Workshop on Strengthening Civil Society Engagement in Security SectorReform and Governance in Sierra Leone opens.

Civil society organizations (CSOs) from across

Sierra Leone have convened in Freetown for a three-day workshop aimed at enhancing

their engagement in Security Sector Reform and Governance (SSRG). The event, taking

place from 14 to 16 July 2025, brings together participants from civil society,

government, development partners, and technical experts to foster collaboration and

strengthen oversight of the security sector.

The workshop was officially opened today with statements from senior officials

representing UNDP Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the European Union

Delegation, Germany, and the ECOWAS Resident Representative.

"UNDP remains fully committed to supporting civil society engagement in Security Sector

Reform and Governance. We stand with you as Sierra Leone advances toward a security

sector that protects, includes, and empowers every citizen." - Fredrick Ampiah, UNDP

Resident Representative

This workshop is part of ongoing efforts to support Sierra Leone’s democratic

consolidation and security sector transformation. Civil society plays a key role in

promoting inclusive governance, monitoring reforms, and advocating for human rights

and security sector accountability. Discussions are focusing on best practices in

security sector governance, lessons from other West African countries, and approaches

to building stronger partnerships between civil society and state institutions.

"As the Ministry of Internal Affairs, we are committed to creating an environment where

civil society can thrive and play an active role in security sector governance. The journey

may be challenging, but through dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared vision for a safer

Sierra Leone, we can overcome them together." - Honourable Morie Lengor, Minister of

Internal Affairs, Sierra Leone

The event is expected to result in the establishment of a national CSO coordination

platform and the validation of a roadmap for civil society engagement in SSRG. These

outcomes aim to position civil society as a key actor in supporting democratic oversight

and strengthening the delivery of security services.

This event was convened with joint support from the UNDP Sierra Leone and The EU

Support to ECOWAS in Peace, Security, and Governance (EPSG) Project. EPSG

strengthens ECOWAS’ capacity in peacebuilding, security, and governance in West

Africa. The EU co-funded project is commissioned by Germany and implemented by

GIZ, EF and FIAP in partnership with ECOWAS.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, a representative of the German Embassy reaffirmed

their commitment to enhance the strengthening of sector.

"The German Government, reaffirms its commitment to supporting Sierra Leone in its

efforts to strengthen security sector reform, enhance border management, and build

resilience against emerging security threats." – H.E Jens Kraus-Massé, German

Ambassador to Sierra Leone

“Be assured that the EU will remain at your side in accompanying your endeavour to

reduce crime in your country and the West African subregion.” – H.E Jacek Jankowski EU

Head of Delegation to Sierra Leone.

UNDP has supported security sector reform in Sierra Leone since the end of the civil

war in 2002, contributing to initiatives such as the transition of the Sierra Leone Police

into a Police Service, justice sector reforms, and strengthening the rule of law. The

current workshop builds on these efforts and emphasizes the critical contribution of

civil society to security and justice governance.

“ECOWAS stands firmly with Sierra Leone in its efforts to reform and strengthen its

security architecture in a way that enhances human security, safeguards democratic

institutions, and responds to the needs of all citizens.” – Ambassador John Azumah

ECOWAS Resident Representative to Sierra Leone.

Ends

For more information about the project and workshop, please contact:

Ms. Ilemobola Ademola-Adelehin

Governance, Peace and Security Specialist, UNDP Sierra Leone

Email: ilemobola.ademola-adelehin@undp.org

Phone: +232 30 968 996

GIZ contact

Ms. Subetta Chansa

Technical Advisor Security Sector Reform & Governance and Gender, GIZ EPSG Project

Email: subetta.chansa@giz.de

Phone: +234 9139363974