By Ibrahim Sesay
Kids Advocacy Network (KAN) has announced preparations for the upcoming National Girls Empowerment Forum (NaGEF) while also sealing a new partnership with the Universal Access Development Fund (UADF) at a Press Conference held on 9th September 2025 at the AYV Media Empire.
Edmond Fornah, Executive Director of Kids Advocacy Network, explained that the Forum has become a flagship platform that brings together girls from across Sierra Leone to interact with inspirational women leaders who mentor and motivate them. He stated that the 2025 edition, which is the 10th edition of the Forum, will take place from October 10 to 14 to coincide with the International Day of the Girl Child. This year’s discussions will focus on digitalization and girls’ empowerment.
He further highlighted that the Forum will host influential figures such as former Vice President of Liberia, Jewel Taylor, the First Lady of Sierra Leone and the youngest Youth Minister in the world from Botswana. Edmond Fornah also disclosed that sessions will cover leadership, self-confidence, health and technology, with strong support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
Speaking on the new partnership, the Executive Director revealed that the Universal Access Development Fund has pledged to provide mobile phones for girls in deprived communities and to offer financial support to ensure the success of the Forum.
Abu Bakarr Sesay, who signed the Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of the Universal Access Development Fund, said the agreement is part of their mandate to expand access to information and communication technology in Sierra Leone. He stressed that the organization is working to close the digital divide by providing ICT services, building community digital centers and expanding mobile connectivity, adding that collaboration with Kids Advocacy Network will enhance efforts to empower women and girls through technology.
Also addressing the event, Dr. Ezekiel Duramany Lakkoh, Board Chairman of Kids Advocacy Network, welcomed the partnership and noted that combining women’s empowerment with technological advancement is crucial in today’s world. He emphasized that the initiative will help bring girls closer to technology and reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to supporting the vision of the organization.
Edmond Fornah further highlighted that in addition to the National Girls Empowerment Forum, Kids Advocacy Network will host the Africa Young Leaders Summit in collaboration with the Commonwealth Youth Council from November 24 to 28 at the Bintumani Conference Centre. The summit will bring together young leaders from across Africa for dialogue and engagement.
The Press Conference concluded with the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Kids Advocacy Network and the Universal Access Development Fund, followed by a photo session that sealed the historic partnership.
