By: Audrey Raymonda John
Don Bosco Fambul Therapy Centre and the Family Support Unit (FSU) held a crucial meeting on Wednesday at the CID Headquarters in Freetown to discuss pressing issues affecting vulnerable children under their care.
The gathering aimed to address concerns over the prolonged stays of children at the Don Bosco shelter, unresolved police cases, and increasing overcrowding at the facility.
Representatives from Don Bosco Fambul highlighted that the shelter currently houses 11 children who have been there for periods ranging from six months to over a year due to pending police cases. The shelter’s capacity, designed to accommodate only 100 beneficiaries annually, is now overwhelmed. The organization expressed difficulties in reuniting many children with their families, citing stalled cases and systemic delays.
Participants also examined the backlog at specific FSU stations, notably Deep-Eye Water and Rokel, which contribute to the shelter’s congestion. A joint monitoring report covering 31 FSU stations revealed widespread delays and gaps in inter-agency coordination, further exacerbating the challenges faced.
In response, Superintendent Mohamed S.Y. Mansaray, Head of the FSU, acknowledged these issues and pledged to conduct unannounced inspections of all stations and posts to ensure accountability. He emphasized the importance of improving case follow-up procedures and fostering stronger collaboration across agencies. Monthly coordination meetings are to be established to facilitate timely case resolution.
Both parties underscored the urgency of improving communication, expediting investigations, and alleviating shelter overcrowding to better protect children and survivors of abuse.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for sustained partnership and proactive measures. Don Bosco Fambul presented a detailed report based on their joint monitoring efforts, highlighting delays in investigations and the extended detention of children. Superintendent Mansaray committed to implementing immediate action plans, including unannounced station visits and enhanced inter-agency cooperation.
Participants agreed to hold regular review meetings, prioritize resolving long-standing cases, and reinforce their shared commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of children across Sierra Leone.
Several representatives from both organizations emphasized that continued collaboration and accountability are vital to strengthening child protection efforts nationwide.