By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
Combating Gender-Based Violence, the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs has on Friday 29th November 2024 hosted a pivotal town hall meeting in Bo City, amid global activism activism.
The event hosted was part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign and was organized in partnership with UN Women and the Government of Iceland. With representatives from government, civil society, and local communities, the gathering showcased Sierra Leone’s commitment to ending violence against women and girls.
Kenneth Amadu of the Child Rights Coalition chaired the meeting, which featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs Hindowa Bindi, Gender Adviser to the President I.J. Kabba, Bo District Deputy Mayor Mrs. Campbell, and Director of Gender Ms. Goodie Sowonie.
In his opening address, Mr. Amadu set the tone, reminding attendees of their collective responsibility to tackle GBV. “The fight against violence is not for one person or group—it is for us all,” he declared, urging stakeholders to act as ambassadors of change in their communities.
Director of Gender Ms. Sowonie unveiled the ministry’s ‘Real Man Campaign’, a bold initiative to engage men and boys as allies in addressing GBV. Reflecting on recent high-profile cases of violence, she stressed the importance of vigilance and cross-sector collaboration. “Men and boys are critical to this fight. Together, we can dismantle harmful practices and protect the most vulnerable,” she said.
Bo District Deputy Mayor Mrs. Campbell echoed these sentiments, condemning child marriage, child labour, and all forms of abuse. She underscored the district’s commitment to empowering women and children through education and leadership opportunities. “Equality starts with access—access to education, leadership, and a safe environment free from violence,” she stated passionately.
Presenting statistical analysis, Hannah Robinson, Assistant Director of Gender, presented a sobering reality: “60% of Sierra Leonean women and girls aged 15-45 have faced some form of violence,” she revealed and went on detailing some existing measures to address these alarming numbers, including:
One-stop centres providing integrated services for survivors.
Toll-free hotlines (116) to report abuse.
The 2021 Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Strategy and the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act (GEWE).
“These numbers are not just statistics; they represent real lives, real pain, and a call for urgent action,” Ms. Robinson said.
UN Women representative Uslu Maylla applauded Sierra Leone’s progress, emphasizing the role of collective action. “Real change requires everyone’s commitment—from policymakers to community leaders and every citizen,” she said, pledging UN Women’s continued support for campaigns like the Real Man Campaign.
In his keynote address, Deputy Minister Hindowa Bindi reaffirmed the government’s resolve to prioritize gender equality under President Julius Maada Bio’s administration. “Our leadership is unwavering in the fight for gender justice. Together, we can eradicate GBV and achieve Sustainable Development Goal 5,” he declared.
The event concluded with a powerful call to action, urging communities to champion education, awareness, and collaboration in addressing GBV. Attendees left inspired to transform their shared vision into tangible outcomes for a safer and more equal Sierra Leone.
This town hall is a testament to Sierra Leone’s growing commitment to safeguarding its citizens and promoting gender equality. As the 16 Days of Activism campaign continues, Bo City’s actions serve as a powerful reminder that meaningful change begins with local leadership and grassroots engagement.