By Sallieu S, Kanu
FREETOWN, Sierra Leone — September 8, 2026 — Women on Mining and Extractives Sierra Leone (WoME-SL) has presented findings of its shadow report on the Cyber Security and Crime Act 2021, focusing on Section 44 which addresses cyberstalking and cyberbullying, to the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL).
The engagement, held at the Commission’s headquarters in Tower Hill, sought HRCSL’s perspective on the section’s implications for free speech and explored possible collaboration for review.
Concerns Over Section 44
WoME-SL’s report highlighted several challenges, including:
- Limited awareness of legal provisions among the public.
- Divergent perspectives between government and civil society.
- A chilling effect on freedom of expression.
- Reluctance to participate in digital spaces due to fear of reprisals.
Commissioner Hassan Samba Yarjah commended WoME-SL for its research and engagement, noting that the findings provide an opportunity for the Commission to reflect on how cybersecurity measures can be pursued in ways that respect and protect human rights.
WoME-SL Executive Director Esther Finda Kandeh thanked the Commission for its openness, stressing that Section 44 has significant impacts on the digital space for free speech. “We decided to share our findings with the Commission because of your critical role in the protection and promotion of human rights in Sierra Leone,” she said, adding that civic space is integral to human rights and requires broader dialogue.
The engagement concluded with consensus on the need for: greater capacity building for the Sierra Leone Police, Increased public awareness of the Cyber Security and Crime Act 2021, and advocacy for a possible review of Section 44 to safeguard free expression while addressing cybercrime.