VP Juldeh Jalloh Joins Gender Ministry And Partners For IWD Celebrations

The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, in collaboration with its development partners, gathered at the Miatta Conference Hall today to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) under the theme “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” The event was graced by prominent stakeholders, key government officials, and representatives from international organisations.

The Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, Gender Adviser to the Office of the President Madam I.J. Kabba, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs Dr. Isata Mahoi, UN Resident Coordinator Mrs. Sarahine Wakana, Irish Ambassador Aidan Fitzpatrick, the Director of Programmes and Operations Dr. Modupe Taiwo, and Vice President of the Women’s Forum Network Cecelia Bangura, were among those in attendance.

The chairperson, Madam I.J. Kabba, began the proceedings by welcoming distinguished guests and highlighting the significant strides, challenges, and success stories Sierra Leone has made regarding women’s rights. She emphasised that “Every woman and girl has the right to live,” while also addressing the issues of gender-based violence that affect women both nationally and regionally. She reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to tackling these challenges.

Hon. Buakai Hindowa Bindi, Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, also addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude to the various women’s advocacy organisations for their continuous efforts to empower women.

Speaking on behalf of the president, Vice President of the Women’s Forum Network Cecelia Bangura expressed appreciation for President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership on women’s issues and recognised the first lady’s efforts to combat gender-based violence with initiatives like the “Hands Off Our Girls” policy. She said, “Women of Sierra Leone will no longer be forced to stay behind in development activities.”

Dr. Modupe Taiwo, Director of Programmes and Operations, underscored the importance of empowering women and girls, stressing that 30% of adolescent girls in Sierra Leone are married before the age of 18. She also called for improvements in maternal and child health services and pledged their commitment to addressing these social challenges while advocating for more significant opportunities for girls.

Ambassador Aidan Fitzpatrick of Ireland praised the historic collaboration between Ireland and Sierra Leone in the fight to end gender-based violence. He commended the government for its progress and spoke about the importance of strong policies, including the Child Rights Act, in shaping the nation’s future.

UN Resident Coordinator Sarahine Wakana lauded Sierra Leone’s commitment to gender equality and women’s rights, referencing key initiatives like the Spotlight Initiative and the Gender Transformation Program. She called for continued efforts to address issues such as child marriage and maternal health.

Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs Dr. Isata Mahoi gave an inspiring speech in which she praised President Bio for creating an enabling environment for women. She reaffirmed the country’s commitment to women’s rights through significant policies such as the Child Marriage Act, the Sexual Offences Act, and gender referral pathways. Dr. Mahoi emphasised the need for innovative initiatives to promote women’s empowerment and reaffirmed her ministry’s dedication to addressing women’s concerns.

Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh emphasised the importance of the Radical Inclusion Policy and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to partnerships with stakeholders to support women’s empowerment and development.

The Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, delivered the keynote address. He highlighted Sierra Leone’s achievements in improving women’s welfare, including advancements in education, healthcare, and women’s inclusion in sports and agriculture. He stressed that the government had made remarkable progress in reducing maternal mortality and providing women with opportunities in agricultural businesses through initiatives like Feed Salone. Dr. Jalloh reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring women’s protection and empowerment, emphasising the role of the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs.

As the event concluded, all speakers reinforced the importance of collaboration, policy implementation, and the continued empowerment of women and girls in Sierra Leone.

By Kelvin Mark Kargbo