The first lady of Sierra Leone, Dr Fatima Maada Bio, made history on February 22, 2024, when she formally unveiled the National Commission for Children’s Strategic Plan 2024–2028, demonstrating her commitment to the welfare of the country’s children. The launch event, which took place at Aberdeen, Freetown’s esteemed Sierra Palms Hotel, signalled the start of an extensive roadmap designed to improve children’s prospects and well-being over the following five years.
In her speech, Dr Fatima Maada Bio emphasised the critical importance of investing in the next generation, pointing out that they are not only Sierra Leone’s future but also its present. The strategic plan sets high standards to build a better and more prosperous future for all children in the nation by emphasising vital areas including healthcare, education, child protection, and child rights advocacy.
Since its founding in 2007, Sierra Leone’s National Commission for Children (NCC) has taken the lead in promoting and defending the rights of children. The recently released strategic plan is ready to guide the Commission towards accomplishing its goals and improving the lives of Sierra Leone’s youth after thorough consultations with a range of stakeholders.
A wide range of people, including government officials, ambassadors from foreign organisations, members of civil society organisations, and ardent supporters of children’s rights, attended the launch event. Their attendance served as a reminder of their shared dedication to making sure that the country’s youngest residents have access to the tools and opportunities they need to prosper and advance the country.
With the release of the National Commission for Children’s Strategic Plan 2024–2028, Sierra Leone is embarking on a monumental journey to prioritise the future and well-being of children. This marks the beginning of a new phase in the nation’s commitment to building a more prosperous and inclusive society for all.
