Sierra Leone Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu has officially endorsed a comprehensive Baseline Survey Report developed by the Family Support Unit (FSU) in partnership with the Rainbow Initiative, to strengthen the Sierra Leone Police’s response to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).

The signing ceremony took place on 26 November 2025 at Police Headquarters in Kingtom, where the document was formally presented to the SLP leadership for approval.

The report notably follows a nationwide assessment conducted by the FSU with technical support from the Rainbow Initiative. According to the institutions, the survey examined operational gaps, structural challenges, and capacity limitations within the FSU, all aimed at improving service delivery in the fight against SGBV.

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Speaking at the event, Detective Superintendent Mohamed Mansaray, Head of the FSU, described the assessment as a joint monitoring and evaluation exercise. “We assessed our activities, facilities, and structures jointly with the Rainbow Initiative. The completion of that process is what we have now brought for the IGP’s signature,” Supt. Mansaray said.

Technical Adviser of the Rainbow Initiative, Mr. Anthony Sam, explained that the partnership is guided by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions. He said the purpose of the survey was to identify the key challenges affecting the FSU’s effectiveness. “The objective was to identify the gaps in service delivery and capacity so they could be addressed in the final report,” Mr. Sam stated.

He added that the Baseline Survey forms part of a broader support programme funded by the European Union through the Spotlight Initiative. As part of the assessment, 134 enumerators from various regions and SLP units were trained to conduct nationwide fieldwork. The collected data was analysed and later validated at a stakeholder workshop before being compiled into the final report.

Representing the IGP at the ceremony, Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Sahr Yomba Senesi praised the partnership between the FSU and the Rainbow Initiative, describing it as “a strong and productive collaboration.”
“Let me thank you on behalf of the IGP and the rank and file of the SLP for such a laudable initiative. It will help position the FSU on the right trajectory in addressing the gaps identified through the survey,” DIG Senesi remarked.

He said the endorsed report will serve as an important resource in enhancing the FSU’s response to sexual offences and strengthening its overall capacity. He expressed gratitude to the Rainbow Initiative and reaffirmed the SLP’s commitment to continued collaboration.

The ceremony concluded with the official signing of the Baseline Survey Report and a group photograph.