THE MINISTRY OF GENDER AND CHILDREN'S AFFAIRS HOLDS INAUGURAL PLANNING MEETING FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY 2025.

The Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs convened its first planning and coordination meeting today at its headquarters to prepare for the upcoming International Women's Day (IWD), scheduled for March 8, 2025. This year's celebration will be held under the theme: "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment."

The meeting brought together key ministry officials, including the Director of Gender, Ms Marian Goodie Sowonie; Assistant Director, Ms Bamie Sesay; Director of Planning and Policy, Mr Ibrahim Kamara; and Deputy Chief Director, Mr Charles Vandy. Development partners and representatives from various organisations also attended to share insights and contribute to the planning process.

Chairing the meeting, Ms Sowonie welcomed participants and introduced ministry officials and stakeholders. She emphasised the significance of International Women's Day in advocating for women's rights, equality, and empowerment. Highlighting the ministry's commitment, she stated, "These are the landmark developments we would love to achieve."

Delivering opening remarks on behalf of the Ministry, Deputy Chief Director Mr. Charles Vandy underscored the importance of collective collaboration in organising this year's event. Reflecting on previous planning efforts, he encouraged all stakeholders to work together to amplify women's advocacy, focusing on rights, equality, and empowerment. Mr. Vandy also addressed persistent challenges faced by women, including gender-based violence and sexual abuse. He urged development partners to unite in amplifying women's voices nationwide, stressing, "We need to collaborate for women's empowerment."

Ms. Sowonie further outlined key planned activities for IWD 2025, including a National Dialogue on Policy, a National Advocacy Forum, and a Media and Communication Sensitization campaign. She noted that these activities would be organised through designated committee groups to ensure effective planning and execution.

Participants also discussed potential locations for this year's commemoration, with many suggesting Bo Town as an ideal venue to host the national event.

The meeting concluded with an open discussion on setting the agenda for the next planning session, scheduled for Wednesday. Discussions also focused on strategies for mobilising resources and funding to support the successful execution of the International Women's Day celebrations.

Kelvin Mark Kargbo mkelson367@gmail.com +232 78 104964