By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope Reporter
Parliament, 10 June 2026 – The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone has described enforcement of the country’s Sexual Offences Law as only “partially effective,” warning that weak implementation is undermining justice for survivors despite years of legal and institutional reforms.
HRCSL presented its 2020–2024 Status Report to Parliament on Tuesday. The report acknowledges progress in setting up Sexual Offences Model Courts, One-Stop Centres, a national 116 toll-free hotline, and referral systems for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. However, the Commission said significant gaps remain and continue to weaken the law’s impact.
Chairperson Patricia Narsu Ndanema told Parliament that key provisions of the Sexual Offences Amendment Act 2019 are yet to be fully implemented. These include the establishment of a national forensic laboratory and a sex offenders’ registry. She said their absence slows investigations and limits successful prosecutions.
The report also highlights shortages of trained investigators, prosecutors, survivor support services, and safe shelters, especially outside urban centres. HRCSL said these deficits continue to block access to justice for many victims.
Data from the Rainbo Initiative cited in the report show sexual and gender-based violence remains a serious national concern. Cases increased from 2,771 in 2024, including 2,607 sexual assaults, to 3,055 in 2025. Women and girls accounted for the vast majority of survivors.
“While Sierra Leone has strengthened its legal framework on sexual violence, enforcement remains the weakest link,” the Commission concluded. “Institutional capacity and resources have not kept pace with reforms.”
The findings have renewed calls for urgent government action to fully implement existing laws and ensure survivors receive effective protection and justice.
For more information contact Daily Scope Newspaper at dailyscopemedia@gmail.com
