On September 17, 2024, the Human Rights Defenders Network Sierra Leone (HRDN-SL), with generous support from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), conducted a pivotal one-day strategic capacity-building training in Moyamba District.

This initiative was designed to promote Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) and to prevent violence against women and girls, aiming to bridge the gap in gender disparity within the community.

The training reflects HRDN-SL’s unwavering commitment to advancing human rights and fostering a society that upholds the dignity and rights of all individuals, particularly women and girls who are often disproportionately affected by violence and discrimination.

The session focused on increasing awareness and understanding of the GEWE Act, a legislative framework that articulates the rights of women and girls and the necessary measures to protect them.

During the training, Mr. Jusu Gbondo, the Senior Protection Officer from the Ministry of Gender in Moyamba District, highlighted the importance of disseminating information about the GEWE Act and encouraged participants

to actively engage in spreading this vital knowledge throughout their communities, underscoring that familiarity with the Act empowers individuals to advocate for their rights and the rights of others.

The expected outcomes of this training extend far beyond the confines of the event itself. By equipping participants with essential knowledge and skills, HRDN-SL anticipates that attendees will:

Elevate Community Awareness: Participants will expand their understanding of gender equality and the significance of the GEWE Act, becoming ambassadors for these crucial issues within their communities.

Encourage Dialogue and Advocacy: By fostering discussions surrounding gender rights, participants will be empowered to engage in advocacy efforts, contributing to a shift in cultural perceptions and attitudes toward gender equality.

Strengthen Reporting Mechanisms: Training attendees will be better equipped to identify and report incidents of violence against women and girls, thereby enhancing community response mechanisms and support systems.

Build Networks of Support: The training will facilitate the creation of networks among participants, leading to collaborative efforts in addressing gender-based violence and promoting women’s rights at the local level.

Drive Policy Implementation: With a clear understanding of the GEWE Act, participants will be enabled to hold local authorities accountable for the implementation of policies and initiatives that support gender equality and the protection of women’s rights.

In summary, the strategic capacity-building training conducted by HRDN-SL is a significant step towards fostering a community that values gender equality and actively prevents violence against women and girls.

By empowering individuals the initiative aims to cultivate a safer, more equitable environment for all members of the community, thereby contributing to the broader objective of sustainable development in Sierra Leone.

HRDN-SL is a coalition of human right defenders, civil society organizations and individuals working for the protection and promotion of human rights in Sierra Leone.