By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, has taken a significant step in the fight against human trafficking by partnering with the Ministry of Social Welfare and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force to launch the, “Victims of Human Trafficking Trust Fund” on Friday February 23, 2024. The formal inauguration took place at the Freetown City Council Hall.
During her keynote address at the launch, Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, underscored the gravity of human trafficking, a focal point of the “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign. She reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to eradicating this scourge in collaboration with relevant authorities.
Highlighting the harrowing realities of human trafficking, Her Excellency shared the tragic story of a 17-year-old girl deceived with promises of a computer science program in Dubai, only to face exploitation and abuse in Freetown. She emphasized the prevalence of such cases, urging heightened awareness and psychosocial support for victims.
In a passionate call to action, the First Lady urged mothers to protect their children and emphasized the importance of unity in addressing this issue, transcending political divides. She announced plans to integrate anti-trafficking messaging into the upcoming free Sanitary Pads campaign and encouraged vigilance among school children.
Concluding her address, Her Excellency implored the Government, partners, and stakeholders to generously support the Trust Fund, ensuring targeted assistance for survivors.
In recognition of her tireless efforts to safeguard children from exploitation, Her Excellency was honored as the National Anti-Human Trafficking Champion. “I’m very proud but humbled at the same time to be named the National Anti-Human Trafficking Champion,” she remarked.
Mrs. Narsu Ndemema, Chairperson of the event, underscored the Trust Fund’s significance as a testament to the government’s determination to combat human trafficking and protect its citizens.
Hon. Melrose Karminty, Minister of Social Welfare, welcomed attendees and stressed the pivotal role of the initiative in combating trafficking and supporting survivors. She reiterated the government’s commitment to shielding vulnerable groups and ensuring freedom from trafficking for all Sierra Leoneans.
Christopher Christodoulies, Country Representative of the International Organization for Migration, emphasized the importance of restoring dignity to survivors and called for increased financial support for the Trust Fund to effectively fulfill its mandate.
In another momentous event held on Thursday February 22, 2024 at the Sierra Palms Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, unveiled the National Commission for Children’s Strategic Plan 2024-2028.
The strategic blueprint, unveiled on February 22, 2024, maps out a comprehensive trajectory aimed at bolstering the well-being and prospects of children across Sierra Leone over the next five years. It places particular emphasis on pivotal sectors such as education, healthcare, child protection, and advocacy for the rights of children.
During the launch ceremony, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio underscored the critical significance of investing in the nation’s youth, asserting, “Our children represent not just our tomorrow, but also our today. By furnishing them with indispensable resources and opportunities, we are erecting the foundation for a more robust and prosperous Sierra Leone that benefits all.”
Founded in 2007, the National Commission for Children (NCC) holds a pivotal role in championing and safeguarding the rights of children throughout Sierra Leone. Formulated through extensive consultations with stakeholders, this freshly introduced strategic plan is poised to steer the Commission toward realizing its objectives for the advancement of Sierra Leone’s youth.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of Government dignitaries, delegates from international bodies, representatives of civil society organizations, and advocates for children’s rights. This event underscores Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to securing a promising future for its youngest populace.
