The Executive Director of Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI), Abdul M. Fatoma an esteemed figure in the realm of civil society has been elected to lead the newly established organisation dedicated to Security Sector Reform and Governance (SSRG).

This momentous initiative was officially launched on Wednesday, 16th July 2025, following an enlightening three-day workshop organised by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with generous support from the European Union (EU), GIZ, and other key donors.

Fatoma was unanimously elected to head the newly formed SSRG platform following a transformative three-day workshop organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with backing from the European Union (EU), GIZ, and other key partners.

The formation of SSRG marks a significant stride toward enhancing transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in the governance of national security institutions. The platform will serve as a central coordination mechanism for civil society organizations (CSOs) working in the fields of peacebuilding, good governance, and security sector reform.

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In his acceptance remarks, Fatoma expressed deep appreciation for the confidence reposed in him by his colleagues across civil society. “I am profoundly honoured to lead such a committed and passionate coalition of individuals and institutions. Together, we will drive collective efforts to ensure that our security sector becomes more people-centered, transparent, and accountable,” he said.

Fatoma underscored the crucial role that CSOs play in strengthening democratic oversight, noting that “public engagement in security governance is not just desirable—it is essential.” He emphasized that civil society participation allows for greater scrutiny of policies, promotion of legal compliance, and protection of human rights.

The SSRG platform is expected to work closely with state institutions, security agencies, and international development partners to monitor the performance of the security sector, ensuring that reforms reflect the needs and interests of the broader public especially marginalised communities. It also seeks to elevate the voices of ordinary citizens and provide a channel through which their concerns can influence policy decisions.

CSOs will serve not only as watchdogs but also as mediators and advocates, offering diverse perspectives and constructive solutions to long-standing security and governance challenges.

The SSRG’s launch is being hailed as a timely response to the increasing demand for accountability and inclusivity within Sierra Leone’s democratic space. With Fatoma at the helm, stakeholders remain optimistic about the platform’s ability to bridge the gap between citizens and security institutions and to contribute meaningfully to national stability and development.