By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter D.S
The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, officially launched the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Coalition Information Hub and a nationwide Mentorship Programme, organized by UN Women Sierra Leone.
At the high-profile gathering, Dr. Mahoi described the initiatives as “transformative efforts” that signify a new chapter in the country’s pursuit of gender equality and sustainable peace. “These initiatives are a testament to our collective efforts to advance the women, peace, and security agenda,” she stated.
Reflecting on the establishment and growth of the WPS Civil Society Organization (CSO) Coalition, Dr. Mahoi celebrated its evolution into a key player in peacebuilding policy and advocacy. She highlighted the coalition’s contributions to the development of the Third National Action Plan (SiLNAP III) and its impact on promoting inclusive governance.
Dr. Mahoi commended the progress achieved under the project, particularly the training of 573 female aspirants in electoral processes, which has resulted in 16 women now serving as Members of Parliament and 68 as councillors. “We are witnessing a paradigm shift,” she remarked. “Women, including young women and those with disabilities, are becoming more confident, assertive, and engaged in decision-making processes.”
The mentorship programme aims to deepen empowerment across civil society organizations, while the information hub will serve as a vital resource for data, advocacy, and knowledge sharing. Dr. Mahoi called on donors and development partners to leverage these initiatives to enhance local leadership in peace and security. “These platforms present a strategic opportunity for development partners to support and scale women-led initiatives,” she emphasized.
In closing, Dr. Mahoi, on behalf of the government of President Julius Maada Bio, reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to addressing the needs of coalition members and fostering a society where gender equality is a lived reality, not merely an option.
The launch event brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from UN Women, World Vision, and the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, along with coalition members, mentors, and mentees.
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