By: Precious Miracle Kargbo Snr.
The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs has strengthened its partnerships with Irish Members of Parliament, female parliamentarians, the National Emergency Women’s Medical Assistance Programme (NEWMaP), and other development partners as part of ongoing efforts to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment across Sierra Leone.
The engagements brought together international parliamentary allies and national stakeholders committed to promoting the welfare and advancement of women and girls. Discussions focused on enhancing collaboration to support reforms, expand opportunities, and improve access to essential services for women and girls throughout the country.
Speaking during the engagements, the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Hon. Isata Mahoi, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and strengthening partnerships that contribute to national development.
“We reaffirm our commitment to reforms, collaboration, and expanding opportunities for women and girls nationwide,” she stated.
Gender equality remains a key priority within Sierra Leone’s national development agenda. Over the years, government policies and programmes have focused on legal reforms, access to education, healthcare services, and increased economic participation for women. The Constitution guarantees fundamental rights for all citizens, while national strategies continue to address barriers that limit the full participation of women in society.
The National Emergency Women’s Medical Assistance Programme (NEWMaP) plays an important role in supporting women and girls by providing emergency medical assistance, particularly in critical health situations. The programme operates within the broader healthcare system to help address urgent medical needs and improve health outcomes for vulnerable women and girls.
The engagement with Irish Members of Parliament and female parliamentarians reflects the growing collaboration between Sierra Leone and international partners in promoting inclusive governance and gender-responsive leadership. Such exchanges provide opportunities for sharing experiences, best practices, and legislative approaches that support women’s representation and participation in decision-making processes.
Development partners continue to work closely with government institutions to address key social and development priorities. Their support includes technical assistance, capacity building, and the alignment of resources with national policies aimed at promoting gender equality and social inclusion.
As Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Hon. Isata Mahoi continues to lead efforts aimed at advancing policies and programmes that improve the lives of women and children. The ministry’s mandate includes promoting gender-responsive reforms, strengthening partnerships, and fostering collaboration across sectors to achieve national development goals.
The strengthened partnerships are expected to build on existing initiatives and accelerate efforts to improve opportunities, protection, and outcomes for women and girls through coordinated action, shared expertise, and sustained commitment from all stakeholders.