In a landmark address to government officials, civil society leaders, and international partners, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh emphasized the urgency of strengthening community-driven efforts to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) in Sierra Leone.
The Vice President outlined achievements made in recent years while identifying the persistent challenges that continue to impede progress.
Dr. Jalloh commended the nation’s strides in healthcare and gender equality since 2018, highlighting a significant drop in maternal mortality rates—from 1007 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2018 to 448 in 2022.
He also acknowledged key legislative milestones, including the Sexual Offenses Act and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, as critical steps forward.
However, he stressed that GBV remains a pervasive issue, especially in rural areas, and called for a shift towards localized, community-owned solutions.
“Despite the progress, gender-based violence persists at troubling levels. Change happens where people live, work, and raise families—within communities. We need grassroots ownership of this fight,” Dr. Jalloh said.
The Vice President urged stronger partnerships between government and non-governmental organizations to empower local communities with resources and tools to prevent GBV and support survivors.
“When communities take the lead, backed by adequate support, we can achieve real and lasting change,” he asserted.
Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, echoed the Vice President’s call for a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach. She cited progress made with the Domestic Violence Act and Gender Equality Act, but stressed the importance of effective implementation.
Dr. Mahoi highlighted the establishment of One-Stop Centers and the 116 Helpline as critical in providing immediate support to survivors.
“These initiatives are essential in restoring the dignity and agency of survivors,” she noted.
Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Mohamed Hadji Kella, called attention to entrenched cultural norms and practices that perpetuate GBV. He stressed the need to break the silence and dismantle societal structures that enable abuse.
“Challenging cultural complicity and empowering survivors to speak out are essential steps in eradicating GBV,” Kella said.
Joseph Ayamga, Country Director of SEND Sierra Leone, focused on eliminating harmful traditions such as female genital mutilation and child marriage. He called for increased public education and awareness campaigns to shift societal attitudes.
“This isn’t about choosing between tradition and progress—it’s about safeguarding the dignity and future of our women and children,” Ayamga stated.
Dr. Jalloh closed the event with a call for collective action, urging all sectors of society—government, civil society, and the media—to unite in the fight against GBV.
“The eradication of gender-based violence demands collective responsibility. Together, we can build a safer and more equitable Sierra Leone,” he declared.
The conference underscored Sierra Leone’s commitment to ending GBV through a unified approach, bringing together diverse stakeholders to forge a path toward a society free from violence and discrimination.
