By Fatima Kpaka
Sierra Leone has renewed its commitment to ending all forms of violence against children following a high-level engagement between the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, and the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) on Violence Against Children during the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 81) in New York.
The meeting focused on strengthening international and national efforts to protect children from violence, abuse, exploitation and harmful practices.
During the discussions, Dr. Mahoi highlighted Sierra Leone’s progress in strengthening child protection through key legislative reforms, including the Child Marriage Act, 2024 and the Child Rights Act, 2025.
She described the laws as important milestones in advancing children’s rights and safeguarding their welfare, while emphasizing the Government’s determination to translate legal reforms into effective protection mechanisms and tangible improvements in the lives of children.
The Minister reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to eliminating all forms of violence against children and called for sustained investment in prevention, protection, accountability and survivor-centered services.
She also underscored the importance of stronger collaboration among governments, the United Nations, civil society organizations, communities and development partners to create safer environments for children.
According to Dr. Mahoi, every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn and thrive free from violence, abuse and exploitation.
The engagement formed part of Sierra Leone’s broader participation at UNGA 81, where government officials are holding strategic discussions aimed at advancing national development priorities and strengthening international partnerships.