The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs has announced a temporary one-week suspension of its free toll line, 116, dedicated to reporting cases of sexual gender-based violence.

The ministry said that the hotline, which has been operational without interruption for the past five years, will undergo a transition period starting Saturday and is set to resume normal operations on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.

According to the Ministry, this brief pause is necessary to enhance the service, with efforts focused on calibrating mechanisms to improve functionality and strengthen feedback channels for users. “We are committed to ensuring that survivors have increased access to reporting and support services,” the Ministry stated in a public notice released earlier Saturday. “This upgrade is part of our resolve to make the hotline more effective.”

The Ministry expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by the shutdown, acknowledging the critical role the 116 hotline plays in supporting survivors. As an interim measure, they encouraged the public is encouraged to use the alternative contact number, +232 76 602 658, to report cases or seek assistance until the toll-free line is restored next week.

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The 116 hotline has been a cornerstone of the Ministry’s efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence, providing a vital lifeline for those in need. Officials assured the public that the service will return stronger and more responsive following the upgrades.

They promised to keep the public informed of any further developments regarding the hotline’s maintenance and operations. For now, all eyes are on April 8, when the enhanced 116 toll line is expected to go back online, continuing its mission to support survivors across the region.