The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, in partnership with UN Women and the Government of Iceland, held a district town hall meeting in Bo as part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign.
The meeting attracted key stakeholders from government, civil society, and the local community and focused on strategies to combat GBV and promote gender equality. It was chaired by Kenneth Amadu of the Child Rights Coalition and featured prominent speakers, including Hindowa Bindi, Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs; I.J. Kabba, Gender Adviser at the Office of the President; Bo District Deputy Mayor Mrs. Campbell; and Ms. Goodie Sowonie, Director of Gender. Representatives from UN Women and other local leaders were also in attendance.
In his opening remarks, Mr Amadu stressed the collective responsibility to end violence against women and girls, urging attendees to champion anti-GBV initiatives in their communities.
Director of Gender, Ms. Sowonie, highlighted the ministry’s objectives for the campaign, including the “Real Man Campaign,” which aims to engage men and boys as allies in the fight against GBV. Reflecting on high-profile violence cases, she emphasised the need for vigilance and collaboration.
Deputy Mayor Mrs Campbell reaffirmed Bo District’s commitment to empowering women and children through education and leadership opportunities. She condemned child marriage, child labour, and all forms of abuse, emphasising the importance of providing equal opportunities for all.
Hannah Robinson, Assistant Director of Gender, presented alarming statistics, revealing that 60% of Sierra Leonean women and girls aged 15-45 have experienced violence. She highlighted existing measures to address the issue, such as one-stop centres for survivors, the toll-free 116 hotlines, and implementing the 2021 Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Strategy and the GEWE Act.
UN Women representative Uslu Maylla commended the government’s leadership on GBV prevention and emphasised the importance of collective action. “Real change requires everyone’s commitment,” she said, reiterating UN Women’s support for campaigns like the “Real Man Campaign.”
In his keynote address, Deputy Minister Hindowa Bindi reaffirmed the government’s dedication to gender equality under President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership. He encouraged stakeholders to take active roles in eradicating GBV and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 5, which focuses on gender equality.
The event concluded with a call to action, urging communities to prioritise education, awareness, and collaboration in the fight against GBV.
Kelvin Mark Kargbo
Contact: mkelson367@gmail.com
+232 80 644-582
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