By: Saidu Jalloh
In a major step to strengthen Sierra Leone’s national response to Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) convened a high-level strategic coordination meeting at its headquarters in Freetown. The gathering aimed to engage development partners and review the progress of the National Committee on GBV (NaCGBV) implementation across the country.
The meeting brought together senior government officials and representatives from partner organizations to share insights, evaluate strategies, and reinforce collaborative frameworks. Key participants included Permanent Secretary Aminata Y. Sannoh, Director of Gender Marian Goodie Sowonie, Assistant Director Harry Mahoi, and MoGCA Consultant Ramatu Kargbo. Representatives from civil society and international organizations were also in attendance.
In her opening remarks, Permanent Secretary Sannoh thanked the participants for their continued commitment and emphasized the importance of collective action in combating GBV.
Director of Gender Marian Goodie Sowonie provided an overview of the National Committee on GBV, describing it as a vital coordination mechanism aimed at supporting survivor reintegration, enhancing stakeholder collaboration, and ensuring the effective implementation of GBV-related initiatives. She outlined key priorities, including harmonizing GBV-related data, developing a national action plan, and fostering strategic partnerships.
“These are the roadmap policies the committee will focus on,” Madam Sowonie stated, highlighting critical areas such as enforcement of legal frameworks, appointment of justice sector focal points, and improved data-sharing systems among partners.
Assistant Director Harry Mahoi underscored the need for stronger institutional collaboration and encouraged new organizations to seek MoGCA’s endorsement to ensure alignment with national standards and strategies.
A powerful moment came during a presentation by MoGCA Consultant Ramatu Kargbo, who reported a disturbing rise in GBV cases in Yenga. Her presentation included troubling accounts of women facing inhumane treatment and children forced into labor, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted support in rural and marginalized communities.
As the meeting progressed, participants discussed the development of Terms of Reference (ToR) for GBV-response institutions, the importance of data confidentiality, and safeguarding sensitive information against misuse.
The session concluded with a collective commitment to draft actionable plans ahead of the next National Committee on GBV meeting. This renewed sense of urgency and unity marks a significant step forward in Sierra Leone’s ongoing fight against gender-based violence.