Don Bosco Fambul, a prominent child advocacy organization, has called for intensified efforts to combat gender-based violence and bolster protections for vulnerable children in Sierra Leone. In partnership with the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, the organization is addressing the ongoing challenges threatening the safety and well-being of women and children nationwide.

During an interview at Don Bosco Fambul’s National Headquarters, Ibrahim Turay, the Advocacy Leader for Children, outlined the critical issues facing the country, including widespread domestic violence and the neglect of homeless children. Turay praised the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs for its active role in referring cases to Don Bosco Fambul and for providing essential policy guidance under the Child Rights Act 2007. This collaboration has been vital in addressing various forms of abuse and ensuring the protection of children.

Turay also discussed the forthcoming MOBID project, which aims to provide targeted support
to homeless children living in slums, on the streets, and those involved in commercial sex work. The initiative is designed to offer these children opportunities for a better future through comprehensive programs tailored to their specific needs.

However, Turay raised concerns about the ongoing social discrimination and isolation experienced by many children, particularly those from lower-income families. He pointed out that cultural norms and economic dependency on male breadwinners often lead to domestic violence, with devastating psychological impacts on children.

Moreover, Turay highlighted the gap in the attention given to homeless children, noting that many institutions focus primarily on middle-class children, leaving those most in need without adequate support. He stressed the importance of adopting a more inclusive approach to child welfare, ensuring that all children, regardless of socio-economic status, receive the necessary care and protection.

To address these challenges, Turay recommended sev
eral critical actions, including raising awareness about gender-based violence, especially at the grassroots level, ensuring the effective implementation of existing policies, and strengthening coordination between institutions and agencies to reduce the risk of domestic violence and support affected children and women.

Turay also emphasized the need for improved data collection and analysis to better understand and respond to gender-based violence and child protection issues. He urged the government and local institutions to digitize data management systems, enhancing their ability to track, address, and prevent these critical issues more effectively.

Source : Sierra Leone News Agency