By Sallieu S. Kanu
February 10, 2026: The Government of Sierra Leone has taken a major step in its fight against gender-based violence (GBV) with the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA), the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
The agreement formalizes a strategic partnership to strengthen national responses to GBV within social protection programs, ensuring grievance systems are transparent, survivor‑centered, and accountable.
The MoU establishes internal referral pathways, survivor feedback mechanisms, and coordinated information sharing.
MoGCA will lead national coordination; NaCSA will provide programmatic support; ACC will ensure accountability and protect public resources.
Provisions include regular staff training, quarterly joint reviews, and annual evaluations to sustain improvements. Transparency and financial management clauses reinforce ethical governance and trust in grievance systems.
Dr. Isata Mahoi, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, said:
“This partnership strengthens dignity, rights, and justice, ensuring no survivor is left unheard as we work toward a safer, more equitable Sierra Leone.”
Amb. Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina, Commissioner of NaCSA, said: “This agreement restores dignity by empowering survivors economically and reinforcing trust in grievance systems.”
Mr. Augustine Foday Ngobie, Deputy Commissioner of ACC, said: “The ACC remains resolute in protecting public resources and ensuring accountability. This agreement strengthens survivor support and builds trust across institutions.”
UNICEF Country Representative commended the Government’s leadership, describing the MoU as a critical step toward protecting women and children from violence, exploitation, and abuse.
The signing of this MoU represents a milestone in Sierra Leone’s GBV response, uniting key institutions under a shared framework that prioritizes survivors’ dignity, rights, and wellbeing. By embedding accountability and transparency into grievance redress mechanisms, the Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ethical governance and coordinated service delivery.