Sierra Leone has called for stronger international cooperation to improve child protection systems, as the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs held high-level discussions with global partners during meetings in New York.
The Minister, Isata Mahoi, met with the United Nations Special Representative on Violence against Children, Najat Maalla M’jid, on the sidelines of the Commission on the Status of Women summit, where both sides discussed ways to strengthen laws, institutions and partnerships to protect children.
During the meeting, the UN representative praised Sierra Leone for recent legal reforms, including the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024 and the Child Rights Act 2025, which are aimed at improving the safety and welfare of children. She said continued cooperation between countries, religious leaders and community groups is important in addressing child protection challenges around the world.
Minister Mahoi said the government is working to make sure the new child protection laws are fully implemented. She explained that regulations for the Child Rights Act are being prepared, while a new Alternative Care Policy is expected to guide how vulnerable children are supported. She also spoke about the rollout of the Gender-Based Violence Information Management System, which will help authorities collect better data and improve services for victims.
The minister further highlighted national programmes such as the “300 Days of Activism” campaign to improve health care for women and children, and ongoing discussions to review the Sexual Offences law. She said the government is also planning new surveys and digital systems to help decision-makers respond faster to child protection issues.
Both sides discussed concerns about children living on the streets, the need for stronger care systems and better standards for residential homes. They also explored the possibility of future technical support from the United Nations and a proposed country visit to Sierra Leone to review progress.
Officials say the talks show Sierra Leone’s effort to work with global partners to ensure every child in the country is safe, protected and given the chance to succeed.
