Advancing Women’s Leadership in Sierra Leone, a Powerful Step Forward.
On June 1, 2026, a high-level strategic meeting convened in Freetown, bringing together the Network of Women Ministers and Parliamentarians (NEWMAP), the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MOGCA), Trocaire, the Campaign for Good Governance (CGG), and other key stakeholders to advance women’s empowerment and leadership.
NEWMAP Coordinator Hannah Lahai Robinson reaffirmed the network’s mandate to strengthen women’s rights and leadership roles through its strategic plan launched in August 2025, while NEWMAP representative Maxwella Sesay highlighted new media platforms to popularize the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act and showcase advocacy campaigns. Bob Lamin of the Rainbo Initiative reported operational one-stop centres for SGBV survivors in Bombali, Port Loko, and Kambia, alongside Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) driving grassroots economic empowerment.
Sahr Kendema of CGG provided historical context on NEWMaP’s creation and its revitalization through active female parliamentarians and ministers, and MoGCA Chief Director Charles Vandi praised Trocaire and CGG and other partners for their steadfast support, stating, “The struggle for womanhood is about emancipating women from the social challenges that continue to hinder their progress.”
The Minister Dr. Isata Mahoi of MoGCA stressed the importance of reviving NEWMAP to overcome gender discrimination, marginalization, and societal barriers, proposing a national women’s conference, increased resources, media advocacy, and expanded staffing for the network.
The way forward includes stronger partnerships, coordinated action, and increased investment – supported by MoGCA, NEWMaP, CGG, Trocaire, and the Rainbo Initiative – to accelerate women’s participation in leadership and decision-making across Sierra Leone.
