Sightsavers Sierra Leone Country Programme has donated three brand new motorbikes and computers to three of its key partners under the Citizens Political Participation Project, funded by Irish Aid under the A Better World Programme. These partners—the National Council for Civic Education and Democracy (NaCCED), the Ministry of Youth Affairs, and the Commission for Persons with Disability—each received one motorbike and one computer.
The five-year Citizens Political Participation Project aims to create an environment where young men and women with disabilities can fully participate in society. This will be achieved by fostering inclusive political dialogue and promoting democratic values that include all citizens. The project seeks to increase civic education and awareness of rights among youth with disabilities, address barriers to civic participation, and provide equal opportunities in Sierra Leone. Additionally, it will empower youth with disabilities to engage in local development projects, potentially leading to electoral success or advisory roles in decision-making institutions.
Tiangay Gondoe, the Country Lead for Sightsavers Sierra Leone, explained that these donations are intended to enable the partners to execute their activities effectively. The motorbikes will facilitate mobility during operations, while the computers will assist in reporting. “If we want our partners to send reports and other information on time, we need to support them with the necessary tools to enable them to be effective,” she said. Gondoe also emphasized that Sightsavers conducts yearly asset verification exercises to ensure donated items remain in good working order. She concluded by thanking the partners for their ongoing support and contributions to Sights savers’ projects.
Kalilu Ibrahim Totangi, Chairman for NaCCED, expressed gratitude while receiving the items, noting the long-standing partnership and the significant impact of Sightsavers’ interventions. He highlighted that the project is appreciated in communities for its inclusive approach, particularly towards youth with disabilities. Totangi added that the new motorbikes would enhance their outreach capabilities and assured that the items would be used for their intended purposes.
The Deputy Minister of Youth and the Executive Secretary for the National Commission for Persons with Disability also expressed they’re thanks to Sightsavers and pledged to use the items judiciously. The handing over ceremony concluded with the signing of documents to ensure proper ownership of the donated items.