By Millicent Senava Mannah
In a grand event on March 7th, 2024, Africell Sierra Leone marked International Women’s Day at their headquarters in Wilberforce Village. The ceremony gathered influential women and distinguished figures to shine a spotlight on this year’s theme, “Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress.”
Gender Expert and Officer in Charge at the UN Department, Miss Baindu Massaquoi, who served as the master of ceremonies, spoke about the significance of the day and the critical role of gender equality in fostering business innovation and open markets.
Deputy Commissioner of Labour, ChibLee Francis Kamara, emphasized the importance of workers’ rights and employers’ obligations within the framework of Sierra Leonean labor law. He highlighted the need for future discussions on labor issues, given the constraints of time during the event.
Assistant Director of the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Miss Hannah Lahai-Robinson, called for the celebration of women’s achievements and addressed the barriers to gender equality. She advocated for women’s access to finance, the establishment of gender units in ministries, departments, and agencies, and a minimum of 30% female representation in the workforce.
Senior Human Rights Adviser at the United Nations, Uchenna Emelonye, discussed the societal challenges impeding women’s progress and called for attitudinal change and assertiveness as rights for women.
Shadi Gerjawi, Managing Director of Africell SL and a “He for She Champion,” spoke passionately about the company’s commitment to women’s empowerment, revealing Africell’s aim to exceed the government’s 30% quota for women in management by targeting 50%.
Michaella Mackey Esq., a respected Lawyer and Corporate Affairs Expert, shared her career journey, emphasizing the importance of consistency, clear communication, and setting boundaries.
Sia Lajaku-Williams from the International Labour Organization (ILO) reminded attendees of Sierra Leone’s longstanding membership in the ILO since 1961 and the nation’s commitment to 45 conventions.
Anita Adams, Head of the Commercial Banking Group at Access Bank, assured that gender equality is at the forefront of the bank’s agenda, while Dr. Elizabeth Allieu spoke on the importance of mental health practices in achieving sound social wellbeing.
The event concluded with Africell SL’s top female management making commitments to inspire their junior colleagues, a female-led song, and a vote of thanks, all affirming the company’s dedication to the empowerment of women in the workplace and beyond.
