By Esther Wright
The tragic death of Sia Fatu Kamara, a young and promising Communications Executive at the Freetown City Council (FCC), has cast a harsh spotlight on the ongoing scourge of domestic violence in Sierra Leone. Her demise is not just a personal loss but a societal wound, demanding urgent attention and action.
Sia was more than just a public servant; she was a beacon of hope for Freetown’s vision of a greener and more sustainable city. However, her life was cut short under circumstances that reflect the harsh realities faced by too many women in our society. Allegations point to a brutal attack by her boyfriend, leaving her with fatal injuries, including broken ribs and a damaged spinal cord. While the accused remains in custody at the Lumley Police Station, the principle of presumed innocence remains.
Nonetheless, the Criminal Investigations Department of the Sierra Leone Police must conduct a thorough and transparent investigation. If the evidence supports the allegations, the justice system must act decisively, delivering the full weight of the law to the perpetrator if convicted. Such a response is essential not only for justice for Sia but as a clear message that domestic violence will not be tolerated.
Sia Fatu Kamara’s case is one of many that highlight the pervasiveness of domestic violence in Sierra Leone. Gender-Based Violence (GBV) remains deeply embedded in the cultural, economic and social fabric of the country. According to a World Bank report, 62% of women and girls aged 15-49 experience physical or sexual violence, with spousal violence accounting for 61%. For women and girls living with disabilities, the risk is even higher—two to three times that of their non-disabled counterparts.
These statistics reveal a grim reality, especially in regions like Port Loko, where 81% of married women in the same age group report experiencing violence. In contrast, Kenema records a lower rate of 35%. Despite the existence of laws like the Domestic Violence Act of 2007, enforcement remains weak, with systemic delays and societal stigma contributing to underreporting and secondary victimization of survivors.
The death of Sia Fatu Kamara should be a catalyst for profound cultural and systemic change. Domestic violence must no longer be seen as a private issue or justified by harmful societal norms. We need to challenge the toxic attitudes that perpetuate silence and suffering. Education and community engagement are key to this transformation. Schools, religious institutions, community leaders, and media outlets must collaborate in raising awareness and shifting public perception about domestic violence.
Addressing domestic violence requires a comprehensive strategy. Strengthening legal frameworks, increasing support for survivors and enhancing the capacity of law enforcement and judicial systems are crucial. Police Officers must receive specialized training to handle domestic violence cases with sensitivity and effectiveness. Additionally, the judiciary needs resources to expedite cases, reducing the delays that often exacerbate the trauma for survivors.
Psychosocial support services are equally critical. These services, which include counseling, mental health support and rehabilitation programs, must be made more accessible, especially in rural and underserved areas. Safe homes should be established for survivors, offering them refuge and necessary care. Health practitioners also need training to recognize and appropriately respond to signs of domestic violence.
Sia Fatu Kamara’s death must not be in vain. It should ignite a national movement to eradicate domestic violence. Her story is a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action to protect women and girls in Sierra Leone. We must stand together—government, civil society, and communities—to declare that enough is enough.
In her memory, let us work toward a future where every woman and girl can live without fear in their own homes. We owe it to Sia, and to every citizen, to ensure a Sierra Leone free from violence.
