Sierra Leone, Namibia Strengthen Ties on Gender-Based Violence Data Management
Alusine Ahmed Kargbo The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) has hosted a high-level delegation from Namibia for a South-South learning exchange aimed at strengthening the use of the Gender-Based Violence Information Management System Plus (GBVIMS+).
The engagement provides an opportunity for Namibia to learn from Sierra Leone’s experience in implementing the system and improving the management of information on gender-based violence.
Speaking on behalf of the visiting delegation, its head commended Sierra Leone for its efforts to promote gender equality, strengthen child protection and improve responses to gender-based violence. She said the visit would help the delegation understand the country’s institutional practices and progress in using GBVIMS+.
The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs highlighted the importance of cooperation between African countries in strengthening national systems for preventing and responding to gender-based violence.
She explained that GBVIMS+ supports better information management, coordination among service providers, case referrals and evidence-based decision-making. These functions help institutions improve the quality of services provided to survivors.
The Minister also stressed that the system must protect the privacy and safety of survivors. She noted that information collected should support better policies and interventions while preserving the dignity and confidentiality of those affected.
She acknowledged the contributions of the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Social Welfare, United Nations agencies, civil society organisations and development partners in supporting the piloting and implementation of GBVIMS+.
The Rainbo Initiative and the Commit and Act Foundation were among the organisations recognised for their contributions to the process.
The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening partnerships, promoting accountability and ensuring that responses to gender-based violence remain centred on survivors’ needs.
She expressed confidence that the exchange would strengthen relations between Sierra Leone and Namibia and provide useful lessons for improving prevention and response systems across Africa.
The visit highlights the importance of African countries sharing knowledge and practical experiences to improve protection for women, girls, children and other vulnerable groups.
The Ministry said it would continue working with partners to advance gender equality, strengthen child protection and improve services for survivors of gender-based violence.