The Commonwealth Business Women Africa (CBW Africa) Sierra Leone Chapter officially launched its operations on Friday, 13th December 2024, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Freetown.
During the launch, the organization certified various individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions to advancing the rights of women and girls, combating gender-based violence, supporting female farmers and entrepreneurs, promoting education, and campaigning against drug abuse, particularly the rise of kush, which has significantly impacted the youth.
The recognition highlighted individuals and groups that have actively worked over the years to empower women and girls across Sierra Leone, Africa, and globally. The certified awardees include:
- Madam Ngozi Oyewole, Founder and President of CBW
- Hon. Joseph Lamin, the Liberian Ambassador
- Ambassador Michael and Mrs. Annerieke Owen
- Madam Cindy Nofziga
- Ambassador Bryan Hunt, United States Ambassador to Sierra Leone
- The German Ambassador
- Team Purposeful
- Dr. Bintu Mansaray, Director and Co-founder of IGCHR
- Community of Practice (COP), Members and Partners
- Dr. Samuel Saidu, Deputy Director and Co-founder of IGCHR, Sierra Leone
In her address on the significance of the awards, Madam Ann Marie King, the Country Director of CBW Africa, emphasized her organization’s commitment to empowering women through capacity building, education, agriculture, and livelihood support.
“These individuals and organizations that received certificates are not only instrumental and leading advocates for women’s emancipation but have also been key supporters of our programs. We are therefore presenting these certificates to recognize their impact, inspire further action, and express our gratitude for their contributions toward empowering women,” said Madam King.
Madam King, a prominent human rights activist, has played a pivotal role in transforming the lives of vulnerable women in rural and underserved communities across Sierra Leone. Known for her developmental projects, she has established schools and learning centers to empower girls and women, particularly in the Lumley community and parts of the provinces.
As a leading campaigner against female genital mutilation (FGM), Madam King has received several awards for her unwavering advocacy for women’s rights. She currently runs a vocational and training center in Freetown, equipping women with skills to improve their livelihoods.
Award recipients expressed gratitude to Madam King and CBW Africa for recognizing their efforts and pledged their continued support for women and girls within their respective communities.