In a significant step towards safeguarding the future of its youth, UNICEF and the Government of Sierra Leone have officially launched the Situation Analysis on Children and Adolescents (SitAn).
This comprehensive report, developed through a collaboration between the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MOPED) and UNICEF, sheds light on the pressing challenges and conditions affecting nearly 4 million children and adolescents in the country. The SitAn serves as an essential resource, providing a thorough examination of the current state of children and adolescents in Sierra Leone. With a median age of just 19 years, the nation boasts one of the youngest populations in the world, making the insights from this report all the more vital.
The findings highlight a range of alarming statistics that illustrate the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve the well-being of the country’s youth. Among the most concerning revelations is the prevalence of child poverty, with nearly 70% of children living in impoverished conditions. This stark reality is compounded by the fact that less than 10% of children in Sierra Leone benefit from any form of social protection.
The report also draws attention to the tragic reality that 1 in every 10 infants does not survive past their fifth birthday, underscoring the critical health challenges faced by young children in the country. Another pressing issue highlighted in the SitAn is the lack of birth registration, with 70% of children under the age of five lacking a birth certificate. This lack of documentation not only hinders access to essential services but also leaves many children vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
Education, a fundamental right for every child, is also a significant concern, with nearly 20% of children out of school and those who are enrolled facing challenges related to the quality of education provided. The report further reveals the alarming prevalence of violence against children, with 90% of young people experiencing some form of violent discipline. Additionally, the issue of early marriage is highlighted, with 30% of girls marrying before they reach the age of 18, and nearly 20% of girls aged 15-19 experiencing pregnancy.
These statistics point to a cycle of vulnerability that can have long-lasting effects on the lives of young girls and their communities. Gilles Fagninou, UNICEF Regional Director for West and Central Africa, emphasized the importance of recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by Sierra Leone’s youth. “Sierra Leone, like many other African nations, is witnessing a significant increase in its child and youth population. The government and its partners must acknowledge this transition and take proactive steps to tackle the pressing challenges outlined in this report,” he stated. Rudolf Schwenk, UNICEF Representative in Sierra Leone, echoed this sentiment, stating that the SitAn provides compelling evidence to guide transformative policies and investments aimed at alleviating the vulnerabilities experienced by children and adolescents.
“Together with our partners, we will continue to support the Government of Sierra Leone in addressing the deprivations affecting children and young people to improve their lives,” he affirmed. The
Honourable Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Kenyeh Barlay, highlighted the collaborative nature of the SitAn report, noting that it represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to prioritize the welfare of the nation’s youth. “The insights and conclusions articulated in the report will serve as a guiding factor in shaping more efficient policies and interventions aimed at enhancing the lives of our children and adolescents across Sierra Leone,” she remarked.
In addition to the comprehensive SitAn, an adolescent-friendly version has been produced to focus specifically on the unique vulnerabilities faced by young people transitioning from childhood to adulthood. This version addresses critical issues such as teenage pregnancy, child marriage, gender-based violence, education, access to information, and the impacts of climate change. The launch event saw a group of young advocates passionately urging all stakeholders to take action based on the report’s recommendations.
The Situation Analysis on Children and Adolescents in Sierra Leone is not just a report; it is a call to action. It serves as a crucial foundation for developing effective policies and interventions that can uplift the lives of millions of children and adolescents, ensuring that they have the opportunity to thrive and contribute positively to their communities. As Sierra Leone moves forward, the commitment to addressing these challenges will be essential in shaping a brighter future for its youngest citizens.
