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The Ministry of Social Welfare has held a high-level meeting aimed at exploring collaboration opportunities to improve child welfare systems in Sierra Leone.
The engagement brought together national officials and representatives of Lo Scciattolo-ETS, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening policies and practical interventions that protect children’s rights and support their development into adulthood.
Speaking during the discussions, Edward Emmanuel stressed the importance of reinforcing existing legal and institutional frameworks, particularly the Child Rights Act. He emphasised that sustainable development initiatives remain central to improving child protection outcomes, noting that the collaboration aligns with global development priorities that emphasise strong partnerships for vulnerable groups.
He further expressed interest in expanding cooperation around other Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that could further enhance child welfare.
Francesco Carnevali of Lo Scciattolo-ETS outlined the organisation’s focus on strengthening international cooperation and knowledge-sharing systems. He explained that their work is geared toward addressing challenges faced by vulnerable children across different regions through the development of supportive care structures, including institutional care where necessary. He added that the long-term goal is to ensure that children are eventually placed in safe and nurturing family environments capable of providing stability and proper care.
On her part, the Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, highlighted the broad mandate of her ministry, which includes the protection of vulnerable groups such as women, children, youth, and persons with disabilities. She explained that the ministry delivers key services such as family mediation, mental health support, and assistance for individuals affected by drug abuse, trafficking, and migration-related challenges.
The Minister also disclosed plans to establish a Social Work Regulatory Council aimed at improving professional standards and service delivery within the sector.
Karminty further noted ongoing interventions to support vulnerable children through care homes and protection services. She also referenced upcoming activities to commemorate International Family Day in May, which will focus on critical social issues, including child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and violence, through public engagement and awareness campaigns.
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to strengthening partnerships between Sierra Leonean authorities and Italian institutions, with the shared goal of improving child welfare systems and outcomes across the country.
