The Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs has celebrated the remarkable achievement of Hon. Chief Joseph Sinnah, who has been duly elected to the African Union (AU) Expert Committee on the Child Rights Act. This milestone marks a significant accomplishment for Sierra Leone and underscores the Ministry’s dedication to child protection and welfare.
The event, held at the Ministry's headquarters in Freetown, was attended by key government officials, including Minister of Gender and Children's Affairs, Hon. Dr Isata Mahoi; Deputy Minister, Hindowa Bindi; Permanent Secretary, Mrs Aminata Sannoh; Director of Planning and Policy, Ibrahim Kamara; Director of Children's Affairs, Mrs Joyce Kamara; and Deputy Secretary, Andrew A.B. Kamara, along with other ministry representatives.
Assistant Director of the Planning Directorate Dennis Koroma opened the event with an introductory statement, setting the stage for Minister Mahoi's keynote address. In her speech, she commended the Ministry’s staff for their collective efforts in supporting Hon. Chief Sinnah’s successful bid and reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to child protection policies.
“This achievement is a testament to our dedication to advancing children's rights in Sierra Leone. The Child Rights Act played a pivotal role in gaining international recognition, and we remain committed to working tirelessly to ensure the protection and welfare of our children,” Dr Mahoi stated.
Director of Planning and Policy Ibrahim Kamara provided insights into the rigorous election process, highlighting the four intense sessions that led to Chief Sinnah’s selection. “It was a challenging journey. We endured sleepless nights, but in the end, Sierra Leone emerged victorious,” he noted.
The Director of Children’s Affairs, Mrs. Joyce Kamara, presented Hon. Chief Sinnah with a bouquet as a symbol of appreciation for his outstanding contribution to promoting child rights.
Hon. Chief Sinnah expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s unwavering support in his address and emphasised the importance of child protection policies. He acknowledged the challenges of the election process and credited the Ministry’s efforts in promoting the Child Rights Act as a key factor in his success.
“We are committed to making Sierra Leone proud. This victory is not just mine but for every child whose rights we strive to protect. I applaud the Ministry for its dedication and look forward to working with the AU to advance the cause of child rights across the continent,” Hon. Chief Sinnah declared.
The ceremony concluded with a resounding commitment from all stakeholders to continue advocating for policies safeguarding the rights and welfare of children in Sierra Leone.
Kelvin Mark Kargbo
Correspondent, Sierra Leone News Agency
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