In a stirring address at the Youyi Building in Freetown, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh marked International Women’s Day with a resounding call for greater empowerment and action in advancing women’s rights in Sierra Leone. The event, organised by the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, revolved around this year's global theme: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment.
Dr. Jalloh’s speech celebrated women's resilience, courage, and immense contributions in Sierra Leone and worldwide. While recognising the strides toward gender equality, he stressed the need for continued progress to ensure that women and girls are fully empowered in all sectors of society.
A Commitment to Women’s Progress
“I salute the courage and resilience of our women, who have fought hard and continue to fight for their rights,” Dr. Jalloh stated. He highlighted women's crucial role in shaping Sierra Leone’s education, healthcare, sports, and business.
The Vice President reaffirmed the government’s dedication to gender equality, pointing to the establishment of the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs and the passage of groundbreaking legislation such as the Sexual Offences Act and the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act. He also acknowledged the remarkable increase in girls’ school enrollment and Sierra Leone’s leadership in reducing maternal mortality in West Africa.
Beyond education and healthcare, Dr. Jalloh underscored the importance of economic empowerment for women, noting that financial independence is key to achieving true gender equality. He highlighted government initiatives that support women entrepreneurs and called for better access to finance and policies that foster the growth of women-led businesses.
A National Women’s Conference Proposed
To further advance the gender agenda, Dr. Jalloh proposed the establishment of a National Women’s Conference. This platform would allow women nationwide to reflect on progress, identify challenges, and strategise for the future. “This event should not only be a celebration but a time for serious reflection and planning for the future of women in Sierra Leone,” he said.
Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs Weighs In
Speaking at the event, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, commended the country’s progress in advancing women’s rights and credited the government’s commitment to gender inclusivity. She praised Dr. Jalloh’s leadership in creating a political environment conducive to women’s empowerment, emphasising that this year’s theme—Rights, Equality, and Empowerment—aligns with Sierra Leone’s development priorities.
Dr. Mahoi acknowledged the legislative milestones achieved, including the Sexual Offences Act and the GEWE Act, but stressed that challenges remain, particularly in tackling gender-based violence. She called for collective action from government institutions, civil society, and development partners to ensure every woman and girl in Sierra Leone can reach her full potential. “Laws alone are not enough; we need a mindset shift that fosters a safer, more inclusive society,” she urged.
Voices from the Women’s Forum
Madam Cecelia Bangura, Vice President of the Women’s Forum Sierra Leone, also delivered a powerful address. She reflected on the long struggle against gender-based violence and discrimination and commended Vice President Jalloh for championing key initiatives, including the Child Marriage Act and Women’s Rights Protection laws.
Madam Bangura emphasised the crucial role of the Women’s Forum in community advocacy and pledged ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs to further women’s empowerment. “Women in Sierra Leone will no longer be relegated to the background but will walk side by side with men in national development,” she declared, underscoring the growing momentum for gender equality.
A Call for Localized Action
As he closed his address, Dr. Jalloh reiterated the progress made but acknowledged that the journey toward full gender equality is far from complete. He emphasised the need for more substantial community-led efforts to combat gender-based violence and protect women at the grassroots level. “We must not only focus on top-down interventions but also strengthen local capacity to protect women,” he said.
The International Women’s Day celebration in Freetown was a powerful reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to achieve gender equality in Sierra Leone. With strong leadership, policy commitments, and the active engagement of civil society, the country is making significant strides in women’s empowerment. As Dr. Jalloh and other stakeholders push for inclusive development, the message is clear: Sierra Leone’s future must be built on equal rights, opportunities, and empowerment.
Aminata Turay
8/03/2025
Office Of Vice President
099776914
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