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The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, officially launched the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Coalition Information Hub and a nationwide Mentorship Programme, organized by UN WOMEN Sierra Leone,
Speaking at the high-profile gathering, Dr. Mahoi described the twin initiatives as “transformative efforts” that symbolize a new chapter in the country’s pursuit of gender equality and sustainable peace. “These initiatives stand out as testimony to our collective efforts to advance the women, peace, and security agenda,” she declared.
The Minister reflected on the establishment and growth of the WPS CSO Coalition, celebrating its progress from formation to becoming a key player in peacebuilding policy and advocacy. She highlighted the coalition’s contributions to the development of the Third National Action Plan (SiLNAP III) and noted its impact in promoting inclusive governance.
Dr. Mahoi praised the strides made under the project, especially the training of 573 female aspirants in electoral processes—16 of whom are now Members of Parliament and 68 serving as councillors. “We are witnessing a paradigm shift,” she said. “Women, including young women and women with disabilities, are becoming more confident, assertive, and involved in decision-making processes.”
The mentorship programme, according to the Minister, is designed to deepen empowerment across civil society organizations (CSOs), while the information hub will serve as a vital resource for data, advocacy, and knowledge sharing.
Calling on donors and development partners, Dr. Mahoi emphasized the potential of the initiatives to amplify local leadership in peace and security. “These platforms present a strategic opportunity for development partners to support and scale women-led initiatives,” she stated.
In closing, Dr. Mahoi, on behalf of the government of President Julius Maada Bio, reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to addressing the needs of coalition members and building a society where gender equality is not an option, but a lived reality.
The launch brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from UN Women, World Vision, and the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, as well as coalition members, mentors, and mentees.
