In a groundbreaking event aimed at advancing children’s rights, the Child Rights Coalition – Sierra Leone (CRC-SL) and the Children’s Forum Network (CFN) officially launched the Children’s Alternative Report to the Combined Sixth and Seventh Periodic Report of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
The ceremony, held at Sierra Palms Resort in Freetown, brought together key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, UNICEF, development partners, civil society organizations, and children from across the country.
The report, prepared after extensive consultations in various districts nationwide, highlights critical issues affecting children in Sierra Leone. It emphasizes gaps in child welfare and makes recommendations to address challenges such as harmful practices, child marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM), barriers to education, and inequalities in access to quality healthcare.
Morrison Bockarie, Vice President of CFN, described the report as a reflection of children’s voices, saying, “Our Rights, Our Say.” He acknowledged the efforts of the government while calling for urgent attention to gaps that continue to affect children nationwide.
Chairperson of CRC-SL, Mrs. Boi Jenneh Jalloh, applauded the children for their dedication to raising awareness about their rights. She emphasized Sierra Leone’s obligation to adhere to the UNCRC and noted the ongoing periodic review process.
UNICEF’s Country Representative, Rudolf Schwenk, celebrated the launch as a significant milestone. He reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to addressing the challenges highlighted in the report, stating, “Together, we can transform Sierra Leone into a place where every child is respected and protected.”
Honorable Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, formally accepted the report on behalf of the government. She emphasized the ministry’s dedication to implementing the recommendations in the report, highlighting ongoing efforts such as the establishment of sexual offences courts and recent legislative reviews of the Child Rights Bill.
Dr. Mahoi also urged children to raise awareness about the laws protecting them and encouraged the public to utilize the toll-free child protection hotline (116) for reporting abuse.
“Our government is fully committed to protecting the rights of children. They remain at the center of our hearts and our nation’s development,” she stated.
The alternative report launch underscores the critical role of collaboration between children, government, and development partners. The event concluded with a powerful declaration led by the Public Relations Officer, Fatmata Ibrahim, officially launching the Children’s Alternative Report.
Stakeholders present, including representatives from the Ministry of Social Welfare, Human Rights Commission, and civil society organizations, pledged their continued support to advancing the rights and welfare of children in Sierra Leone.
This initiative serves as a testament to the importance of amplifying children’s voices and creating a future where their rights are upheld, protected, and respected.
