By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope
The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, in partnership with Campaign for Good Governance (CGG), Trocaire, and various development stakeholders, has officially unveiled the Network of Women Ministers and Parliamentarians (NEWMAP) Constitution and Strategic Plan for 2025-2030. This significant event took place at the New Brookfields Hotel and attracted key figures committed to advancing gender equality in Sierra Leone.
In her opening remarks, Permanent Secretary Aminata Y. Sannoh emphasized the importance of the NEWMAP initiative, stating, “This launch is essential for amplifying the voices of women and girls, fostering solidarity, and mobilizing resources dedicated to women’s empowerment.”
Deputy Chief Director Charles Vandi provided historical context, noting that the concept of NEWMAP has been in development for over twenty years. “NEWMAP aims to establish a unified platform to empower women, enhance social welfare through the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, and build partnerships for mentorship and leadership opportunities,” he explained.
Sahr Kendema presented the NEWMAP Strategic Plan for 2025-2030, outlining its vision, mission, and key strategic areas, including collaboration, advocacy, legal empowerment, and monitoring and evaluation. Sannoh reinforced the need for collaborative efforts to advance gender equality, highlighting the initiative’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and transformative leadership.
Bernadette French, Director of Programmes at CGG, chaired the event and remarked that the launch represents a significant commitment to empowering women to drive societal change. “This is a call to action for development partners, civil society organizations, and the government to unite in dismantling the systemic barriers facing women leaders,” she stated.
During a panel discussion, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs Dr. Isata Mahoi recounted the achievements of the GEWE Act and other gender-sensitive frameworks. She stressed that NEWMAP would enhance the implementation of policies designed to boost women’s participation in decision-making roles, including the principles outlined in UN Resolution 1325.
Rebecca Yei Kamara highlighted Parliament’s initiatives to improve women’s issues through reforms to the Sexual Offences Act and the Customary Land Rights Act. Mariama Bangura also underscored the importance of NEWMAP in promoting women’s advocacy and leadership.
Baindu Massaquoi from UN Women reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to providing technical support for NEWMAP’s implementation. Sahr Emerson Lamina, a male ally in Parliament, pledged his continued mentorship in support of women’s empowerment initiatives.
In her keynote address, Madam Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, commended President Julius Maada Bio for his leadership in promoting women’s rights, noting the 41% female representation in Cabinet. She concluded the event by officially launching the NEWMAP Constitution and Strategic Plan 2025-2030, calling it a crucial milestone in the pursuit of gender equality in Sierra Leone.
Gender Adviser at the Office of the President, Madam I. J. Kabba, urged women to unite across political affiliations and serve as role models within their communities. During the commitments segment, Ms. Judith Jones, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, pledged her support for integrating women into tourism and sustainable development initiatives.
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