Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs, Save the Children and Ndomakeh Federation provided Assist Orphaned Children After Mother's Brutal Murder in Kailahun

Lalehun Village, Penguia Chiefdom, Kailahun District (SLENA) – The Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs, in collaboration with Save the Children, has provided critical support to five orphaned children following the tragic murder of their mother in Lalehun Village, Penguia Chiefdom, Kailahun District.

According to Assistant Director Doris Mansaray, who oversees child protection in Kailahun District, the children’s stepfather brutally murdered their mother out of jealousy and attempted to flee to Guinea. Community members later discovered the victim’s body buried in an abandoned pit. The perpetrator was apprehended while trying to escape and is currently in police custody.

Following the discovery, the orphaned children were placed under protective custody. Assistant Director Mansaray, in partnership with Save the Children, facilitated their transfer to the Kailahun Interim Care Centre for further protection. Save the Children provided transportation and dignity kits for the children together with Ndomakeh Federation who facilitated the rehabilitation process. .

The Director of Children's Affairs, Mrs. Joyce Kamara, directed that the children be moved to Freetown for enhanced protection under the Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs. Upon arrival at an interim care facility, Mrs. Kamara, along with senior protection officers Basiru Thullah and Daniel Albert Gbow, visited the children and confirmed they were in stable condition. Throughout their journey and transition, the Ministry ensured the provision of food, foster care, and other essential services for their well-being.

“The children are stabilised, and we have provided psychosocial support and counseling to help them recover from this traumatic event,” Mrs. Kamara stated. “We extend our gratitude to Save the Children and Raining Season Children's Home for their continued support. The Ministry remains committed to child protection and ensures the safety and well-being of children.

Assistant Director Daniel Albert Gbow and Senior Protection Officer Bashiru Thullah also played key roles in supporting and overseeing the children's transition. The Ministry continues to collaborate with development partners, such as Save the Children and Domakeh, to ensure that children receive the care they need.

The Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs has reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding children and addressing child protection concerns across Sierra Leone.