By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Safe Space SL initiative is embarking on a groundbreaking mission to empower Sierra Leone’s local communities to sustainably address sexual health, gender-based violence and societal taboos. The strategy, rooted in capacity building and community engagement is designed to ensure that the strides made by the organization endure long after its active involvement.
Safe Space SL aims to bolster local organizations by identifying and partnering with existing NGOs and community-based groups with shared goals. Through resource allocation, training, and mentorship, these groups can adopt and carry forward the responsibilities and activities initiated by Safe Space SL.
The strategy also extends to empowering community leaders and influencers, arming them with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle sexual health and gender-based violence issues within their communities. This is achieved through the creation and implementation of community-led programs focused on sexual health education, gender equality, and violence prevention.
Safe Space SL is also fostering a cooperative network by establishing partnerships between community groups, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and local authorities. Together, these entities will collaboratively tackle sexual health issues.
The initiative also involves the development of culturally sensitive and context-specific educational materials, in collaboration with local educators and experts. Ensuring these materials are integrated into both formal and informal education systems is a key goal.
In addition, Safe Space SL is providing training to local teachers, healthcare workers, and community leaders, equipping them to effectively deliver sexual health education and ensure its sustained impact.
The organization also aims to influence policy development by assisting local partners in advocating for policies that address sexual health, gender-based violence, and related issues. This includes establishing monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the progress of community-led initiatives and using the gathered data to advocate for continued support from government agencies and stakeholders.
The strategy further encompasses the development of income-generating projects and vocational training programs for women and youth aimed at enhancing economic independence and reducing vulnerability.
Furthermore, Safe Space SL is exploring the use of technology for ongoing education and awareness campaigns, leveraging mobile phones and online platforms to disseminate information. This includes the establishment and sustainability of community health clinics that offer accessible and affordable sexual health services.
With a robust system for ongoing community feedback, Safe Space SL ensures its initiatives remain responsive to the evolving community needs. A comprehensive legacy plan will document achievements, challenges, and lessons learned, serving as a guide for future organizations and initiatives addressing similar issues in Sierra Leone.
The entity is devoted to leaving a lasting impact on Sierra Leone’s communities, ensuring that positive changes initiated during its tenure continue to thrive far into the future.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Safe Space SL is Adeola Carew, a skilled lawyer dedicated to dismantling gender injustices. Next to her is the President, Xenobia Kargbo, who is armed with a Master’s Degree in Gender and International Relations and is adept to strategically navigate global dynamics.
Together, they lead a feminist organization, merging legal acumen and international perspectives to champion equality and amplify the voices of women worldwide.
