The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) has formally bid farewell to its Director of Children’s Affairs, Mrs. Joyce Baby Kamara, in recognition of her 29 years of dedicated and professional service to the Ministry and to the children of Sierra Leone.

The farewell ceremony, held at the Ministry, brought together senior government officials, colleagues, and staff to acknowledge Mrs. Kamara’s long-standing commitment to child protection and welfare.

Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs congratulated Mrs. Kamara on her years of service, describing her career as one marked by commitment, professionalism, and integrity.

The Minister commended her strong advocacy for gender equality and women’s empowerment, with particular emphasis on child protection, and noted that her contributions had helped shape key interventions for children across the country. The Minister also assured Mrs. Kamara that the Ministry would continue to seek her advice and guidance even after her retirement.

The Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs also paid tribute to Mrs. Kamara, thanking her for what he described as selfless and tireless service to the Ministry and to children nationwide. He recalled her personal care and concern for his own children and said the Ministry would miss her passion, professionalism, and lifelong dedication to child welfare.

Also speaking, the Chief Director of MoGCA, Mr. Charles Vandi, reflected on his many years of working closely with Mrs. Kamara. He described her as a dependable and principled colleague who consistently stood for what was right and remained committed to the protection and wellbeing of children. Mr. Vandi said her departure would be deeply felt within the Ministry and by the children of Sierra Leone.

In her response, Mrs. Joyce Baby Kamara expressed gratitude to the Ministry’s leadership and staff for their support throughout her 29-year career. She said she was thankful for the opportunity to serve the children of Sierra Leone and noted that, although she is leaving public office, she remains committed to contributing to child welfare in her own way.

Mrs. Kamara joined the Ministry nearly three decades ago and rose through the ranks to become Director of Children’s Affairs, a role in which she played a key part in advancing child protection policies and programs.

The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs said Mrs. Kamara’s service and dedication would remain a lasting legacy, noting that her impact on the lives of children across Sierra Leone will continue to be remembered and appreciated.