By Communications Unit | MoGCA
June 5, 2026 – Sierra Leone’s Honourable Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to protecting children from violence, abuse, exploitation, and neglect during the Global Meeting of the Pathfinding Global Alliance on Ending Violence Against Children, held at the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) in Turin, Italy.
Accompanied by the National Focal Point for Ending Violence Against Children, the Minister joined ministers, policymakers, UN agencies, development partners, and child protection experts from around the world to assess progress and strengthen collective action.
“The protection of children is not only a policy priority but a national responsibility. Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment where their rights are respected and their potential can flourish,” the Minister told the gathering.
She highlighted Sierra Leone’s efforts to strengthen child protection systems, tackle gender-based violence, expand social welfare services, promote child participation in decision-making, and enhance collaboration among government institutions, civil society, and development partners.
The Minister stressed that ending violence against children requires strong partnerships and sustained investment:
“No single institution can end violence against children alone. Success depends on strong partnerships, adequate resources, community engagement, and a shared commitment to putting children at the centre of national development.”
Throughout the two-day meeting, Sierra Leone contributed to discussions on integrated child protection services, child-friendly justice systems, alternative care, violence prevention, social protection, financing, and accountability mechanisms.
The engagement provided Sierra Leone with an opportunity to showcase national achievements, learn from successful interventions in other countries, and strengthen partnerships to advance child protection nationwide.
As a proud member of the Pathfinding Global Alliance, Sierra Leone renewed its pledge to accelerate action towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensuring that every child is protected from violence by 2030.
The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs emphasized its mission to build a safer, more inclusive, and protective society where every child can thrive.