By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Kambia District, Sierra Leone — ABC Development, a non-governmental organisation, has empowered 538 residents across Munu Thala and Magbema chiefdoms to strengthen women’s participation in leadership and community decision-making.
The initiative, known as the Empowering Women’s Leadership and Political Participation Project, has reached 338 women, 200 men and 50 adolescent girls in 10 communities through leadership training, mentoring, coaching, community dialogues and livelihood support.
Foday Mansaray, a member of the organisation, said the project — supported by partners including the Irish Civil Society Partnership (ICSP) — seeks to dismantle social and cultural barriers that have historically limited women’s role in governance.
“The programme promotes gender equality and inclusive community development by equipping women with leadership skills and confidence to participate in decision-making,” Mansaray explained.
Breaking Traditions
One of the project’s landmark achievements came in Gballan Thalla, Munu Thala Chiefdom, where Kadie Black Kamara became the first woman in more than 100 years to contest a chieftaincy election.
Kamara credited the training and awareness sessions for giving her the confidence to run.
“Women now understand they have the right to participate in decision-making and contribute to development,” she said, noting that Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) have also boosted women’s economic independence.
Support for cassava cultivation on 2.5 hectares of land has further improved food security and household incomes.
Community Impact
Chairlady Adamsay Kamara of Masidama, Katik Community, said the initiative has transformed attitudes toward women’s rights.
“Before ABC Development came, many women knew very little about their rights. Today, women are more confident, men are more supportive, and families are improving livelihoods through farming and savings,” she said.
The organisation has also supported 15 women’s groups and 15 men’s groups to promote savings, gender equality and active participation in community development. Eight community grants worth NLe50,000 have been awarded to support locally identified initiatives.
Officials from the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs commended ABC Development’s contribution. District Supervisor Umaru Kunateh Bah described the partnership as productive, noting that more women are now contesting leadership positions, including seats on the Kambia District Council.
“ABC Development is one of our key partners, complementing Government’s efforts to promote gender equality, women’s empowerment and child protection,” Bah said.
Councillor N’balia Bongay of Constituency 060 added that the project has strengthened women’s confidence and financial management through savings initiatives, enabling greater participation in leadership and local development.