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The Honourable Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Madam Isata Mahoi, alongside the National Focal Point for Ending Violence Against Children, represented Sierra Leone at the Global Meeting of the Pathfinding Global Alliance on Ending Violence Against Children, held at the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) in Turin, Italy, from 4-5 June 2026.
The high-level meeting convened ministers, policymakers, United Nations agencies, development partners, and child protection experts from around the world to review progress and strengthen collective action towards eliminating violence against children.
Addressing the global gathering, Minister Mahoi reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding children from all forms of violence, abuse, exploitation, and neglect.
“The protection of children is not only a policy priority but a national responsibility. Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment where their rights are respected, and their potential can flourish,” she stated.
The Minister highlighted key efforts by the Government of Sierra Leone, including strengthening child protection systems, tackling gender-based violence, promoting child participation in decision-making processes, expanding social welfare services, and enhancing collaboration among government institutions, civil society organisations, and development partners.
She emphasised that ending violence against children requires sustained investment and unified action.
“No single institution can end violence against children alone. Success depends on strong partnerships, adequate resources, community engagement, and a shared commitment to putting children at the centre of national development,” she added.
During the meeting, Sierra Leone actively contributed to discussions on integrated child protection services, child-friendly justice systems, alternative care, violence prevention, social protection, financing for child protection, and accountability mechanisms.
The engagement provided an opportunity for Sierra Leone to showcase its achievements, learn from successful interventions in other countries, and strengthen partnerships to support ongoing efforts to improve child welfare nationwide.
As a member of the Pathfinding Global Alliance, Sierra Leone renewed its commitment to accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the target of ending all forms of violence against children by 2030.
The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs reiterated its resolve to build a safer, more inclusive, and protective society where every child can thrive.
