Today, I received the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, Madam Najat Maalla M’jid, at my office in Goderich. She was accompanied by the Honourable Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Madam Isata Mahoi.
The visit provided an important opportunity to reflect on Sierra Leone’s progress in advancing the protection and welfare of children, assess the gains we have collectively made in addressing violence against children, and discuss the measures required to safeguard and build on these achievements, both nationally and globally.
Our discussions centred on the significant progress Sierra Leone has made in protecting children, particularly in the fight against violence, abuse and harmful practices. We reflected on the gains achieved through our collective efforts and, importantly, explored how we can consolidate these achievements, strengthen existing interventions and sustain the momentum both nationally and globally.
Protecting children is not simply a national responsibility; it is a shared global obligation. Every child, regardless of their circumstances or background, deserves to grow up in a safe environment, free from violence, exploitation and fear, with access to opportunities that allow them to fulfil their potential.
As a country, we must remain steadfast in translating our commitments into meaningful action. We must strengthen our institutions, empower families and communities, ensure accountability and continue to amplify the voices of children, particularly the most vulnerable.
I believe that the progress we have made must serve as a foundation for even greater action. We cannot afford to become complacent when the safety, dignity and future of our children are at stake.
Together, we must protect our gains, strengthen our partnerships and build a future where every child is protected, valued and given the opportunity to thrive.
WeAre FATIMA
FMB.
The visit provided an important opportunity to reflect on Sierra Leone’s progress in advancing the protection and welfare of children, assess the gains we have collectively made in addressing violence against children, and discuss the measures required to safeguard and build on these achievements, both nationally and globally.
Our discussions centred on the significant progress Sierra Leone has made in protecting children, particularly in the fight against violence, abuse and harmful practices. We reflected on the gains achieved through our collective efforts and, importantly, explored how we can consolidate these achievements, strengthen existing interventions and sustain the momentum both nationally and globally.
Protecting children is not simply a national responsibility; it is a shared global obligation. Every child, regardless of their circumstances or background, deserves to grow up in a safe environment, free from violence, exploitation and fear, with access to opportunities that allow them to fulfil their potential.
As a country, we must remain steadfast in translating our commitments into meaningful action. We must strengthen our institutions, empower families and communities, ensure accountability and continue to amplify the voices of children, particularly the most vulnerable.
I believe that the progress we have made must serve as a foundation for even greater action. We cannot afford to become complacent when the safety, dignity and future of our children are at stake.
Together, we must protect our gains, strengthen our partnerships and build a future where every child is protected, valued and given the opportunity to thrive.
WeAre FATIMA
FMB.
