biannually, with provisions for ad hoc sessions during emergencies. Rotational leadership in chairing meetings and structured administrative support from the committee secretary were also highlighted as key governance mechanisms.

At the climax of the meeting, members unanimously adopted the Terms of Reference, agreeing that decisions would be reached through consensus, with a structured voting system in place where necessary.

The Steering Committee was affirmed as the highest decision-making body within the consortium.

The meeting concluded with a collective commitment by members to strengthen collaboration, drive impactful programs, and ensure sustained progress in addressing issues affecting women and girls. The session ended with the formal signing of documents by committee members and a group photograph to mark the occasion.

Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs-SL SEND - SIERRA LEONE European Union in Sierra Leone UNDP in Sierra Leone National Commission for Social Action Defence for Children Sierra Leone

MoGCA Leads IWD Celebration in Tonkolili, Calls for Stronger Action on Gender EqualityMagburaka, Tonkolili District – Ma...
18/03/2026

MoGCA Leads IWD Celebration in Tonkolili, Calls for Stronger Action on Gender Equality

Magburaka, Tonkolili District – March 8, 2026

The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) in Tonkolili District joined the rest of the world to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026 under the global theme: “Right. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.”

The celebration brought together government officials, civil society organizations, development partners, and community members in a unified call to accelerate gender equality and strengthen the protection of women and girls across the district.
International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8, serves as a platform for advocacy, awareness raising, and renewed commitment to women’s empowerment. It highlights both the achievements and persistent challenges faced by women and girls in their pursuit of equal rights and opportunities.

Speaking during the event, stakeholders emphasized that while Sierra Leone has made notable progress in strengthening legal and policy frameworks to promote gender equality, significant barriers still exist. Cultural norms, limited access to leadership opportunities, and gender-based violence continue to hinder the full participation of women and girls in national development.

MoGCA, which is mandated to coordinate gender-based violence (GBV) response services and strengthen child protection systems, led a series of activities in Tonkolili District to mark the occasion. These included radio discussions on March 7 and 8, community engagements in Magburaka and Matotoka, and a town hall meeting that attracted over 150 women and 20 men.

The town hall engagement featured statements from key partners and stakeholders, including representatives from civil society, women’s governance groups, disability organizations, and international NGOs. Discussions centered on critical issues such as gender gaps in leadership, harmful traditional practices, and the importance of male involvement in addressing GBV.
Participants also stressed the need to popularize recently enacted gender laws and policies, particularly in mining communities where women often face heightened vulnerabilities.

The event further underscored the importance of women’s contributions to societal growth and development, while calling for increased efforts to promote their inclusion in governance and decision-making processes.

Despite financial and logistical challenges, MoGCA successfully mobilized support from its partners through a series of planning meetings, ensuring a well-coordinated and impactful celebration.

Closing the event, organizers described the commemoration as a significant milestone in advancing the rights and empowerment of women and girls in Tonkolili District. They called for sustained commitment from all stakeholders to address existing challenges and build a more inclusive and equitable society.

Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs-SL Ministry of Social Welfare SEND - SIERRA LEONE European Union in Sierra Leone UNDP in Sierra Leone Purposeful

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