By Kadijatu Bangura, D.S. Reporter
The Mano River Women Peace Network has warned border and security officers to end all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse against women traders.
The warning came during a one-day training held on August 27, 2026, in Jendema Town, Sorogbema Chiefdom, Pujehun District. The workshop was supported by Irish Aid in partnership with UN Women under the project “Enhancing Women’s Protection and Inclusion in Peacebuilding Processes in Sierra Leone.”
Key border and security personnel attended, including representatives from ONS, RSLAF, Immigration, NRA, SLP, and the Ministry of Health.
MARWOPNET Project Coordinator John Augustine Lahai said the training was based on research conducted in February 2025 across 4 districts and 25 chiefdoms. The research engaged over 700 women cross-border traders, about 25 focus group discussions, and several border officials.
“We are now in Gendema to share these findings with border personnel so that they can better understand the challenges faced by cross-border women traders and the mechanisms available for reporting violations,” Lahai said. He noted similar trainings have been held in Kambia and Kailahun.
Lahai urged border personnel to remain professional and avoid violations. He also encouraged women traders to carry all required documents for legitimate cross-border trade.
ONS Director of Gender Affairs, Sia Wango Alhassan Kabia, thanked MARWOPNET and said protecting women and girls is a national responsibility.
“The safety of women involved in cross-border trade is essential to national development, economic and human security,” Kabia stated.
She urged women to report cases of sexual exploitation and abuse through proper channels and not to allow any border personnel to take advantage of them.
The training forms part of MARWOPNET’s continued efforts to promote women’s protection and meaningful participation in peacebuilding in Sierra Leone’s border communities.
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