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The Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh has officially launched the €15 million EU-UN Spotlight Initiative, reflecting the Government’s commitment to ending violence against women and girls.
The launch took place at the New Brookfields Hotel and attracted key stakeholders, including representatives from the United Nations, the European Union, and various national institutions such as the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs and the Ministry of Social Welfare. Civil society organizations, notably the Rainbo Initiative, were also present.
During his opening speech, Chief Minister Sengeh characterized the launch as a crucial moment in the nation’s efforts to combat gender-based violence. He stated, “We are not just launching another programme; we are building a country where silence is not an option, and violence is not our culture.”
Sengeh asserted the government’s recent reforms and investments in several crucial areas, including sexual and reproductive health, education, justice, and infrastructure.
He presented those initiatives as tangible evidence of the government’s dedication to improving the lives of its citizens. “Yes, I am a proud feminist. Yes, I am a He For She Champion. And yes, I am radically inclusive,” he affirmed, reinforcing his commitment to gender equality.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the Spotlight Initiative aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s broader human capital development and gender inclusion priorities.
He further noted that the initiative complements other significant projects, such as a recent $180 million water and sanitation project funded by the World Bank.
“We will deliver because we are already delivering,” Sengeh concluded, expressing confidence in the government’s ability to effect meaningful change.
Mr. Daniel Kettor, Executive Director of the Rainbo Initiative, spoke about the significance of the Spotlight Initiative in strengthening Sierra Leone’s fight against gender-based violence.
He announced plans to expand support services for survivors, launch mobile clinics to reach underserved areas, and provide training for workers involved in these efforts.
The EU-UN Spotlight Initiative is part of a global program aimed at supporting Sierra Leone’s ongoing reforms and promoting radical inclusion, ensuring that no woman or girl is left behind in the pursuit of safety and equality.
