The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), through the European Union-funded Spotlight Initiative implemented in partnership with the United Nations, has presented an assessment report on Family Support Unit (FSU) service provision and capacity gaps to the Inspector General of Police, Mr William Fayia Sellu.

The report presentation highlights UNDP’s sustained efforts to strengthen access to justice for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Sierra Leone.

Speaking during the presentation, UNDP Gender Analyst, Madam Kadiatu Bachalle Taylor, stated that the Spotlight Initiative is supporting targeted interventions in Kailahun, Falaba, and Moyamba Districts. She noted that the programme is being implemented in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), the Judiciary, and the Ministry of Justice to enhance institutional capacity and improve service delivery for survivors.

Madam Taylor commended Family Support Unit officers for their commitment, especially those working in hard-to-reach communities with limited resources. She explained that the assessment, conducted across nine FSU jurisdictions, identified critical gaps in staffing, logistics, and operations that continue to hinder effective service delivery.

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As part of ongoing support, she disclosed that UNDP has procured 14 motorcycles, along with laptops, printers, and other ICT equipment, to strengthen the mobility and operational efficiency of FSU personnel.

She further revealed that a review of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is underway to address emerging trends in gender-based violence, including technology-facilitated offences and crimes occurring in border communities.

In his response, the Inspector General of Police, Mr William Fayia Sellu, expressed appreciation to UNDP for its continued partnership and support to the Sierra Leone Police. He described the Family Support Unit as a critical arm of the Force in addressing SGBV cases.

The IGP assured the UNDP delegation that Police Management would carefully review the report’s recommendations and take the necessary steps to support their implementation. He also pledged to engage the UNDP Resident Representative to fast-track the proposed interventions.

Mr. Sellu noted that increased public confidence in the Family Support Unit has led to a rise in reported SGBV cases, emphasizing the need to sustain and build on these gains through further strengthening of the Unit.

The engagement concluded with the formal presentation of the assessment report, reaffirming the strong collaboration between UNDP and the Sierra Leone Police under the Spotlight Initiative in advancing justice and protection for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.