The Government of Sierra Leone has taken a significant step toward strengthening its response to gender-based violence (GBV) with the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA), the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in Freetown, 10th February, 2026.
The signing ceremony, held at the MoGCA Conference Room on Waterloo Street, formalized a strategic partnership aimed at reinforcing a coordinated, survivor-centered, and accountable framework for addressing GBV cases reported through Grievance Redress Mechanisms (GRMs), particularly within social protection programs.
Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, described the agreement as a clear demonstration of Sierra Leone’s commitment to protecting survivors. “The signing of this MoU shows Sierra Leone’s firm commitment to protecting survivors of gender-based violence. By bringing MoGCA, NaCSA, and ACC together, we are building grievance systems that are transparent, accountable, and survivor-centered. This partnership strengthens dignity, rights, and justice, ensuring no survivor is left unheard as we work toward a safer, more equitable Sierra Leone,” she stated.
NaCSA Commissioner, Ambassador Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina, emphasized that the agreement enhances both survivor economic empowerment and public confidence in grievance processes. “This partnership restores dignity by empowering survivors economically and reinforcing trust in grievance systems. It reflects our commitment to transparency, fairness, and sustainable empowerment, ensuring communities feel secure and supported,” he said.
Deputy Commissioner of the ACC, Mr. Augustine Foday Ngobie, reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to accountability and the protection of public resources.
“The ACC remains resolute in protecting public resources and ensuring accountability. This agreement reinforces survivor support and strengthens grievance systems, building trust and transparency across our institutions,” he noted.
The UNICEF Country Representative commended the Government of Sierra Leone for demonstrating strong leadership in advancing a coordinated, survivor-centered response. The Representative described the MoU as a critical step toward protecting women and children from violence, exploitation, and abuse, particularly those benefiting from social protection programs.
Under the agreement, the three institutions will establish internal referral pathways, conduct regular staff training, hold quarterly joint review meetings, coordinate information sharing, and implement survivor feedback mechanisms. MoGCA will lead national coordination efforts, while NaCSA and the ACC will provide programmatic and accountability support. The MoU also includes provisions for financial management, transparency, and annual reviews to ensure sustainability and continuous improvement.
The signing of this MoU marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s fight against gender-based violence. By aligning MoGCA, NaCSA, and the ACC under a unified framework, the Government has reaffirmed its commitment to survivor protection, ethical governance, and coordinated service delivery.
As highlighted by Commissioner Ndomahina, Deputy Commissioner Ngobie, and the UNICEF Country Representative, the partnership reflects a shared responsibility to uphold dignity, rights, and well-being ensuring that no survivor is left behind.
