SHE LEADS, Plan International, Defense for Children, Women’s Forum, and Ministry of Gender Convey Two-Day Workshop on Girls & Young Women’s Empowerment.

The SHE LEADS project, Plan International, Defense for Children, Women’s Forum, and the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs convened a high-level, two-day workshop focused on pathways to empower girls and young women. Key officials in attendance included Hawanatu Mansaray (Coordinator, SHE LEADS), Sylvester Gbewie (National Youth Commission), Daniel Albert Gbow (Deputy Director, Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs), Harry Mahoi (Deputy Director, Planning Directorate), Khadija Bakarr (Head of Programs, Plan International), alongside representatives from various girls’ and women’s organizations.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Hawanatu Mansaray, Coordinator for SHE Leads emphasized the importance of the gathering and reflected on the active participation of girls and young women in institutional platforms.

She identified several persistent challenges including under-representation, limited resources and space for meaningful inclusion, low levels of awareness and education—especially at tertiary institutions—and ongoing economic disparities.

Ms. Mansaray called for the development of stronger policies, programs, laws, and action plans, urging participants: “We need your insights toward addressing girls’ and women’s concerns.”

Khadija Bakarr, the Head of Programmes at Plan International praised the SHE LEADS project for its contributions and outlined the obstacles faced by girls and women—particularly their restricted roles in politics, education, and social opportunities.

She encouraged greater collaboration between Governmental bodies and NGOs to amplify empowerment efforts.

Sylvester Gbewie from the National Youth Commission, highlighted his officer's role in advancing gender-focused initiatives.

He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment through regional coordination frameworks and referenced the 2024 National Youth Service Act, which aims to integrate non-degree holders into the workforce.

Mr Gbewie noted that, 70 percent of beneficiaries in youth-driven programs are girls and women adding that, the landmark Comprehensive Report on the Status of Young People, addresses their specific concerns.

Assistant Director Martha Feika from Bo District called on the attention of mobility issues for young girls and emphasized the need for personal development strategies within national programs like International Women’s Day, World Children’s Day, and the Day of the African Child. She stressed that adequate funding and support are essential for child-led initiatives and to ensure that marginalized voices are heard.

Harry Mahoi from the Planning Directorate, MoPED, highlighted policies aimed at including women and girls with disabilities in decision-making.

He stressed, “We need to integrate young people into our socio‑economic development,” and called for enhanced and advocacy-focused policy commitments.

Jusufu Gbondo, representing Moyamba District from the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, urged stakeholders to mobilize resources and strengthen programming efforts for girls and women. He emphasized the importance of robust advocacy by women’s and children’s organizations to ensure that, the policies are firmly embedded for future leaders.

Sylvanus Conteh from Koinadugu District's Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs said they have a district-level steering committee that is addressing gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual and gender-based violences (SGBV).

He noted that local bylaws, endorsed by councils, offer improved protection; underscoring the importance of national events—such as the Day of the African Child and International Women’s Day—in maintaining visibility for these issues.

He recommended the establishment of stronger frameworks, joint monitoring mechanisms, and realistic policies to bolster participation and representation.

The two-day workshop concluded with interactive sessions where participants shared suggestions on strategies, establishing bodies to facilitate the transition from girlhood to womanhood, and planning future initiatives.

Kelvin Mark Kargbo

mkelson367@gmail.com +232 78 104964