HRCSL Targets Stigma and Discrimination Against Key Populations Through New Training
Aaron Parker The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL), through its Directorate of Education, Communication and Training, has concluded a three-day training workshop aimed at strengthening the capacity of civil society and human rights organisations to address stigma and discrimination against key populations.
Held from October 12 to 14, 2026, at the National AIDS Secretariat (NAS) conference hall at Bellia Park, Dwarzark, Freetown, the workshop was supported by the Global Fund through World Vision International and NAS. It brought together 40 participants, including 15 women and 25 men.
Led by HRCSL Deputy Director of Education, Communication and Training, Mrs Millicent Kargbo, the training covered HIV epidemiology, stigma indices, human rights and inclusion, public leadership, vulnerable populations in Sierra Leone, and advocacy for social justice.
Director-General of NAS, Abdul Rahman Sesay, welcomed the collaboration with HRCSL to improve access to services for vulnerable groups, particularly people living with HIV. He commended the Commission’s work on HIV-related human rights issues and urged participants to apply the knowledge gained to protect the rights and wellbeing of key populations.
Participants said the training had improved their understanding of HIV-related human rights concerns and the challenges faced by key populations. They pledged to use the knowledge acquired to promote inclusive advocacy and support equal access to healthcare services.
Through the initiative, HRCSL and its partners seek to strengthen civil society organisations’ capacity to promote equality, inclusion and non-discrimination in healthcare access and service delivery.