The Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs officially inaugurated the Secretariat Office for the Network of Female Parliamentarians (NeWMaP) at the Ministry's headquarters in a milestone event. Ms Goodie Sowonie, the Director of Gender, chaired the ceremony, bringing high-profile stakeholders from the Ministry, NeWMaP, civil society, and development partners.
Key attendees included the Minister of Gender and Children's Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi; Deputy Minister Hindowa Bindi; Chief Director Joseph Sunday Sinnah; Director of Children's Affairs, Mrs Joyce Kamara; Permanent Secretary Mrs Aminata Sannoh; representatives from NeWMaP and Campaign for Good Governance (CGG); consultants; and other Ministry officials.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Goodie Sowonie welcomed the attendees and provided an overview of the event. She emphasised the newly established Secretariat's importance in supporting female parliamentarians and outlined the duties assigned to the appointees to ensure the office operates effectively.
Permanent Secretary Mrs. Aminata Sannoh followed with a welcome address, expressing gratitude to all participants and encouraging those appointed to the Secretariat to demonstrate efficiency and dedication.
A representative from NeWMaP underscored the significance of the Secretariat's establishment within the Ministry, highlighting its role in providing critical administrative support to female parliamentarians. The representative also unveiled key office supplies, including printers, desks, cartridges, and other essential equipment, ensuring seamless operations.
The Executive Director of CGG, Mrs Marcella Samba Sesay,, outlined NeWMaP and CGG's collaborative roles in strengthening women's political representation. She emphasised the need for commitment, teamwork, and ongoing partnerships to advance women's empowerment in parliament and politics. “This office represents a critical step in enabling female parliamentarians to amplify their voices and drive positive change,” she noted.
The Country Director of Trocaire delivered a statement reaffirming the organisation's commitment to promoting gender equality, alleviating poverty, and addressing pressing social issues. She applauded the Ministry’s dedication to empowering women and creating inclusive governance structures.
In her keynote address, Dr. Isata Mahoi, Minister of Gender and Children's Affairs, commended the establishment of the NeWMaP Secretariat and described it as a strategic initiative to strengthen women's leadership and advocacy. She reiterated the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to ending gender-based violence (GBV) and advancing women’s empowerment nationwide.
“I am thrilled to see the opening of this Secretariat, which signifies progress in our collective efforts to empower women and ensure their active participation in decision-making processes,” Dr. Mahoi stated. She urged the appointees to uphold professionalism, teamwork, and diligence.
Dr. Mahoi concluded her address with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting to officially open the NeWMaP Secretariat Office, a moment met with applause and commendations from participants.
The inauguration of the NeWMaP Secretariat marks a significant step towards enhancing the capacity of female parliamentarians, fostering gender equality, and advancing women’s roles in leadership and governance in Sierra Leone.
Kelvin Mark Kargbo
SLENA Correspondent
Tel: +242 80 654-582
Email: mkelson367@gmail.com
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