By: Mamajah Jalloh
The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, has convened a National Preparatory Consultation to strengthen national action against violence against children.
The consultation, held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, is part of preparations for the Second Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children, scheduled to take place in the Philippines.
The meeting provides a platform for stakeholders to assess progress made since the First Global Ministerial Conference, held in Bogotá, Colombia, in 2024, while reviewing Sierra Leone’s national commitments and priorities ahead of the second conference.
Speaking at the consultation, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr Isata Mahoi, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to protecting every child from violence, abuse, exploitation and neglect.
She highlighted progress in strengthening the country’s legal and policy framework, child protection systems, prevention and response mechanisms, positive parenting initiatives, referral pathways and coordination among key stakeholders.
However, Dr. Mahoi acknowledged that significant challenges remain, including limited resources, harmful social norms, gaps in access to child protection and justice services, and the need for stronger data and evidence-based programmes.
She stressed that ending violence against children requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, backed by stronger implementation, accountability, financing and evidence, as well as the meaningful participation of children and young people in decisions affecting their lives.
Representatives from UNICEF, WHO, government ministries, departments and agencies, development partners and other stakeholders reaffirmed their support for Sierra Leone’s efforts to strengthen mechanisms for preventing and responding to violence against children.
They also called for greater collective action at national, community and global levels to protect children from all forms of violence.
As Sierra Leone prepares for the Second Global Ministerial Conference, the consultation seeks to move the country from commitments to implementation, measurable results and lasting change.
Stakeholders reaffirmed their shared vision of a Sierra Leone where every child is protected from violence and can grow, learn and thrive in a safe, nurturing and protective environment.