By: Mohamed Sahr
In a ground-breaking move to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Secure for Peace (SHE4PEACE) hosted a seminar under the theme: “Cantering Men’s Voices in the Fight Against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in Sierra Leone” on Saturday, 21st June 2025.
The event, held at Creative Hub Africa, marked a pivotal moment in breaking the silence around men’s mental health and promoting inclusive awareness on GBV issues.
Chief Executive Officer of SHE4PEACE, Madam Mariama Sahid, emphasized the importance of collaboration between men and women in tackling sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). “If we all partner and collaborate to combat SGBV in our society, I believe we will achieve our goal not just for women, but for men as well,” Madam Sahid stated.
She further highlighted that empowering women also requires active support and involvement from men. “It is a shared responsibility. Men and women must work hand in hand to put an end to SGBV in our communities,” she added.
Madam Sahid also encouraged men to speak up about their mental well-being and report any cases of abuse they may experience. “Men’s voices matter. Their pain is valid, and they deserve a safe space to heal and be heard,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, Ibrahim Sannoh, Minister of Youth Affairs, pledged his ministry’s support to align with SHE4PEACE in promoting youth-centered initiatives across the country. He expressed his commitment to strengthening collaborative efforts aimed at tackling SGBV and supporting mental health for all.
This seminar serves as a reminder that combating SGBV requires a united front one where both male and female voices are equally valued in the journey toward peace and healing.