Group photoThe conclusion of a crucial three-day workshop in Freetown, Sierra Leone, aimed at improving civil society participation in Security Sector Reform and Governance (SSRG). This workshop, which will take place from July 14–16, 2025, brings together government officials, development partners, technical experts, and representatives of various civil society organisations (CSOs) to promote cooperation and improve oversight of the security sector.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the European Union Delegation, Germany, the ECOWAS Resident Representative, and UNDP Sierra Leone gave remarks to officially open the workshop. Together, these parties seek to strengthen civil society’s contribution to the advancement of efficient governance and accountability in the security industry.
UNDP Resident Representative Fredrick Ampiah reaffirmed the agency’s steadfast dedication to assisting civil society in SSRG. He declared, “The UNDP remains fully committed to encouraging civil society involvement in Security Sector Reform and Governance.” We stand with you as Sierra Leone advances towards a security sector that protects, engages, and empowers all citizens. This statement highlights the importance of an inclusive security framework that prioritises the needs and rights of all citizens.
Mabulara Tsuene, Economic, Advisor of UNDPThis workshop is part of ongoing efforts to help Sierra Leone strengthen democracy and transform its security sector. Civil society plays a crucial role in advancing human rights, monitoring reforms, and ensuring accountability within the security apparatus. The workshop’s main topics will be best practices in the governance of the security sector, ways to improve the relationship between state institutions and civil society, and viewpoints from other West African nations.
The government’s dedication to fostering an atmosphere that encourages civil society involvement was reaffirmed by Hon. Morie Lengor, Minister of Internal Affairs. He remarked, “As the Ministry of Internal Affairs, we are committed to creating an environment where civil society can thrive and play an active role in security sector governance. The journey may be challenging, but through dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared vision for a safer Sierra Leone, we can overcome them together.” This sentiment demonstrates how the government and civil society are increasingly realising how important it is to work together to address security issues.
Significant results from the workshop are anticipated, such as the approval of a roadmap for civil society participation in SSRG and the creation of a national CSO coordination platform. These initiatives aim to position civil society as a vital actor in promoting democratic oversight and enhancing the delivery of security services in Sierra Leone.
This event has been convened with joint support from UNDP Sierra Leone and the EU Support to ECOWAS in Peace, Security, and Governance (EPSG) Project. The EPSG initiative aims to fortify ECOWAS’s capacity in peacebuilding, security, and governance across West Africa. The project is co-funded by the EU, commissioned by Germany, and implemented in collaboration with GIZ, EF, and FIAP, alongside ECOWAS.
During the opening ceremony, a representative from the German Embassy reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone in its security sector reform efforts. H.E. Jens Kraus-Massé, the German Ambassador to Sierra Leone, stated, “The German Government reaffirms its commitment to supporting Sierra Leone in its efforts to strengthen security sector reform, enhance border management, and build resilience against emerging security threats.” This commitment illustrates the international community’s support for Sierra Leone’s journey toward a more secure and stable environment.
H.E. Jacek Jankowski, the EU Head of Delegation to Sierra Leone, also expressed continued support, saying, “Be assured that the EU will remain at your side in accompanying your endeavour to reduce crime in your country and the West African subregion.” This collaborative spirit is essential for addressing the complex security challenges faced by the region.
UNDP has been actively involved in supporting security sector reform in Sierra Leone since the end of the civil war in 2002. The organization has contributed to various initiatives, including the transformation of the Sierra Leone Police into a Police Service, justice sector reforms, and strengthening the rule of law. The current workshop builds on these efforts and emphasizes the critical role of civil society in governance and security.
Ambassador John Azumah, ECOWAS Resident Representative to Sierra Leone, reaffirmed his organization’s support, stating, “ECOWAS stands firmly with Sierra Leone in its efforts to reform and strengthen its security architecture in a way that enhances human security, safeguards democratic institutions, and responds to the needs of all citizens.”
This workshop marks a significant step in Sierra Leone’s ongoing journey towards a more inclusive and accountable security sector, with civil society organizations at the forefront of this transformative process.
