Ministry of Health Speaks on Energy Concerns at PCMH

April 26, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In response to concerns raised by Dr. Jeredine George, a Specialist Obstetrician Gynaecologist at Princess Christian Maternal Hospital (PCMH), in her Facebook post, with regards the dire circumstances faced by medical professionals and patients alike during a recent power outage at the national OBGYN hospital, the Ministry of Health (MoH), through the Office of Minister has reacted in a Press Release dated 24^th April, 2024.

Responding to the concerns, the Ministry of Health acknowledges the ongoing electricity challenges affecting hospitals nationwide and recognizes their impact on health service delivery. It furthered that it has embarked on a transformative initiative to address those challenges by transitioning to reliable, environmentally friendly and efficient solar power alternatives.

According to the release, traditionally, hospitals have relied on diesel-powered generators during electricity shortages, which not only incur high operational costs but also strain hospital budgets, accounting for over 20% of expenditure.

The Ministry stated that to mitigate such, in collaboration with partners, it has worked diligently over the past year to install solar power plants in major Government hospitals across the country.

It continued how currently, solar power plants have been successfully installed in six major Government hospitals, with plans to install an additional eleven by the end of the year.

According to the Ministry, 300 peripheral health units are slated to receive solar installations by the end of 2024 revealing how in partnership with stakeholders, it provided a 300KW solar solution at the Princess Christian Maternity Hospital (PCMH) and Ola During Children’s Hospital (ODCH) in December 2023, providing supplemental energy solutions.

The release also disclosed that while the solar plant alone cannot exclusively power both hospitals at 1.3MW, it serves as a crucial backup during power outages, particularly for life-saving emergencies.

To enhance the efficiency of these installations, the MoH pointed out how it is implementing several measures which include urgent discussions with the Ministry of Energy to prioritize energy supply to major Government hospitals by installing dedicated power lines, robust resource mobilization and advocacy for the completion of solar power plant installations in all public health facilities and implementation of operational mechanisms to ensure appropriate use of solar power for quality health service delivery.

For PCMH, the MoH said it has facilitated engagements between solar experts and hospital leadership to optimize solar power usage during outages additionally maintaining that backup generators and fuel supplies are being ensured for uninterrupted service.

Regarding leadership challenges at PCMH, the Health Ministry said measures have been initiated to address them, including the official appointment of Dr. Amadu Sesay as Medical Superintendent, recognizing his commendable service.

It also stated that Dr. George is a Medical Resident in Training and she was offered the Medical Superintendent role but she declined in order to focus on her studies.

The Ministry categorically stated that because there was a vacuum due to the lack of a substantive Medical Superintendent at the hospital, Dr. Amadu Sesay was selected about a month ago to take on the Management role as Medical Superintendent. It revealed how Dr. Jeredine George was never demoted or reassigned but rather a vacancy was filled.

The MoH extended heartfelt condolences to the families of those affected by recent challenges and expressed gratitude to all health workers for their unwavering dedication saying despite challenges, the MoH is reaffirming its commitment to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure quality healthcare for all Sierra Leoneans.

Falaba District Council Commissions EU-funded Infrastructure Projects

April 26, 2024

It was a momentous and joyous occasion for the people of the newly established Falaba District, as they witnessed, on 23^rdApril,2024, the historic commissioning of critical infrastructure facilities constructed in partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone and the District Council supported with funds by the European Union.

Hundreds of jubilant indigenes of Falaba District, including youth, women and people from all walks of life, joined distinguished guests, including the Hon. Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Amb. Tamba Lamina and EU Delegation in Sierra Leone, Ambassador Manuel Muller, alongside Parliamentarians, Paramount Chiefs, Local Council leadership, Government officials, the private sector, development partners and other dignitaries from Falaba District to witness the maiden inauguration of key infrastructure projects.

These include the newly constructed multipurpose halls, market structures, grain stores, drying floors and other essential facilities in Mongor and other surrounding communities. This significant event signifies a leap forward in the district’s development journey, made possible through the collaborative efforts of the European Union (EU) and the Government of Sierra Leone.

Known for its immeasurable agricultural productivity, Falaba, which was initially part of Koinadugu District, was established in 2016, with Mongo Bendugu serving as its district headquarter town. Falaba District now borders Koinadugu and Bombali Districts in the Northern Region and the Republic of Guinea.

Being a new district, Falaba has faced challenges in establishing administrative infrastructure, compounded by funding constraints. However, these challenges are being addressed thanks to the EU-funded “Support to Civil Society and Local Authorities for Local Development in Sierra Leone” project. The project supports Falaba’s administrative infrastructure and demonstrates a tangible commitment to strengthening the Local Council’s capacity to deliver on its core mandate of providing social services for the well-being and prosperity of the district’s residents.

The partnership between the EU and the Government of Sierra Leone has been instrumental in driving sustainable development initiatives in the region, emphasizing good governance and community empowerment.

EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Manuel Muller, expressing his delight at the event, noted: “This occasion marks our symbolic support to the Falaba District Council by building their capacity to respond to the development aspirations of its people and enhance sustainable service delivery at the community level. Today, we have witnessed a strong representation of women and young people in the Falaba District Administration. However, I am also encouraged by the active participation of community members in contributing to the district’s development through tax payments, which further supports the Council’s endeavours. This project reaffirms the EU’s dedication to promoting sustainable development and fostering socio-economic growth of Falaba District.”

The project aims to enhance public service delivery by empowering District Councils to catalyze good governance and sustainable development. Through capacity-building initiatives and support for local revenue generation, it seeks to improve access to essential services, promote sustainable agricultural practices and develop critical rural infrastructure.

The newly constructed multipurpose hall will serve as a focal point for official and social events. At the same time, market stores, grain storage facilities and drying floors will contribute to food security and generate income for the Council. Bridges and culverts will improve connectivity, ensuring residents can access education, healthcare and marketplaces.

Moreover, the project has strengthened the institutional capacity of the Falaba District Council in various areas, including development planning, public finance management, land and property management, logistics support, and solar energy supply. Notably, it has supported the district’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating adaptability and resilience in addressing emerging challenges.

Falaba District Council Chairman Ibrahim Sorie Sesay expressed his appreciation for the supportive project, stating, “This initiative has been instrumental in benefiting numerous communities and the people of the district. It has facilitated the acquisition of essential office equipment and provided access to electricity with installed solar panels, which has contributed to increased productivity and efficiency of the Council staff while also generating revenue through a cadastre system.”

He emphasized the milestone achieved in empowering the district to address the needs of residents better, foster economic growth, and deliver services to various communities.

Implemented with technical assistance from DAI, the project extends its support to Civil Society Organisations and District Councils across several districts, including Falaba, Kambia, Kenema, Bombali, Karene, and Pujehun. It represents a holistic approach to local development, emphasizing community participation, sustainability and inclusive growth.

SLURC & PESIA Inaugurate Community Kitchen at Portee Wharf

April 26, 2024

Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre (SLURC) .jpg

By Millicent Senava Mannah

In a significant step towards sustainable development and improved livelihoods, the Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre (SLURC) and Platforms for Energy Security, Innovation and Access (PESIA) have inaugurated a pioneering Community Kitchen Project in the Portee-Rokupa community.

This landmark event, which occurred on April 25th, 2024, marks a crucial milestone in the “Beyond the Networked City” initiative aimed at revolutionizing water, sanitation and energy delivery in urban Africa.

The Community Kitchen comprises various cooking technologies, including Afrigas, LPG Cylinders, local cook stoves, firewood, charcoal, electric coil cookers and specialized ovens for fish, a vital consideration given the community’s predominant engagement in fishing activities. The unveiling ceremony witnessed the participation of stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, including NGOs, INGOs, Governmental institutions and community representatives.

Funded by the UK Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF) and spearheaded by the Universities of Bristol, Loughborough, Makerere and the African Centre for Cities, the Beyond Networked City research project spans three years.

According to Joseph Marcarthy, the Executive Director of SLURC, ensuring access to clean and affordable energy is indispensable for societal well-being and sustainable development.

He emphasized the pivotal role of community kitchens in preparing meals for schools, hospitals and communal settings. However, traditional cooking methods prevalent in many kitchens not only contribute to deforestation but also pose severe health risks due to indoor air pollution.

Joseph Marcarthy underscored the urgent need for innovative and sustainable solutions to transform these kitchens into safe, efficient and environmentally friendly spaces.

Speaking on the community’s behalf, the Executive Director highlighted the challenges faced by residents, including limited access to essential cooking utensils and technologies. The provision of cooking stoves, particularly electric and LPG variants is expected to significantly enhance their quality of life and reduce health hazards associated with pollution and fire accidents, he underscored.

Gopi Krishnamothy, the Commercial Marketing Manager at PESIA, expressed enthusiasm for the project, describing it as a pioneering effort in Sierra Leone’s green cooking landscape. The Community Kitchen offers a unique opportunity for residents to experience and choose from various cooking technologies, ranging from charcoal to electricity, empowering them to make informed decisions based on their preferences and needs.

Kumba Conteh, the Research and Development Head at EGTC expressed delight in contributing to such a transformative endeavour in a deprived community. She pledged continued collaboration with SLURC to extend similar developments to other communities in need.

Mohamed Kamara, representing the Renewable Energy Sector at the Government Technical Institute, commended the successful implementation of the project and urged community members to uphold the facility’s sustainability through responsible usage.

The initiative received accolades from representatives of various organizations, including AVSI and BRAC, acknowledging its commendable impact on community development and well-being.

The event concluded with the official opening of the Community Kitchen by a representative of the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency, symbolizing a step towards a greener, healthier future for Portee-Wharf and beyond.

At 13th Smart Africa Council Meeting in Malawi… DG Brewah Highlights Zoodlabs’ Rapid Response in Restoring Connectivity in Sierra Leone

April 24, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

The 13th Smart Africa Council of African Regulators Meeting is currently underway at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe, Malawi. This prestigious gathering has convened Telecoms Regulators from across the African continent to deliberate on pivotal issues concerning telecommunications service delivery to the people of Africa.

Amara Brewah, the Director General of NatCA, is notably present at the event, representing both the telecoms regulator in Sierra Leone and serving as the Chairman of the West Africa Telecommunications Regulators Assembly (WATRA).

Key focal points of discussion at this gathering include updates on the Smart Africa Triennial Strategy for 2023 – 2025, the establishment of Rules of Procedure for the Council of African Regulators (CAR), and the election of new CAR Chairpersons and Vice Chairpersons. Furthermore, sessions are dedicated to training on best practices in submarine cable policy, particularly emphasizing investment in Digital Inclusion.

Esteemed figures such as Daud Suleman, Director General of MACRA, Lacina Kone, Director General of Smart Africa, and Celestine Kadjidja, President of CAR & ARCEP Gabon, have delivered insightful statements during the sessions.

Central to the discussions is the vision of achieving One Africa Network (OAN), emphasizing the critical role of connectivity in shaping a prosperous digital future for Africa. Brian Longwe of Converged Technology Network delivered a presentation on “Addressing Disparities and Challenges in Subsea Cable Infrastructure across Africa,” underlining the significance of interconnectivity.

During the proceedings, DG Brewah highlighted the rapid response of Zoodlabs in restoring connectivity in Sierra Leone following a recent subsea cable cut in West Africa. While some countries faced days of disconnection, Sierra Leone’s subsea cable challenge was resolved in a mere forty-five minutes, showcasing the effectiveness of established redundancies. DG Brewah’s remarks were met with a round of applause, underscoring the importance of robust telecommunications infrastructure in the region.

Aviation DG & Ethiopian Airlines Delegation Discuss Flight Commencement

April 24, 2024

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By Amin Kef Sesay

A high-level delegation from Ethiopian Airlines recently held discussions with Madam Musayeroh Barrie, Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), in anticipation of the commencement of flights to Freetown.

The meeting, characterized by a cordial exchange, primarily focused on the logistics and arrangements for Ethiopian Airlines’ upcoming operations at the Freetown International Airport (FNA), with flights set to commence via Ouagadougou on May 31st, 2024.

Ethiopian Airlines had previously announced its decision to introduce new passenger services to Freetown, Sierra Leone, on February 23rd, 2024. The thrice-weekly flights will operate through Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, marking a significant expansion of the airline’s presence within West Africa.

This strategic move underscores Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to facilitating enhanced connectivity across the continent and fostering closer ties between African nations. The introduction of the Freetown route is poised to provide travellers with convenient travel options while simultaneously stimulating tourism, trade, and investment activities between Ethiopia, Sierra Leone, and Burkina Faso.

The airline, renowned as the largest flight operator in Africa, aims to deploy Boeing 787-800 aircraft for the new service. These modern aircraft are equipped with various amenities, including spacious seating, personal entertainment systems, and onboard Wi-Fi, ensuring passengers enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.

Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, expressed his enthusiasm about the expansion, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on passengers and the broader economic landscape. Tasew highlighted the potential for increased tourism, trade, and investment opportunities facilitated by the new route.

The flight schedule for the Freetown service will operate as follows:

ET 943: Addis Ababa (ADD) – Ouagadougou (OUA) – Freetown (FNA) on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

ET 942: Freetown (FNA) – Ouagadougou (OUA) – Addis Ababa (ADD) on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Freetown, located on the Atlantic coast of West Africa, serves as a crucial hub for trade and commerce in the region. With its rich natural beauty and diverse wildlife, Sierra Leone presents an attractive destination for leisure travellers and business ventures alike.

In light of this development, Ethiopian Airlines invites travellers to explore the possibilities presented by its expanded network. The airline’s office, situated at 32 Main Motor Road – Congo Cross, welcomes individuals seeking information and assistance regarding travel arrangements.

For inquiries and reservations, individuals can contact Ethiopian Airlines by phone at +232 33 071 071 or visit their official website at www.ethiopianairlines.com. With a wide range of destinations, including Johannesburg, Beirut, Mumbai, Guangzhou, New York, London, and Paris, among others, Ethiopian Airlines offers unparalleled access to global travel experiences.

As Ethiopian Airlines prepares to inaugurate its Freetown route, travellers are encouraged to seize the opportunity to embark on memorable journeys while enjoying the convenience and comfort synonymous with Africa’s premier airline. Book your tickets today and embark on an adventure with Ethiopian Airlines.

Ambassador Navo Unveils $20,000 Star Prize for AYV Miss University 2023/24 Pageant

April 24, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr., CEO of the Africa Young Voices (AYV) Media Empire, on Sunday April 21, 2024 officially revealed the prestigious US$20,000 Star Prize, which includes a brand new car, for the AYV Miss University 2023/24 Pageant during an unveiling ceremony that took place at the esteemed LOR Restaurant in Freetown.

He warmly engaged with attendees, including the nine contestants vying for the title of Miss University, event sponsors, media representatives, bloggers, influencers and other distinguished guests.

“I am thrilled to stand alongside the National Union of Sierra Leone Students (NUSS) and beauty queens from various universities to introduce the brand new car as the Star Prize for Miss University 2023/2024 at LOR Restaurant,” expressed Ambassador Navo Jr. during the event.

Emphasizing the commitment of the AYV Media Empire to empower young people, he stated, “The AYV Miss University 2023/24 Pageant, organized in collaboration with Africell, NUSS, and Eminence Africa, is geared towards showcasing the talents and potentials of our youth, who are the leaders of both today and tomorrow.”

Highlighting the significance of the upcoming pageant, Ambassador Navo Jr. announced that it would feature nine reigning queens from various universities across Sierra Leone. These contestants will compete for the coveted title at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown, on April 26, 2024.

“The winner of the pageant will not only drive home a brand new car provided by Sharlimar Trading Company but will also have the honor of representing Sierra Leone at the Miss University Africa,” he added.

Expressing gratitude to all participants and supporters, Ambassador Navo Jr. reflected on the journey of the AYV Media Empire, emphasizing its mission to foster positive change and provide opportunities for young individuals in Sierra Leone.

“The AYV was founded with the vision of creating a credible media platform to engage and empower our people. Today, as we unveil the Star Prize for Miss University, we reaffirm our commitment to this vision,” he remarked.

President Mohamed Rex Bhonapha of NUSS echoed the sentiment, recognizing the pageant as a platform to celebrate the academic achievements, talents and leadership qualities of young women from universities across the nation.

“The AYV Miss University pageant promotes unity and camaraderie among students, while also addressing important social issues. It offers scholarships and opportunities for personal growth, enriching the lives of participants,” President Bhonapha remarked.

The AYV Miss University 2023/24 Pageant promises to be more than just a beauty contest; it symbolizes a celebration of talent, intelligence, unity and advocacy.

As preparations for the event continue, the call to attend the Miss University Festival grows stronger, inviting individuals to witness the crowning of Sierra Leone’s next ambassador of beauty and intellect.

Prince Jacob Macauley Urges Presidential Action on Sierra Leone’s Energy Crisis

April 24, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a bold move resonating with the frustrations of many, Prince Jacob Macauley has written an open letter to President Julius Maada Bio, highlighting the severity of Sierra Leone’s ongoing electricity crisis and its dire economic repercussions.

Known for his outspoken advocacy on social issues, Prince Jacob Macauley underscored the harrowing impact of frequent power outages on businesses, healthcare services, education, and the day-to-day life of Sierra Leoneans. He described the energy shortfall as a critical barrier to the nation’s growth and development, emphasizing the urgent need for reliable and sustainable energy solutions.

Despite the Government’s efforts to mitigate the crisis, he expressed that the actions taken thus far have fallen short of relieving the population’s struggles and called on President Bio to actively seek support from international partners, such as the International Monetary Fund (I.M.F.), to forge a comprehensive strategy that can rejuvenate the beleaguered energy sector and jumpstart economic recovery.

Prince Jacob Macauley urged the President to initiate dialogue with the I.M.F. and similar institutions for financial aid and technical expertise, which could spur essential reforms, infrastructure upgrades, as well as capacity enhancement in the energy domain.

In his letter, he also encouraged the President to engage with the global community, canvassing for investments and technologies to modernize the energy infrastructure. He advocated for an energy diversification strategy that includes renewable sources and the establishment of public-private partnerships to foster a more reliable and efficient energy system.

The open letter reflects a demand for visionary leadership and the adoption of innovative approaches to tackle the energy crisis head-on. He warned of the consequences of inaction, predicting a continued cycle of underdevelopment and economic stagnation that could erode the quality of life for all Sierra Leoneans.
His heartfelt plea to President Bio reflects the voice of the people — a call for immediate and effective Government intervention to resolve the electricity crisis and propel Sierra Leone toward a more prosperous and sustainable future.

In Defense of Freedom of Speech: Patrick Kai’s Ordeal Sparks Concern

April 24, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

In a troubling turn of events at Kenema University, Patrick Kai, a journalist and student, finds himself entangled in a web of accusations regarding his involvement with a critical Facebook page, “Kenema Kotuku News.” The page has been vocal about issues within the institution including allegations of misconduct by lecturers and administration.

The journalist cum student, who has been active on Social Media and has engaged with the page, now faces accusations of being an admin or informant for the platform. Despite his efforts to maintain a balanced online presence by sharing positive information from the University Administration and the Student Union Government (SUG), he found himself at odds with the page when it began posting negatively. As a matter of fact he is not the founder or admin of the “Kenema Kotuku News.”

However, despite his attempts to distance himself from the page’s negative content, suspicions lingered, culminating in a confrontation with the University Registrar, John Juana, on March 30th. Patrick Kai vehemently denies the accusations, emphasizing that he was mistaken for another commenter, Samuel Swarray, the Minister of Education, who also faces suspicion.

The situation escalated when he was summoned by the Cyber Unit of the Police Force, disrupting his academic pursuits as he was detained for over four hours and had his phone seized.

Despite his cooperation, Patrick Kai remains under scrutiny, with concerns raised about the legality of the investigation and potential infringement on freedom of speech.

His ordeal has sparked wider concern about the protection of free expression particularly in academic settings. With the looming threat of repercussions on his academic standing, Patrick Kai and three other students, detained alongside him on April 16^th, face an uncertain future.

As the saga unfolds, voices advocating for freedom of speech rally behind him, urging authorities to ensure that his rights are upheld and that justice prevails in this troubling episode at Kenema University.

Huge Cache of Narcotics Worth Over $200K Incinerated at TOCU Headquarters

April 24, 2024

By Esther Wright

In a concerted effort to combat the scourge of narcotics, the Sierra Leone Police, in conjunction with allied agencies, conducted a significant operation resulting in the destruction of a substantial quantity of narcotics valued at over two hundred thousand United States Dollars. The incineration took place on Saturday, April 20th, 2024, at the Transnational Organised Crime Unit Headquarters (TOCU), situated at Rogbangba Junction/Hastings.

During a pre-burn press conference, Andrew Jaiah Kaikai, the Executive Director of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, dispelled assertions labelling Sierra Leone as a hub for drug trafficking, citing a lack of substantive evidence to support such claims. He highlighted a prior event in February 2024 where a sizable consignment of confiscated narcotics was publicly destroyed, underscoring the Government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating the drug menace.

The declaration of a National Health Emergency on narcotic drugs, following a Town Hall meeting at the Bintumani Conference Centre, prompted the formation of a National Task Force led by Professor Sahr Foday. Andrew Kaikai urged collective action in collaboration with relevant institutions to combat drug trafficking effectively.

Representing the Inspector General of Police, Commissioner Joseph Ibrahim Lahai reiterated the Sierra Leone Police’s dedication to tackling the narcotics trade, emphasizing the peril it poses to the nation’s youth. He described the incineration as a deterrent to drug traffickers and urged journalists, both domestic and international, to disseminate the message widely.

Dr. Ahmed Sannoh, Deputy National Security Coordinator, praised the interagency cooperation within the security sector, attributing it to the successful seizure of narcotics, including those intercepted at Queen Elizabeth the II Quay and other locations nationwide. The confiscated narcotics included various substances such as tramadol, cannabis sativa, and suspected precursor chemicals for drug production.

Captain Alpha Jayah Bangura, Harbour Master at the Quay, highlighted efforts to establish international networks with port authorities to enhance intelligence sharing and bolster interception of drug traffickers. He reaffirmed the port’s commitment to combating drug abuse, recognizing its pivotal role as a major revenue-generating entity for the Sierra Leonean Government.

The incineration of the confiscated narcotics marked the culmination of the operation, underscoring the ongoing commitment of Sierra Leonean authorities to combating drug trafficking and safeguarding public health.

Caritas Engages Men of Makorbeh Community to Combat Sexual Gender-Based Violence

April 24, 2024

By Millicent Senava Mannah

Caritas Sierra Leone, through its Strengthening Behavioural Change on Sexual Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Project, recently engaged men of Makorbeh Community in Songo, Western Rural Area to discuss the critical role men could play in the fight against SGBV.

The meeting, held on Friday, April 19, 2024, under the shade of trees in front of the Makorbeh R.E.C Primary School, saw a diverse group of men, both young and old, coming together to discuss this pressing issue.

Head of the project, Kumba Emmanuella Gando, outlined the project’s objectives, emphasizing the need to strengthen institutions and engage state actors, focused on SGBV, to educate the public about their mandates. She highlighted that the project is targeting twenty communities in the Western Rural Area, with an extension of six months from its initial one-year period to achieve its goals.

Kumba Gando stressed Caritas’ commitment to ensuring women live in a violent-free society and underscored the importance of men serving as ambassadors in the fight against SGBV.

Abu Bakarr Sesay, the Youth Chairman of Makorbeh Community, shared how the project had heightened awareness about SGBV issues in the community. He expressed a newfound sense of responsibility among men to protect women and girls, positioning himself as an advocate against SGBV in Makorbeh and surrounding areas.

Regarding the current status of SGBV in the community, he noted that while there are presently no reported cases, historical records indicate a prevalence of violence against women and girls in society.

Ahmed Turay, Senior Social Service Officer of the Ministry of Gender in the Western Rural Area emphasized the marginalized status of women, who often suffer various forms of abuse from men. He highlighted the provisions of the Gender Equality and Women Empowerment Act, 2022, designed to protect and empower women to assume leadership roles in society.

Ahmed Turay stressed the importance of viewing women as vital contributors and agents of change rather than targets of violence. He also reminded men that the law protects them as well, urging them to report instances of violence perpetrated against them by women.

Andrew Kponeh, speaking on masculinity and SGBV issues, attributed some men’s abusive behavior toward women to innate physical characteristics. He suggested that if men could better control these tendencies, instances of violence and sexual assault would decrease.

The engagement marked a significant step forward in involving men as allies in the fight against SGBV, highlighting the importance of community-driven initiatives in addressing this pervasive issue.