In a statement delivered at a conference today, Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to protect and promote gender equality and empower women.

Speaking at an event marking the commencement of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Dr. Jalloh highlighted the progress made in addressing GBV, but cautioned that there are still challenges to overcome.

He acknowledged the significant strides made over the years in protecting women and girls, but urged continued vigilance to ensure that hard-won gains are not lost. “We must be diligent in navigating the headwinds that threaten to erode the progress we’ve made,” Dr. Jalloh stated.

The Vice President also called for stronger collaboration among activists, the government, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to foster community ownership of strategies aimed at combating GBV. Drawing on his personal experiences, he emphasized the effectiveness of community-led initiatives in delivering sustainable solutions for the prevention of GBV and providing support for its victims.

Dr. Jalloh expressed his admiration for the organizations and activists who are playing a pivotal role in empowering women and girls, acknowledging the critical partnerships with the government in driving change. He praised the collective effort to give women and girls a voice and agency in shaping their futures.

The Vice President’s remarks came as part of Sierra Leone’s national commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism, a global campaign aimed at raising awareness and advocating for action to prevent gender-based violence. The initiative, which runs from November 25 to December 10, aims to engage various sectors of society in creating a world free from violence for women and girls.