By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
In a powerful statement delivered at a conference today, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh emphasized the Sierra Leonean government’s commitment to combating gender-based violence (GBV) and promoting gender equality as part of the ongoing 16 Days of Activism campaign.
During his address, Dr. Jalloh outlined the significant strides made by the government in protecting women’s rights and empowering them through various initiatives over the years.
However, he warned of the challenges that could undermine these achievements, urging all stakeholders to stay vigilant in their efforts.
“While we have made progress, we must navigate the headwinds that threaten to erode our gains,” Dr. Jalloh stated. He called on activists, government entities, and non-governmental organizations to foster deeper community involvement in the fight against GBV.
He highlighted the importance of grassroots initiatives, noting that community-led actions have proven effective in creating sustainable solutions to prevent violence and support victims.
The Vice President expressed his gratitude to the organizations and activists who have partnered with the government to empower women and girls. “Their leadership is crucial in giving agency to our communities and ensuring that our women and girls can thrive,” he said.
The conference, which is part of a global campaign to raise awareness about GBV, serves as a platform for discussing strategies and sharing success stories.
As Sierra Leone continues to face challenges related to gender-based violence, the Vice President’s call for collective action reinforces the need for unity and commitment in addressing this pressing issue, Community engagement, he argued, is essential for lasting change and protection for vulnerable populations.