By Elizabeth A. Kaine
Freetown, 20th November 2025 On this Int’l Children’s Day, a pressing concern looms over the well-being of our children in Sierra Leone. Countless young lives are growing up without the essential protection and nurturing they need. Among the most vulnerable are those without parental care, children living in slums, and those forced to abandon their education, spending their days on the streets selling goods or begging alongside their families. This reality calls for urgent action to safeguard our children and ensure they receive the opportunities they rightfully deserve.
One of the most alarming issues is the easy access to substances such as kush (marijuana) and other harmful drugs. While often dismissed, for many children especially those seeking escape from trauma or difficult circumstances these substances become a dangerous outlet. The government must enforce stricter regulations on drug access, particularly in neighborhoods where children are most at risk. This requires not only stringent laws against drug trafficking but also proactive policies that protect children from environments that normalize drug use. Children should not have to navigate the harsh realities of adult life prematurely; their right to a carefree childhood must be safeguarded.
The conditions faced by children living in slums are equally troubling. These areas frequently lack basic services, exposing children to health risks, violence, and neglect. It is the government’s duty to improve living conditions by investing in infrastructure, ensuring access to clean water, and expanding healthcare facilities. It is unacceptable that children lose their lives to preventable diseases. A robust healthcare system that prioritizes children’s needs is essential to provide the necessary care for even the most marginalized communities.
Education remains a fundamental right; yet, many children are forced to abandon their studies to support their families. The sight of young children selling goods or begging for money is both heartbreaking and unnecessary. The government must prioritize education by providing free schooling, creating incentives for families to keep their children in class, and developing vocational training programs. By ensuring educational opportunities, we can help break the cycle of poverty and open pathways to a brighter future.
Additionally, support systems for orphans and children without parental care must be strengthened. Sierra Leone should invest in foster care and adoption programs to provide safe homes for children who have lost their families. Community initiatives can further encourage collective responsibility, ensuring no child is left to fend for themselves.
To better protect children, the government must introduce policies that specifically address the needs of those living in drug-affected environments. This could include rehabilitation programs for families entangled in drug-related activities and protective measures to remove children from harmful situations. By addressing these factors, we can help prevent children from being thrust into adult responsibilities too soon, allowing them to experience the joys of childhood.
Addressing these multifaceted challenges is not solely the responsibility of the government; it necessitates the collaboration of civil society, non-governmental organizations, and community members. Everyone has a role to play in advocating for children’s rights, raising awareness about existing issues, and working collectively toward sustainable solutions.
As we celebrate Int’l Children’s Day, we must foster a culture of protection and accountability. Children should not have to endure a world filled with harm and neglect. Instead, they deserve to grow up in environments that nurture their potential and prepare them for a brighter future. For each child in Sierra Leone whether living in slums, on the streets, or in troubled households we must ensure they receive the love, support, and opportunities they deserve. By prioritizing their welfare today, we lay the foundation for a healthier, more prosperous Sierra Leone tomorrow.
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