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The IOM Sierra Leone, in partnership with the Ministry of Social Welfare and the Anti-Trafficking Task Force, held a key community awareness session on human trafficking at the Western Area Rural District Council on August 23, 2024.
The event, held at the WARD-C Hall in Waterloo, aimed to address and combat human trafficking, a pressing issue in the region.
Deputy Chairman of WARD-C, Robert Brown, opened the session with a personal reflection on his advocacy against human trafficking, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in eradicating modern slavery. He expressed gratitude to the IOM and its partners for focusing on raising public awareness, a critical step in the fight against trafficking.
Deputy Director of the Ministry of Social Welfare, Hawanatu Koloneh Koroma, outlined her ministry’s role in supporting vulnerable populations, including victims of human trafficking. She highlighted the ministry’s five-year strategic plan, which aims to improve service delivery and inclusivity for at-risk groups.
Director of Public Prevention and Education at the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force Secretariat, Albert Sheriff, noted that the session was part of the ongoing World Day Against Trafficking in Persons observances and the new National Action Plan Against Trafficking in Persons. He detailed the promotional campaign’s focus on raising public awareness and combating trafficking hotspots like Waterloo.
Sama Banya, Director of Protection, discussed the protection mechanisms and response protocols for trafficking cases, noting the vulnerability of women and children but also acknowledging the trafficking of men and boys. He stressed the importance of swift responses and collaboration with other institutions.
National Project Officer Mangeh Sesay emphasized the significance of the Anti-Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Act of 2022, which aims to tackle trafficking and support victims. Sesay called for increased vigilance and community action, especially in areas like Waterloo, which has become a focal point for trafficking activities.
Representatives from various sectors, including the Transnational Organized Crime Unit, Family Support Unit, Sierra Leone Police, military, and community organizations, shared their experiences and commitment to tackling trafficking. The session also featured video screenings illustrating different forms of human trafficking.
The community stakeholder awareness-raising session was supported by the Africa Regional Migration Project and funded by the US Bureau for Population Refugees and Migration. The event highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen community engagement and enhance the fight against human trafficking in Sierra Leone.
