President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone officially launched the resuscitated Network of Women Ministers and Parliamentarians (NeWMaP) on 21th November, 2023, aiming to strengthen alliances among female government-appointed Ministers and elected Parliamentarians.

The initiative seeks to enhance the representation of women and foster their full and equal participation in political and parliamentary leadership.

In his address at the launch, President Bio expressed, “The relaunch of NeWMaP is in furtherance of my Government’s commitment to fostering gender equality, empowering women, and ensuring their active participation in shaping the future of Sierra Leone.” The President emphasized the crucial role that NeWMaP will play in advancing gender equality within the country.

During the event, President Bio charged the leadership and members of NeWMaP to utilize the platform to amplify the voices of women in decision-making processes. He urged them to address gender-specific challenges and collaborate on legislative reforms that promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. The President outlined the multifaceted goals of NeWMaP, emphasizing its potential impact on shaping a more inclusive and representative political landscape.

President Bio took the opportunity to reiterate his Government’s unwavering commitment to advancing gender issues throughout Sierra Leone. He pledged full support as the Principal He-For-She Champion in the Republic, showcasing his dedication to the success of NeWMaP. The President’s commitment reflects a broader national strategy to address gender disparities and empower women across various sectors.

The resuscitation of NeWMaP aligns with global efforts to promote women’s involvement in political leadership and decision-making. Sierra Leone, through this initiative, aims to create a supportive network for women in positions of power, fostering collaboration and collective action towards achieving gender equality objectives.

As NeWMaP begins its renewed journey, the focus will be on fostering collaboration, advocating for gender-sensitive policies, and driving positive change in the representation of women in Sierra Leone’s political landscape. The President’s endorsement and commitment to the initiative signal a promising step towards a more inclusive and gender-equal future for the nation.