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The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, on Monday convened a high-level strategic meeting with representatives from Trocaire and key stakeholders to discuss policies, frameworks, and interventions aimed at strengthening women’s leadership, mentorship, and empowerment through the Network of Women Ministers and Parliamentarians (NEWMaP).
Presenting an overview of NEWMaP, the Coordinator of the Secretariat, Hannah Lahai Robinson, highlighted the network’s mandate to strengthen women’s rights and leadership roles through the implementation of its strategic plan launched in August 2025.
She emphasized the importance of integrating female parliamentarians, ministers, and councillors into the network to enhance collaboration and advocacy on gender-related issues.
Head of Programmes at Rainbo Initiative, Bob Lamin, outlined the organization’s ongoing efforts to address Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) across Sierra Leone. He disclosed that Rainbo Initiative has established operational one-stop centres in Bombali, Port Loko, and Kambia districts to provide comprehensive support services to survivors. He also highlighted the role of Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) and community engagement initiatives in promoting women’s rights and economic empowerment at the grassroots level.
Delivering keynote remarks, Dr. Isata Mahoi welcomed the delegation and underscored the importance of reviving NEWMaP to strengthen collaboration among female ministers, parliamentarians, and councillors.
“There was a need to revive the organization,” she said. “The vision is to create a platform where women in leadership can coordinate effectively and work collectively to strengthen representation and participation, particularly in decision-making positions.”
Dr. Mahoi commended Trocaire for its continued support toward women’s leadership development, capacity-building, and empowerment programmes, while calling for deeper collaboration to achieve sustainable progress.
She also highlighted persistent challenges faced by women in politics, including gender discrimination, marginalization, limited support systems, and societal barriers that hinder active participation in leadership.
According to the Minister, NEWMaP provides a vital platform for strengthening women’s voices and expanding their representation in governance and public affairs.
The meeting ended with a call for stronger partnerships, increased investment, and coordinated action to accelerate women’s empowerment and enhance participation in leadership and decision-making across Sierra Leone.
