By: Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope Reporter
The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs and Freetown City Council have unveiled the “Freetown Caring City Project,” a new initiative designed to support unpaid caregivers, particularly women and girls in vulnerable communities across the capital.
Senior officials from both institutions met Monday, May 25, 2026, at the Ministry’s headquarters to finalize strategies for strengthening social support systems. Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr led the FCC delegation.
Talks focused on expanding access to healthcare, education, social welfare services, safe community spaces, and economic opportunities for women who provide unpaid care at home and in neighborhoods. The project will also tackle sexual and gender-based violence through safe learning spaces, computer literacy training, and financial inclusion programs.
Chief Director Charles Vandi welcomed the delegation and introduced ministry officials including Deputy Directors Bamie J. Sesay and Mrs. Hannah Lahai Robinson, alongside Assistant Directors Foday Sesay and Laura Koroma.
Minister Isata Mahoi described the initiative as timely and impactful, linking it to the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act. She said the law was enacted to remove barriers women face in accessing finance, leadership roles, and national decision-making.
“I am very happy for this laudable initiative. This is more than welcome for us,” Dr. Mahoi stated, commending the project’s grassroots focus on vulnerable women and caregivers.
Mayor Aki-Sawyerr noted the project is funded by the International Development Research Centre and forms part of a broader international urban development agenda. Sierra Leone is among the countries selected for implementation.
The engagement ended with a group photograph, symbolizing strengthened collaboration toward inclusive urban development and women’s empowerment.
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