By Sliieu S. Kanu
Freetown, Sierra Leone – July 1, 2026: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), through the European Union-funded Spotlight Initiative, has presented an assessment report on Family Support Unit (FSU) service provision and capacity gaps to the Inspector General of Police, Mr. William Fayia Sellu, according to a statement which was put out by the police media
The report underscores UNDP’s commitment to strengthening access to justice for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Sierra Leone.
Presenting the findings, UNDP Gender Analyst Madam Kadiatu Bachalle Taylor highlighted ongoing interventions in Kailahun, Falaba, and Moyamba Districts in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police, the Judiciary, and the Ministry of Justice. She commended FSU officers for their dedication, particularly those serving in remote communities despite limited resources.
The assessment, conducted across nine FSU jurisdictions, identified critical staffing, logistical, and operational gaps affecting service delivery. To address these challenges, UNDP has procured 14 motorcycles, laptops, printers, and ICT equipment to enhance mobility and operational effectiveness. A review of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is also underway to tackle emerging forms of gender-based violence, including technology-facilitated offences and crimes in border communities.
Receiving the report, Inspector General Sellu expressed gratitude to UNDP for its continued support, describing the Family Support Unit as one of the Sierra Leone Police’s most critical departments. He assured the delegation that Police Management would carefully consider the recommendations and pledged to engage the UNDP Resident Representative to accelerate delivery of proposed interventions.
The IGP noted that growing public confidence in the FSU has led to more survivors reporting cases of sexual and gender-based violence, stressing the importance of building on these gains by further strengthening the Unit.
Background on the Family Support Unit (FSU)
Established in 2007, the Family Support Unit is a specialized department within the Sierra Leone Police dedicated to handling cases of sexual and gender-based violence, child abuse, and domestic violence. The FSU provides survivor-centered services, including investigation, referral, and support, while working closely with the Judiciary, Ministry of Social Welfare, and civil society organizations. Over the years, the Unit has become a cornerstone in Sierra Leone’s fight against SGBV, though challenges such as limited resources, staffing shortages, and logistical constraints continue to affect its operations.
The presentation of the UNDP assessment report reaffirms the strong partnership between the Sierra Leone Police and UNDP under the Spotlight Initiative, aimed at advancing access to justice and improving protection for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence across the country.