Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and Dr. Maxime Houinato, Regional Director of UN Women for West and Central Africa committed to advance gender equality during a courtesy visit at the Office of the Vice President on 17th February 2026.
The meeting provided an opportunity for the two leaders to reconnect as former colleagues who served together in Mali under the United Nations. They reflected on their shared experiences while exchanging views on the progress made and the evolving challenges facing the West and Central African region.
During the discussions, Dr. Houinato commended Sierra Leone for its progress in advancing women’s empowerment and gender equality. He described the country as a model in promoting inclusive governance and creating an enabling environment for women’s participation in social, economic, and political spheres.
Vice President Juldeh Jalloh welcomed the recognition and reaffirmed the Government’s continued commitment to strengthening policies and implementing practical initiatives aimed at uplifting women and girls nationwide.
The Vice President also briefed Dr. Houinato on the upcoming National Women’s Dialogue, jointly organized by his Office and the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs. The dialogue series is expected to assess the implementation of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act and collaboratively identify concrete, actionable steps to develop a clear roadmap. The initiative seeks to ensure that the lived experiences of women and girls reflect the aspirations of this landmark legislation.
Beyond policy discussions, the meeting underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between Sierra Leone and UN Women in driving meaningful and measurable change. Vice President Juldeh Jalloh acknowledged the dedication of women leaders and civil society partners who continue to champion gender equality across communities.
Dr. Houinato, in turn, reaffirmed UN Women’s unwavering support for Sierra Leone’s gender reform agenda.
The courtesy visit concluded on a forward-looking note, marked by renewed commitment, a shared vision, and a strengthened partnership aimed at advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment in Sierra Leone and across the West and Central African region.