By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The First Lady of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, on Monday November 25, 2024 officially launched the Real Man Campaign as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Speaking on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio at the Bintumani International Conference Center in Freetown, the First Lady emphasized the Government’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence and empowering women and girls across the nation.
The campaign, organized by the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MGCA) in collaboration with partners, is themed “Beijing +30: Joyn an for Tap Bad Tin Pan Uman en Gyal Pikin” and seeks to foster a culture of equality and justice.
In her keynote address, Dr. Fatima Bio highlighted Sierra Leone’s achievements under her husband’s administration, citing the Free Quality Education initiative, nationwide distribution of sanitary pads and the declaration of sexual education for girls. She also pointed to the separation of the Ministry of Social Welfare into distinct entities, including MGCA, as a step toward targeted action.
“Thanks to a real man, His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Sierra Leone is seeing progress in the fight against GBV. Our women and girls deserve better and we must end this madness,” she declared.
Dr. Fatima Bio condemned heinous acts like the recent tragic case of Kadija, a young girl allegedly raped and killed by a teacher, vowing to work tirelessly to secure justice for victims and create a society free from violence and fear.
The First Lady called on men to embrace their roles as protectors and partners, urging them to respect women and girls as equals. “If you cherish your mother, you will cherish women and girls,” she said, reiterating her commitment to ensuring justice for survivors of GBV.
Chairing the event, Presidential Adviser on Gender Affairs, Isata Kabbah, emphasized that combating GBV requires collective effort. She noted that the campaign targets men as role models to inspire societal change, stressing the need to foster positive masculinity.
The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr Isata Mahoi, praised Dr. Fatima Bio’s Hands Off Our Girls initiative, which has distributed sanitary pads to schoolgirls and supported laws such as the Sexual Offences Act and the Child Marriage Act. She announced that the progressive Child Rights Amendment Bill, aligned with President Bio’s vision, is under parliamentary review and aims to enhance protections for children.
The Deputy Attorney-General, Alpha Sesay, highlighted strides in strengthening legal frameworks, offering free legal services to GBV victims and appointing 30% women in the justice sector.
Additionally, the Sierra Leone Police representative revealed ongoing efforts to compile GBV statistics and establish a One-Stop Center at the Aberdeen Police Station.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, pledged zero tolerance for GBV and outlined the Ministry’s initiatives, including setting up treatment centers nationwide. However, he acknowledged challenges such as underreporting, cultural norms and resource gaps in tackling the menace.
United Nations Resident Representative Sarafine Wakanah stressed the importance of addressing harmful cultural practices and pledged the UN’s support for systematic reforms to reduce GBV.
Similarly, the Irish Ambassador lauded Sierra Leone’s legislative progress and announced a four-year Le375 million Spotlight Program to strengthen GBV prevention and response mechanisms.
The event featured a documentary screening, cultural performances and a skit by One Family People, spotlighting GBV’s impact. He4She Champions were recognized for their advocacy and children’s rights activist Morrison Bockarie delivered a vote of thanks.
The Real Man Campaign and the broader 16 Days of Activism seek to unite Sierra Leoneans against GBV, creating a safer, more equitable society. As Dr. Fatima Bio concluded, “Together, we can build a future where no one lives in fear.”
