By: Elizabeth A. Kaine
Child abuse is a scourge that plagues our community, leaving scars that last a lifetime. As sisters, mothers, and caregivers, it’s our responsibility to shield our children from harm.
The statistics are staggering. According to UNICEF Sierra Leone, over 40% of children in Sierra Leone experience physical or emotional abuse. One in five girls suffers sexual abuse (Save the Children Sierra Leone). These numbers represent shattered dreams, lost potential, and a future compromised.
Tragically, child abuse often occurs at the hands of those closest to the child. Aunts, stepmothers, and other family members can inflict unimaginable pain. Children are subjected to hunger, physical torture, and emotional trauma. Some are tied up, beaten mercilessly, or set ablaze. Others are forced into begging to escape home abuse.Worse still, children are often viewed as laborers, exploited for domestic work, and denied basic rights. This is unacceptable.
We must confront this reality head-on. Educating ourselves on signs of abuse is crucial. We must recognize the subtle hints, the unexplained injuries, and the changes in behavior.
Creating safe spaces for children to share their stories is vital. We must listen without judgment, believe them, and provide emotional support. Connecting them with professional help can save lives. For immediate support, contact the National Child Abuse Hotline (111) or Childline (116).
Despite the tireless efforts of organizations like Don Bosco fambul and other child rights advocates, thousands of children remain trapped in abusive situations, hidden from plain sight. These invisible victims suffer in silence, their cries muffled by the very people who should protect them.
To combat this, we need:
1. Increased awareness campaigns to recognize subtle signs of abuse.
2. Community-based programs empowering children to speak out.
3. Strengthened laws and enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable.
4. Support services for victims, including counseling and rehabilitation.
5. Collaboration between organizations, governments, and communities.
Moreover, our government must take decisive action. We need laws that explicitly criminalize child abuse, ensuring everyone – regardless of education or socio-economic status – understands its severity. Child abuse should never be taken lightly or justified culturally. Strict penalties for perpetrators and protection for victims will send a strong message.
As sisters, we owe it to ourselves, our community, and future generations to act. We must unite to protect our children and create a safer, more compassionate community.
Together, we can make a difference. Let’s rise up and shield our children from harm. The future of Sierra Leone depends on it.
