By: Elizabeth A. Kaine As we observe World HIV Day, it is crucial to reflect on the tireless work of health workers and the challenges faced by individuals living with HIV, particularly in African countries like Sierra Leone. The dual battle against the virus and the pervasive stigma associated with it is a pressing issue…
By: Elizabeth A. Kaine In Sierra Leone, the role of journalism is crucial yet often undermined by a pervasive culture of skepticism and hostility. Journalists serve as the watchdogs of democracy, providing essential information on human rights violations and public interest issues. However, when unfavorable stories are published, institutions frequently retaliate by employing other journalists…
By: Elizabeth A. Kaine The ongoing fatalities linked to the street railings at Lumley in Freetown demand an urgent and exclusive focus on public safety that cannot be ignored any longer. With four lives lost to electrocution in just over a year—including the tragic death of a young man this past Monday—these railings, intended to…
By: Elizabeth A. Kaine As Sierra Leone prepares to commemorate the second anniversary of the UN World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence on November 18, the nation reflects on a pivotal journey filled with both progress and ongoing challenges. Under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio…
By: Elizabeth A. Kaine The prevalence of child sexual abuse in Sierra Leone is not just a societal concern; it is a devastating crisis that has led to the tragic loss of countless young lives. Each case represents not only a violation of a child’s rights but also a profound failure of the systems designed…
By: Elizabeth A. Kaine Sister-to-sister talks can be a powerful catalyst for addressing the intricacies of parenting and the vital relationships between parents and their children. These open conversations provide a unique platform for sharing experiences, insights, and strategies that can greatly enhance the parenting journey. Central to this dialogue is the recognition of parents’…
By: Elizabeth A. Kaine The announcement by the Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Paran Umar Tarawally, that a motion to pay backlog salaries for opposition All Peoples Congress (APC) Members of Parliament will be tabled by December 2024 raises significant ethical concerns in the context of Sierra Leone’s ongoing healthcare challenges. While Parliamentarians prepare to receive…
By: Elizabeth A. Kaine In Sierra Leone, where healthcare challenges are prevalent, it is vital to emphasize the significant role breastfeeding plays in promoting maternal and child health. As sisters, friends, and future mothers, we must engage in open discussions about the benefits of breastfeeding, particularly regarding cancer prevention. Research consistently shows that breastfeeding can…
By: Elizabeth A. Kaine The recent collapse of a building on Mellon Street in the Kissy area of Freetown, which resulted in the tragic loss of two lives on October 24, 2024, highlights a grim reality: the epidemic of building failures in Sierra Leone has reached critical levels. This incident, occurring after heavy rainfall that…
By: Elizabeth A. Kaine Hey, sis! I’ve been thinking a lot about some serious issues affecting our community, and one that really stands out is human trafficking, especially how it impacts women and children in Sierra Leone. It’s such a heartbreaking topic, but we need to talk about it. Many people are unaware of the…
