MoGCA Strengthens Child Protection Systems at National Coordination Meeting.

Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs convened a Child Welfare Committee Coordination Meeting on February 12, 2026, with stakeholders at the Ministry headquarters to address urgent child protection priorities and strengthen nationwide service delivery.

Deputy Director Daniel Albert Gbow chaired the session, presenting the meeting as a strategic platform to harmonize ongoing activities, sharpen coordination mechanisms, and align partner strategies with national child protection goals.

Directorate officials presented the finalized child-friendly version of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act. Mr. Gbow stressed that legal frameworks must be accessible to children themselves. “Awareness empowers protection,” he stated. “Children cannot claim rights they do not know.”

Officials outlined bold new advocacy strategies, with media platforms soon featuring children directly amplifying their voices on protection concerns, and school and community outreach programs aiming to establish safe, trusted reporting channels for young people.

Deputy Director Gbow detailed the Directorate’s enhanced oversight role regarding Interim Care Centres. Regular assessments will ensure operational alignment with Ministry mandates. Rehabilitation of the Children’s Directorate itself remains underway, strengthening case management systems and expanding safe spaces for vulnerable children.

Partners raised urgent concerns regarding children placed in orphanages and Interim Care Centres. Complex cases frequently exceed six-month integration timelines. Participants called for clearer operational protocols and stronger collaboration between care facilities. Children’s best interests must anchor every decision.

Deputy Director Aminata Kargbo closed the session with a powerful visual presentation on the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act. Data illuminated the prevalence of early marriage, the acute vulnerability of girls, and the legal consequences facing perpetrators. The presentation reinforced national momentum toward eliminating forced and child marriage entirely.

Thursday’s coordination meeting reaffirmed MoGCA’s unwavering commitment to child protection. Through strengthened partnerships and systems, the Ministry moves forward—determined to safeguard the rights and welfare of every child in Sierra Leone.

Correspondent-Kelvin Mark Kargbo

Communications Unit

Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs

Email: mkelson367@gmail.com