Sierra Leone marked World Zero Discrimination Day with a gathering of stakeholders from governmental, non-governmental, and international organizations at the Family Kingdom in Freetown. The event, organized by the National AIDS Secretariat (NAS), Rofutha Development Association (RODA), UNAIDS, and other partners, aimed to raise awareness about the persistent challenges of discrimination in the country, particularly concerning HIV/AIDS and other vulnerable populations.
Under the theme “Protect Everyone’s Health, Protect Everyone’s Rights,” participants highlighted the urgent need to repeal repressive laws and address inequalities that impede access to HIV prevention and treatment services. Hon Bernadette Weyah Songa, Chairperson for the Parliamentary Committee on Health, emphasized the parliament’s role in advocating for the rights of the people they serve. She underscored the detrimental effects of discrimination on individual growth and service delivery, calling for concerted efforts to achieve zero discrimination.
Dr. Isaac Ahemesah, the Country Director for UNAIDS in Sierra Leone, reflected on the progress made in combating HIV/AIDS in the region, noting a decline in infections and an increase in antiretroviral therapy coverage. However, he cautioned against the intensifying legal measures in certain countries, which risk exacerbating vulnerabilities among marginalized communities and perpetuating discrimination.
Commissioner Simitie Lavaly from the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone highlighted the importance of protecting everyone’s rights and provided insights into the commission’s operations and efforts to address human rights violations in the country.
Deputy Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay emphasized the significance of the justice system in addressing discrimination and called for sustained efforts beyond the commemorative event.
Throughout the gathering, presentations and testimonies shed light on various forms of discrimination, with victims sharing their experiences, emphasizing the need for collective action to combat discrimination in all spheres of life.
As Sierra Leone commemorates World Zero Discrimination Day, stakeholders urge for continuous dialogue and collaborative efforts to safeguard human rights for all individuals, irrespective of background or identity.
