By: Saidu Jalloh
The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) has officially inaugurated the Secretariat for the Network of Women Ministers and Parliamentarians (NeWMaP) at its headquarters. This landmark event was attended by key dignitaries, including Minister Dr. Isata Mahoi, Deputy Minister Hindowa Bindi, Chief Director Joseph Sunday Sinnah, Director of Children’s Affairs Mrs. Joyce Kamara, Permanent Secretary Mrs. Aminata Sannoh, and representatives from NeWMaP, the Campaign for Good Governance (CGG), and Trocaire.
The ceremony, hosted by MoGCA’s Gender Director Goodie Sowonie, underscored the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to advancing women’s participation in politics and fostering collaboration. Madam. Sowonie provided an overview of the Secretariat’s objectives, highlighting its vital role in empowering women in governance.
Permanent Secretary Mrs. Aminata Sannoh delivered a warm welcome address, urging appointees to the new Secretariat to execute their duties with dedication and efficiency. She emphasized the office’s critical role in promoting gender inclusivity and supporting female empowerment.
A representative from NeWMaP highlighted the importance of the Secretariat and unveiled essential resources, such as printers, desks, and cartridges, provided to ensure smooth operations. The representative expressed confidence in the Secretariat’s capacity to strengthen collaboration with parliament.
Mrs. Masella Samba from CGG outlined the collective responsibilities of NeWMaP and CGG in fostering partnerships with parliament. She stressed the Secretariat’s role in empowering women in politics and nurturing their growth within legislative spaces. She further emphasized the need for commitment and collaboration for the Secretariat’s effectiveness.
The Country Director of Trocaire reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to gender equality and its ongoing efforts to tackle poverty and social challenges in Sierra Leone. She commended MoGCA and NeWMaP for their bold steps in advocating for women’s inclusion in leadership and governance.
Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs Dr. Isata Mahoi delivered the keynote address, applauding the establishment of the Secretariat. She emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to ending gender-based violence (GBV) and promoting women’s empowerment nationwide.
“I am thrilled to witness this historic step toward empowering women in politics. Collaboration and teamwork are essential for the Secretariat’s success, and I urge the appointees to embrace these values,” Dr. Mahoi stated.
The event concluded with Dr. Mahoi ceremonially cutting of the ribbon to mark the office’s official opening. The audience erupted in applause, signifying a unified commitment to advancing women’s representation and influence in Sierra Leone’s political landscape.