Despite Gains In Gender Equality… Violence Remains A Major Concern

By JKM

The Government of Sierra Leone has recorded notable gains in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, according to the Presidential Adviser on Gender Affairs, Isatu Jabbie Kabbah.

Speaking at the weekly press briefing hosted by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education at the Miatta Conference Center on Tuesday, March 17, Madam Jabbie Kabbah highlighted key milestones achieved in advancing women’s participation in governance.

She disclosed that women’s representation in Parliament has significantly improved, with approximately 41 female legislators currently serving, alongside an increasing number of women occupying cabinet and deputy ministerial positions. She further noted that women are steadily gaining ground in critical national institutions, including the aviation sector and other strategic areas.

According to her, these strides are largely driven by expanded access to education for girls and sustained policy interventions aimed at fostering inclusive governance. She pointed to the government’s adoption of a 30 percent quota for women’s representation as a clear demonstration of its commitment to gender balance in leadership and decision-making.

Madam Jabbie Kabbah also referenced ongoing national efforts to strengthen gender equality, including high-level commitments to tackling sexual and gender-based violence and safeguarding the rights of women and girls across the country.

Despite these achievements, she raised serious concerns about the continued prevalence of gender-based violence, describing it as a critical issue requiring urgent and collective action. She cited alarming cases involving young victims and called on communities, institutions, and individuals to intensify efforts to combat abuse.

“Protecting women and children is a shared responsibility,” she emphasized, urging families, educators, and community leaders to speak out against violence and support survivors. She also underscored the need for increased public awareness and stronger collaboration with law enforcement to ensure perpetrators are held accountable.

She reaffirmed the government’s resolve to build a safer and more inclusive society where women and girls are fully empowered to contribute to national development.