The High Commission of India, in collaboration with UN Women, marked International Women’s Day (IWD) with a significant event at Sierra Palms Resort. The occasion brought together key stakeholders, including Indian High Commissioner Baisnab Charan Pradhan, UN Women Head of Office Setcheme Mongbo, and Deputy Chief Director of the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs Charles Vandi, alongside representatives from the Indian delegation.
In her opening remarks, Setcheme Mongbo welcomed dignitaries and participants, emphasising the importance of engaging the private sector in advancing women’s empowerment. She highlighted the Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs) and the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act as key frameworks for action. Mongbo commended the Indian delegation for their continued commitment to international partnerships and efforts to advance gender equality. “Our institution plays the role of a facilitator in fostering continuous partnerships,” she stated, reaffirming UN Women’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment.
High Commissioner B.C. Pradhan provided an overview of the status of women in India, acknowledging the significance of celebrating IWD. He thanked UN Women for their unwavering support in promoting women’s rights. Pradhan underscored the importance of healthcare, education, and economic empowerment as fundamental tools for advancing women’s development. He highlighted India’s women empowerment initiatives, government-backed programs, and the role of the financial and private sectors in fostering women's inclusion. “The economic and financial sectors play a crucial role in empowering women,” he noted.
Pradhan also introduced India’s “Save the Girl Child” initiative, aimed at supporting young girls through housing facilities, dignity kits, and one-stop centers, including provisions for similar programs in Sierra Leone. He further elaborated on India’s legislative framework addressing sexual harassment and the country’s expanding female participation in the workforce. Additionally, he announced financial loan schemes for women's education and job placement opportunities, underscoring India’s commitment to gender inclusion. He expressed appreciation to the Sierra Leonean government and UN Women for their dedication to gender equality.
Representing the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Deputy Chief Director Charles Vandi commended the Indian delegation’s contributions to Sierra Leone’s development, particularly in healthcare, education, and job creation. He acknowledged India’s role in supporting the country’s Human Capital Development agenda. Vandi reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to celebrating and empowering women, particularly those in vulnerable situations. He emphasised the achievements of the GEWE Act of 2022, which champions women’s advocacy and public sector participation, and called for continued collaboration between the Indian community and the Sierra Leonean government.
The event concluded with a dynamic Q&A session, focusing on critical issues such as women’s healthcare, education, and training. Responses were provided by women who have contributed significantly to the Indian community in Sierra Leone, shedding light on the strides made toward gender equality.
Kelvin Mark Kargbo
Correspondent, Sierra Leone News Agency
Contact: 078104964
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