By: Mohamed Sahr mohamedsahrpro@gmail.com
In a bid of showcasing the spirit of compassion to women who had undergone series of violence, Office of the First Lady with support from the Maada and Fatima Bio Foundation supported survivors of sexual-based violence during the commemoration of the International Day.
The event unfolded during the Prevention and Healing from Sexual Exploitation, Violence, and Abuse day on Saturday 18th November 2023 in Freetown.
The occasion marks a significant testimony in the ongoing efforts to address and combat such atrocities.
Dr. Fatima Bio, First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone said the celebration of such remarkable day previews the potential roles in terms of preventing and healing a number of women being served as victims of sexual exploitation; adding it translates her works in providing an impactful actions. Madam Fatima Bio furthered that the university scholarships and start-up capital provided to the survivors of Sexual Based Violence would empower their journeys towards recovery and independence.
“The 100 thousand Leones (100 million old leones) dedicated to six organizations serve as a caring for rape victims and marginalized children in order to demonstrating a shared vision for the well-being of the most vulnerable members of society, ” Dr. Fatima Bio mentioned.
She added that the university scholarships symbolize an investment in education, recognizing its transformative power in rebuilding lives shattered by traumatic experiences.
Madam First Lady said providing survivors with the opportunity to pursue higher education, aims to empower them with the tools and knowledge needed to overcome adversity and contribute meaningfully to society.
She demonstrated her commitment in handing over start-up capital for survivors who want to become entrepreneurs especially to fostering economic independence among survivors. “Financial empowerment plays a crucial role in rebuilding lives, as it provides survivors with the means to create sustainable livelihoods and regain control over their destinies,” First Lady stated.
She affirmed that the start-ups do not only serve as a financial boost, but also send a powerful message of support and belief in the survivors’ ability to rebuild their lives.
Her Excellency First Lady’s initiative goes beyond mere rhetoric, showcasing a genuine dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of survivors with shared vision to addressing both educational and economic aspects.
She continued that such comprehensive approach acknowledges the multifaceted challenges faced by survivors of sexual-based violence; revealing that the scholarships and start-up capital reflect a broader commitment to breaking the cycle of abuse and fostering a society that champions the rights and well-being of its members.
It is truism to note that Dr. Fatima Bio’s leadership in such outstanding initiative sets a commendable example for others to emulate; encouraging collective action in the fight against sexual exploitation, violence, and abuse.
The handing over of 100 Thousand Leones to each of the six organizations is a strategic investment in the critical work they undertake as these organizations play a pivotal role in providing a “safe heaven” for sexually abused victims and marginalized children by not only providing them with refugee corridors but also the necessary support and resources to rebuild their lives.
In the aspect of directing financial assistance to these organizations, the Maada and Fatima Bio Foundation recognizes the vital role manifested in the healing process whether through counseling, medical support or educational programs, the foundation contributes significantly to empowering survivors and breaking the cycle of abuse.
As the international community grapples with the complex issue of sexual-based violence, the First Lady’s initiative serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that concrete actions are essential for meaningful change. That is to say, by investing in education and economic empowerment, the Bio’s Foundation takes a step closer to creating a future where survivors can not only heal but also thrive, breaking the chains of violence and building a better tomorrow.
