BY PROBLYN J ALPHA
In a recent ceremony held at the Kono District Council Hall, D.O. Barracks in Koidu City, Chairman of the Council of Paramount Chiefs in Kono District, PC Edward Mbawa, asserted that women represent a significant solution to the leadership challenges plaguing the nation. Speaking at the event where the Female Focused Civil Society Organization on Gender Peace and Security for Women was officially presented to the people of Kono District, PC Mbawa emphasized the effectiveness of women in positions of authority.
Highlighting the role of women in governance, PC Mbawa underscored their consistent performance when entrusted with leadership responsibilities. He expressed his confidence in women’s capabilities, stating, “What men can do, women can also do it better or best.” Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment in fostering peace and security, asserting that their elevated status in society makes it challenging for them to perform below standards.
The Female Focused Civil Society Organization on Gender Peace and Security for Women, a consortium led by reputable institutions such as UN Women, UNDP, and World Vision, was introduced during the ceremony. Edna Koroma, Gender Manager at World Vision, provided insights into the consortium’s objectives, including peace promotion, security enhancement, and women’s empowerment. She highlighted the consortium’s activities, which encompass training sessions, fund sourcing, and leadership development.
Operating across six districts in Sierra Leone, including Bombali, Karene, Kono, Pujehun, and Western Area Rural and Urban, the consortium aims to promote sustainable peace and gender equality. UNDP’s role primarily focuses on policy formulation and strategy development to ensure effective implementation of the consortium’s activities.The formal launch of the consortium in Freetown and subsequent presentations in Kono and other operational districts seek to garner support from stakeholders and like-minded institutions. The goal is to enhance gender equality, peace, and security initiatives, particularly in Kono District and other targeted regions.
PC Mbawa, on behalf of his fellow paramount chiefs, pledged unwavering support for the consortium’s efforts in advancing women’s leadership and ensuring the safety and development of women in Kono District and beyond.
The ceremony marked a significant step towards recognizing the invaluable contributions of women in national development and fostering collaborative efforts to address gender disparities and promote lasting peace and security.
