Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs hosted a Liberian delegation led by Deputy Minister of Gender and Social Protection, Mrs. Garmai S. Tokpah, to strengthen child welfare collaboration.

The meeting included key figures such as UNICEF representatives, the National Children’s Forum Network Sierra Leone President, and child protection specialists.

Deputy Minister Bindi Hindowa emphasized Sierra Leone’s commitment to child protection through the upcoming “Child Rights Act,” awaiting parliamentary approval.

Mrs. Tokpah addressed Liberia’s challenges, noting around 3,500 street children and detailing the “District Children Project,” which aims to rescue and rehabilitate these children with the help of Save the Children and UNICEF.

UNICEF representatives showed interest in Sierra Leone’s practices and advocated for mutual learning. Mrs. Addie Valcarcel, Director of the National Commission for Children’s Advocacy and Outreach Sierra Leone, highlighted the commission’s role in upholding children’s rights, including education and protection from abuse.

The session ended with Mrs. Tokpah inviting future visits and continued collaboration, reinforcing the shared commitment to improving child welfare between Sierra Leone and Liberia.