Chief Minister Leads High-Level Forum to Accelerate Efforts Against SGBV and Child Abuse

Dr David Moinina Sengeh, Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, convened a high-level strategic forum on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, to advance national efforts to prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and strengthen child protection. Dr Sengeh thanked government agencies, civil society, and development partners for their contributions to President Julius Maada Bio’s vision of a fairer, more inclusive society in his opening remarks, and he urged unified action to overcome obstacles to progress.
Dr Sengeh acknowledged that measurable progress had been made, but warned that entrenched harmful practices and ongoing challenges continue to undermine those gains. He emphasised that social protection is a fundamental right, not a luxury, and that it must be available to all to build communities free of violence, fear, and discrimination.
Dr. Isata Mahoi, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, reviewed the Ministry’s recent accomplishments, which included the implementation of the National Male Involvement Strategy, the establishment of One Stop Centres to provide survivors with coordinated services, and the passage of landmark legislation such as the Gender Equality, Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act. Dr Mahoi also openly acknowledged remaining gaps and outlined the Ministry’s priorities for 2026: legislative reviews, expanded victim-centred services, and stronger accountability mechanisms to ensure laws translate into protection on the ground.
Madam Isatu Jabbie Kabbah, Presidential Adviser on Gender, stated that the forum’s goal is to forge a unified front among government, civil society, and international partners to strengthen Sierra Leone’s response to SGBV. The meeting was primarily concerned with preparing for the upcoming 1,000-Man Conference, which aims to engage men and boys as active allies in the fight against gender-based violence.
The forum was framed as a pivotal step within the government’s “Big Five” game-changer initiatives, to maintain momentum toward eradicating SGBV and creating safer, more equitable communities for all Sierra Leoneans. Participants agreed to increase collaboration, policy implementation, and community engagement as the country moves on to the next phase of its prevention and response efforts.