Women dialogue on Inclusion of Girls, Young Women

AYV News, August 19, 2024

The Women’s Forum Sierra Leone held a one-day dialogue with government institutions to promote the inclusion of girls and young women in national planning and monitoring processes.

The dialogue was part of the ‘She Leads’ project, supported by FEMNET, which aims to enhance the participation of girls and young women (GYW) in national development through decision-making processes.

Sally Adams, National President of Women’s Forum Sierra Leone, noted that since its establishment in 1994, the forum has registered over 300 women’s organizations nationwide, focusing on women’s and children’s rights. She described the ‘She Leads’ project as a collaborative effort involving 5 international organizations, with its headquarters in the Netherlands. In Sierra Leone, the project operates through a consortium that includes Defence for Children International, Plan International, and Women’s Forum Sierra Leone, representing FEMNET. The initiative seeks to increase the influence of GYW on decision-making and transform gender norms in both formal and informal institutions.

She emphasized that the project aims to empower girls and young women in leadership and decision-making roles across various sectors, including national levels. Covering nine African countries, including Sierra Leone, the project calls on the government to continue creating space for the inclusion of girls and young women in planning and monitoring processes, particularly regarding their rights.

Dr. Isata Mahoi, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, commended the Women’s Forum for its national outreach and underscored the importance of collaboration. She highlighted that the current parliament includes nearly 50% women and stressed the need for ongoing empowerment of women for societal development.

Dr. Mahoi encouraged young people, especially girls, to focus on their futures and express their concerns through national development programs.

Worokia Conteh, Director at the Ministry of Social Welfare, highlighted the importance of education as a cornerstone of empowerment and urged young girls to prioritize their education. She also called on parents to monitor their children, particularly girls, and emphasized the Ministry’s parenting program aimed at protecting children’s futures.

Elizabeth Sheriff, Gender Focal Point at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, announced the Ministry’s new seven-year strategic plan, which includes a target of creating 500,000 jobs for youth, with 30% allocated to young women. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to gender empowerment and support for young women, aligning with the President’s major development goals.

Rosaline McCarthy, speaking on behalf of CSOs, stressed the importance of protecting children, particularly girls, and ensuring women’s involvement in national decision-making. The dialogue aimed to ensure that the inclusion of girls and young women in national development receives the attention and implementation it deserves.