United Nations in Sierra Leone

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Sierra Leone:

Learn more

Story

13 January 2025

UNFPA, UNECA & US Census Bureau technical experts in town on support mission for 2025 Census.

As Sierra Leone prepares for the Population and Housing Census, Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL), in partnership with UNFPA Sierra Leone, is hosting a team of technical experts from UNFPA New York, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and the United States Census Bureau on a weeklong assessment and support mission for the process, which will be held in December 2025.The mission, which started today and ends on Friday, will be a critical step in a comprehensive evaluation process to ensure a successful transition to a digital census.At the opening held at the New Broofields Hotel in Freetown this morning, the Statistician General Andrew Bob Johnny said that efficient management of a country's economic and social affairs rests on evidence-based decision-making. He emphasised that generating relevant, accurate, and timely statistics is essential to that purpose, and producing detailed statistics for small areas and small population groups is its foundation. Therefore, he welcomed the team of experts, noting that at the end of the mission, the government and donor partners would have identified strengths and weaknesses for support.World Bank Country Manager Abdou Muwonge congratulated the Government on what he described as a key activity that will lay the groundwork for the 2025 census and noted that planning is essential.The UNFPA Deputy Rep (Officer-in-Charge) Sibeso Muluma said her agency is well grounded in the process but called on partners to join the process. Resident Coordinator Seraphine Wakana said the endeavour marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone's journey toward understanding the evolving needs and aspirations of its diverse population." This census will help all stakeholders to identify gaps and opportunities, enabling a targeted approach to development that benefits all citizens," she said.The Resident Coordinator noted that collaboration is key in such a process as the assessment, which, according to her, is about identifying challenges and leveraging collective strengths and experiences.The RC concluded by reiterating the United Nations System's commitment to supporting the Government of Sierra Leone in undertaking a Census that meets international standards. The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Mr Chernor Bah, underscored the Government's support and commitment to a successful census. He said it is a civic imperative that the people should own, one that concerns our identity.In her keynote address, Minister of Planning and Economic Development Madam Kenyeh Barlay said the Government is prepared to carry the burden of Africa and conduct a successful census. She said the legislative and legal frameworks are in place and that the Government has also committed financially to the process.UNECA and the US Census Bureau made presentations highlighting the goals for supporting the census The mission's major focus is to review key census components, including logistics, technological infrastructure, legal frameworks, human resources, and stakeholder engagement. This will help identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas requiring improvement and support to ensure the 2025 census aligns with international best practices for digital data collection.

Story

20 December 2024

IOM facilitates the return of 147 stranded migrants from Niger.

Yesterday, the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) facilitated the safe and dignified return of 147 Sierra Leonean migrants who were stranded in Niger.Upon arrival at Freetown International Airport on the same day, IOM staff closely coordinated with the Government of Sierra Leone to register the returnees and provide cash assistance for their immediate needs and food, water, and onward transportation. In the coming weeks, they will receive further reintegration assistance to address their economic, social, and psychosocial needs.Several high-level attendees were present to welcome home these migrants, including the United Nations Resident Coordinator, the Head of Cooperation at the European Union in Sierra Leone, Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs, and the Presidential Advisor on Youth Affairs. “Our compatriots who we welcome today are among thousands who embarked on a dangerous journey in search of opportunities to better their lives and the lives of their families. Unfortunately, due to various circumstances, they have had to make the courageous decision to return home,” said Seraphine Wakana, UN Resident Coordinator. “IOM will support their sustainable reintegration back into their communities, especially the most vulnerable, in the spirit of Leave No One Behind.”Since 2017, IOM has assisted more than 11,000 migrants in returning to Sierra Leone. Over 2,100 of these cases—including yesterday’s flight—were directly supported by funding from the European Union’s Migrant Protection, Return and Reintegration Program in Sub-Saharan Africa (MPRR-SSA). MPRR-SSA plays a pivotal role in increasing protection mechanisms for vulnerable or stranded migrants, assisting the voluntary humanitarian return of migrants, and supporting the sustainable reintegration of migrants into their home societies. Yesterday’s arrival comes just one day after International Migrants Day, an occasion to illuminate the invaluable contributions of migrants worldwide and the increasingly complex environment in which migration occurs. Conflicts, climate-related disasters, and economic pressures continue to drive millions of people from their homes in search of safety or opportunity. The partnership between IOM, the UN, the Government, and other multilateral actors in Sierra Leone will continue to strengthen as migration challenges require more innovative and collective solutions. Written by Sam Whitlow, IOM Sierra Leone (rwhitlow@iom.int)

1 of 5

Story

13 December 2024

Strategic Roadmap for Public Service Reforms in Sierra Leone launched.

On Thursday, December 12, Madam Manty Tarawalli, the Minister of State Vice President Office, representing the Vice President, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, launched the Strategic Master Plan for revamping the Public Service Architecture in Sierra Leone. The event took place at the Foreign Service Academy in Freetown. Statements were made at the event, attended by several cabinet Ministers, the UN Resident Coordinator (RC), Seraphine Wakana, the World Bank Country Manager, Abdou Muwonge, and the Chairman of the Public Service Commission, K.O Bah.Speaking on behalf of the UN Country Team (UNCT), the RC said that through UNDP, the UN has worked closely with the Ministry of Public Administration and its key agencies to strengthen institutional frameworks, align mandates, and enhance operational capacities to meet the evolving needs of the public and improve service delivery.The RC noted that the Government’s leadership is vital in demonstrating commitment, mobilizing resources, and ensuring the implementation of the recommendations emerging from this process. “Public service sits at the heart of government performance, driving transformation and delivering impactful results for the people of Sierra Leone,” she said.She concluded her remarks with a commitment from the UNCT to remain dedicated to working hand in hand with the Government to build a resilient, efficient, and people-centred public service. Guided by eight Policy Targets, the plan aligns public service with the evolving needs of the people of Sierra Leone, ensuring its relevance and responsiveness to the community. Previous assessments of the public sector have highlighted issues such as duplication of roles, weakened accountability structures, outdated regulatory frameworks, and institutional inefficiencies. These barriers have significantly hampered service delivery, strained resources, and undermined public trust.The plan launched marks a pivotal step in tackling capacity challenges while creating the foundation for streamlining the functions and mandates of various government departments to enhance accountability and transparency.

1 of 5

Story

12 December 2024

6-year Cooperation Framework aligned with Sierra Leone development priorities launched.

The Chief Minister (CM), Dr David Moinina Sengeh, on July 26, 2024, in Freetown, launched the UN in Sierra Leone Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for the next 6 years with emphasis that its implementation requires the collective effort of every stakeholder.At the event held at the Freetown International Conference Centre, the CM reaffirmed the Government's commitment to its people and a future of shared prosperity while also calling upon civil society organizations to continue their vital work in advocacy and community mobilization. "To our private sector, I say, your entrepreneurship and innovation are crucial for our economic transformation. To our development partners, we value your continued support and look forward to deepening our collaboration," he said.Dr Sengeh also highlighted the UNSDCF's significant contribution to Sierra Leone's sustainable development and the need for its full implementation, noting that it is not merely a document but a testament to our collective aspirations and a roadmap to a future where every Sierra Leonean can thrive.Minister of Planning and Economic Development (MOPED) Madam Kenyeh Barley, who was also involved in the district-wide consultations during the document's development, described the signing and launching of the UNSDCF as the beginning of a journey to a very inclusive process that was vitally focused on the country's national systems and procedures and national development agenda.In her remarks, UN Resident Coordinator Seraphine Wakana said that the occasion marked a significant landmark in the UN systems collective drive towards sustainable development, inclusive growth, and improved well-being for all Sierra Leone citizens. "The UN country team in Sierra Leone, with more than 20 Agencies, funds and programs, have contributed to and will be guided by the priorities and principles outlined in this Framework over the coming six years," she noted. Also, the RC stressed that Its development was a collective effort of the UN team, working in partnership with key Government and civil society partners.The framework focuses on three key priorities: food systems, natural resource management and climate change; human capital, essential services, and employment; and governance and economic transformation. It fully aligns with the Medium-Term National Development Goals (2024-2030), mirroring the five big game changers.The CF was signed on behalf of the Government by the MOPED Minister and the Resident Coordinator, on behalf of the UN in Sierra Leone. The Heads of Agency in Sierra Leone also signed the new document.

1 of 5

Story

11 December 2024

Yearlong Human Rights campaign launched at end of 16 Days of Activism.

The yearlong “Our Rights, Our Future: Right Now,” initiative has been launched at the Wateroo District Council Hall by UN Resident Coordinator (RC) Seraphine Wakana with calls for the Government of Sierra Leone, its MDAs and civil society stakeholders to follow the UN’s commitment to implement the campaign.It was launched while delivering her remarks at the closing of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and the International Human Rights Day Celebration on Tuesday, 10 December, with the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr Isata Mahoi, in attendance. The Deputy Chair of the Western Rural District Council and representation at the district -level from the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Health, Social Welfare, the security sector and other stakeholders also graced the event, which was followed by a Town Hall meeting. According to the RC, during the campaign, the UN intends to raise awareness about the real-life relevance of human rights and how they affect everyone daily. “We also intend to shift perceptions and counter negative stereotypes and misconceptions by highlighting success stories and the positive impact of human rights. Equally, we intend to mobilize action and encourage people to act, support human rights initiatives, and join in creating a fairer, more equal world,” she noted. On the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which also coincided with the commemorations of the International Human Rights Day, she said the past days have been filled with energy, commitment, and undeniable solidarity and that “Together, we’ve echoed one powerful truth: there is no excuse for violence.” The RC said it is a collective call to action that demands we say enough is enough. It calls for all to work together to ensure gender equality, protect women and girls, and empower everyone while leaving no one behind—including boys and men.Furthermore, she quoted UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who said, "Gender equality is a question of power” and that we must address power imbalances. In her statement, Dr Isata Mahoi said that the 16 days of activism essentially provided an opportunity to reflect on the state of gender-based violence and the Government’s actions to address this menacing threat to women and girls’ security.In recent weeks and months, the Minister said that we have witnessed an increasing surge of violence against women and girls akin to the period that predates the declaration of a Public Health Emergency on rape and sexual penetration of minors in 2019. She also noted the gains collectively made over the years in preventing and responding to violence against women and girls. “In addition to the Sexual Offences Amendment Act (2019), we have enacted the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024, and the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act (2022) to provide for gender equality in public decision-making bodies, employment and access to finance among others,” she said.As part of the sixteen days of activism, the “Real Man” Campaign was launched in all districts of the country except the western rural district.

1 of 5

Story

19 December 2024

Igniting Change: UN Women unveils the ChangeMakers programme in Sierra Leone.

In a thrilling leap towards gender equality and youth empowerment, UN Women Sierra Leone launched the ground-breaking Changemakers Program on November 20, 2024. This initiative is not just a milestone; it's a vibrant call to action, rallying young Sierra Leoneans to take the lead in transforming their communities with creativity and determination. Ahead of the launch, the inaugural cohort of ten exceptional young Sierra Leonean men and women, chosen through a highly competitive application and selection process, convened at the UN Women offices in Freetown for an inspiring two-day pre-launch orientation. Filled with enthusiasm and ambition, these ChangeMakers embarked on a transformative journey that marked the beginning of their roles as catalysts for change. The orientation paved the way for a month-long mentorship program at the UN Women offices, where they deepened their understanding of their responsibilities, refined their leadership skills, and gained the empowerment they deserved guided by the UN Women program and operations staff. Following the mentorship, the ChangeMakers will be assigned to various UN Women projects across Sierra Leone, relocating to districts where they will work closely with local national implementing partners in the year-long apprenticeship. The initiative combines expert mentorship with the invaluable skills and perspectives of the ChangeMakers, enabling them to gain hands-on experience in advancing gender equality and youth leadership initiatives. With close supervision from their mentors, they will contribute to meaningful, on-the-ground solutions while continuing to build their capacity as transformative leaders. During the orientation and throughout their apprenticeship, the ChangeMakers explored and will continue to address critical themes such as gender equality, youth leadership, and sustainable development, laying a strong foundation for impactful action. Poised to drive meaningful change, they are ready to bridge community needs with UN Women’s vision for equality and empowerment, ensuring their work leaves a lasting legacy. “This is not just a program—it is a movement,” Catherine Smith, one of the participants, passionately stated. “We are here to learn, grow, and give back to our communities in meaningful ways.” A Movement Begins The official launch event was a celebration of collaboration and vision. Government leaders, UN representatives, and key stakeholders united to highlight the program’s intimate yet powerful scope. “It’s not about the numbers; it’s about the impact, with just 10 changemakers, we’re building a legacy of pioneers who will inspire generations to come.” emphasized the UN Resident Coordinator - Seraphine Wakana. The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs energized the audience with a compelling message: “Your voices matter, your actions inspire. Today, we invest in changemakers who will transform our communities, ensuring equality and opportunity for all.” In agreement, the Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs highlighted the potential of young people, stating, “Sierra Leone’s youth are its greatest asset. Programs like this align with our commitment to empower the next generation of leaders.” A Commitment to the Future The Minister of State, Office of the Vice President shared insights on sustainable growth, noting, “Climate, agriculture, and nutrition are at the core of youth empowerment and economic development. By focusing on these areas, we’re securing a brighter future for generations to come.” Setcheme Mongbo, the UN Women Head of Office in Sierra Leone, expressed sincere gratitude: “This program reflects our dream of achieving a generation of achievers and our passion for engaging youth in gender equality and empowerment. Your support fuels our mission to create a world where everyone thrives.” She called on more stakeholders to join the cause with resources, funding, and expertise so as to sustain and scale up the initiative. Why It Matters The Changemakers Program is more than an initiative; it's a promise to nurture young leaders who are shaping the future. By emphasizing gender equality, sustainability, and youth empowerment, it addresses critical gaps and builds a foundation for lasting change. To support this inspiring journey, consider contributing through funding, technical assistance, or policy advocacy. Together, we can equip more young Sierra Leoneans with the tools to change the world. We Are UN Women.

1 of 5

View all

Press Release

28 September 2024

OHCHR Concludes One Day Regional Dialogue in Monrovia to enhance Human Rights advocacy and the fight against corruption

Monrovia, Liberia- 27 September 2024: OHCHR concluded a one-day regional dialogue on 25 September with recommendations for effective independence, collaboration, accountability, capacity building, and the setting up of regional networks of anti-corruption institutions, human rights commissions, and civil society organizations in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and beyond.Welcoming the participants, OHCHR's Representative in Liberia, Christian Mukosa, stated that the focus of the Dialogue, among other things, was to put in place strategies on how corruption's adverse effects on the enjoyment of human rights can be addressed collaboratively and to " seek opinions and best practices to have human rights and anti-corruption institutions actively participating in accountability mechanisms."UN Resident Coordinator Christine Umutoni commended OHCHR and other UN agencies for supporting the initiative, emphasizing the connection between corruption and human rights. "Therefore, strengthening national institutions and regional mechanisms is key to providing redress for victims and accountability for human rights violations, including economic and social rights," she stressed.In his keynote address, the Liberia Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh described the Dialogue as timely, allowing the two countries to exchange best practices and experiences. He pointed out that this was fundamental to empowering them to fight corruption and human rights, including enhancing advocacy on these critical issues. He concluded that "together we can forge a future in which the rights of every individual are fiercely protected and where corruption is not merely challenged but eradicated".Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission’s Executive Chairperson, Cllr. Alexandra Zoe, emphasized the need for an alignment of policies with international standards, strengthening the regional framework that 'binds us,' she noted. Sierra Leone's Deputy Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Augustine Ngobie, expressed his Commission's readiness to support the Liberian counterparts in enhancing its international standing in the fight against corruption.Victor Idrissa Lansana, Esq., Vice Chair of the Sierra Leone Human Rights Commission, stressed the crucial importance of human rights and urged OHCHR to expedite the establishment of a regional network. This network would significantly strengthen advocacy efforts and accountability in protecting human rights and fighting corruption and facilitate cross-border initiatives.The Chairperson of the Liberia Independent National Commission on Human Rights, Cllr. T. Dempster Brown encouraged his colleagues and the governement to intensify their efforts in fighting corruption and human rights violations. He also referenced the debate for establishing the War and Economic Crimes Courts in Liberia, reiterating the need for such to be established for justice to prevail.The Dialogue followed a one-week OHCHR-supported exchange visit to Sierra Leone conducted in May 2024 and co-led by the Chairs of the Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and the Independent National Commissionon Human Rights (INCHR) of Liberia. In addition to information about the then Special Court for Sierra Leone and its residual mechanism and the ongoing work of the anti-corruption court in Sierra Leone , participants learnt about the role of these integrity institutions in supporting accountability processes. The organization of the One-Day Dialogue in Monrovia was one of the recommendations from that fruitful visit.It is hoped that the lessons learned from the Dialogue will support the creation of a clear bridge between the two countries' Human Rights and Anti-Corruption Institutions, enhance the exchange of best practices and experiences, and lay the foundation for stronger cross-border collaboration."OHCHR will compile the outcomes of the recommendations, which will serve as the foundation for the next steps in our collective fight against corruption and in upholding human rights," said Christian Mukosa at the end of this important meeting. This commitment is a testament to the determination and resolve of the participating institutions.In addition to Commissioners and staff from the anti-corruption and human rights commissions in Liberia and Sierra Leone, other participants included members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of government entities and commissions, heads of UN agencies, lawyers, members of civil society organizations, and media practitioners.

1 of 5

Press Release

29 July 2024

United Nations in Sierra Leone launches six years Development Plan aligned with the Medium Term National Development Plan ( 2024-2030

Freetown, Monday, July 29: The United Nations in Sierra Leone launched its six-year Plan to support the development aspirations of the Government and people of Sierra Leone on Friday, July 26, at a symbolic signing ceremony at the Freetown International Conference Centre, Bintumani.The Plan, referred to as the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2025-2030, is a comprehensive framework that sets the strategic priorities for the partnership between the United Nations and the Government of Sierra Leone. It was launched by the Chief Minister, Dr David Moinina Sengeh, deputising the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Mr Julius Maada Bio.In her statement, United Nations Resident Coordinator Ms Seraphine Wakana emphasised that the colourful occasion, which was followed by an exhibition event highlighting the impact of the work of the 20 Agencies, Funds, and Programmes operating in the country, marked a significant landmark in the collective drive towards sustainable development, inclusive growth, and improved well-being for all citizens of Sierra Leone.She said these "have contributed to and will be guided by the priorities and principles outlined in this Framework over the coming six years," noting that Its development was a collective effort of the UN team, working in partnership with key Government and civil society partners, a testament to the inclusive nature of the process. “This collective effort ensures that everyone's voice is heard and considered in the development of the plan,” the Resident Coordinator said. She thanked the Government, particularly its primary coordination partner, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), Development Partners, Civil Society organisations, the private sector, women and youth organisations, and all those who contributed to shaping the cooperation framework, expressing deep appreciation for their invaluable contributions.The Resident Coordinator also said that the Cooperation Framework's vision on food security, access to services, development of human capital, inclusive governance, and environmental sustainability mirrored the big five game changers of the Government's Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024-2030), providing a strong reassurance of its relevance and are aligned with the UN Secretary General's six transitions ( (1) food systems; (2) energy access and affordability; (3) digital connectivity; (4) education; (5) jobs and social protection; and (6) climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution ) which aim to accelerate the implementation of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. This alignment ensures that the plan is in sync with the country's long-term development goals.In her goodwill message, MoPED Minister Ms Kenyeh Barlay noted that she was pleased that the process of developing the Cooperation Framework was very inclusive. It paid due attention to national systems, procedures and national development agenda. "Very significantly, it ensured that all stakeholders across all regions of Sierra Leone had their say in the priorities of the UN support to Sierra Leone over the next six years," she said, highlighting the transparent and inclusive nature of the process. Officially launching the Plan, Dr Moinina Sengeh said that the Cooperation Framework is not merely a document, but a testament to our collective aspirations and a roadmap to a future where every Sierra Leonean can thrive, emphasising that the inclusiveness in the drafting process ensured that the document truly reflected the needs and aspirations of Sierra Leoneans."What sets this document apart is its emphasis on local ownership, partnership and leaving no one behind. We recognise that sustainable development cannot be achieved through external support alone. It requires the active participation and leadership of Sierra Leoneans at all levels," he said.The Chief Minister also said that the government cherishes global partnerships and is ready to work with the United Nations System to deliver a cooperation framework for the betterment of our country.He also spoke about radical inclusion, transparency, data, results and accountability, stressing the need to support reliable data. In conclusion, he extended his heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the development of the Cooperation Framework.The symbolic signing at the ceremony attended by cabinet Ministers, Deputy Ministers, other government officials, development partners, Civil society organisations, local authorities, the private sector, and the media was done first between the Resident Coordinator and the MoPED Minister, and later by the Heads of Agencies of FAO, IOM, UNDP, WFP, UNOPS, UNIDO, UNAIDS IFAD and UNICEF.Other highlights at the impressive ceremony were a drama skit by the University of Sierra Leone Theatre Group, which creatively depicted the key elements of the new Cooperation Framework, and a vibrant cultural performance that celebrated the diversity and unity of Sierra Leone. These performances added a unique and engaging dimension to the event. The Plan will focus on three pillars:Food systems, natural resource management, and climate change.Human capital, essential services and employmentGovernance and economic transformationIt is now available for download on the UN Sierra Leone website: https://sierraleone.un.org/en/274732-united-nations-sustainable-development-cooperation-framework-2025-2030

1 of 5

Press Release

24 June 2024

Announcement of the UNOPS Africa Regional Director and Director for Ghana Multi-Country Office visit to Sierra Leonee

Announcement of the UNOPS Africa Regional Director and Director for Ghana Multi-Country Office Visit to Sierra LeoneThe Regional Director for Africa at the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), Ms Dalila Gonçalves and the Director for the UNOPS Ghana Multi-Country Office, Ms Ifeoma Charles-Monwuba has arrived on an official visit to the Republic of Sierra Leone from today 24 to 26 June 2024. The visit will include strategic discussions with key Government Ministers, in-line Ministries and development partners in Sierra Leone. Ms Gonçalves joined UNOPS in 2021 as Deputy Director for the Africa Region and became Director for the Africa Region in April 2024. Prior to joining UNOPS, she held several managerial roles in the private sector in Africa, including Aggreko in Southern and Central Africa, SGS in Angola, and Bureau Veritas in Angola and Mozambique. A Portuguese national, she holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial Engineering from Beira Interior University, Portugal. She also completed postgraduate courses at Columbia Business School in Leading Strategic Growth and Rutgers University in Managerial Excellence in Sales. She speaks English, French, and Portuguese and has working proficiency in Spanish.Her mission to Sierra Leone is to strategise and leverage with key partners on how UNOPS can continue supporting the Government of Sierra Leone and the Development Partners to achieve the national development priorities; focusing on the National Medium Term Development Plan and the Big Five Game-Changers for Transformative Development. During her visit, UNOPS senior officials will meet with Government and development partner representatives. Ms Gonçalves and Ms Monwuba will also visit the ongoing construction of the 1-MegaWatts Solar Energy Power Plant in Moyamba District. A project implemented by UNOPS on behalf of the Ministry of Energy, funded by the World Bank. UNOPS currently supports the Government of Sierra Leone in implementing a range of renewable energy, water management and governance projects. UNOPS also provides procurement services for health, transport and logistics to different ministries in Sierra Leone.

1 of 5

Press Release

05 December 2023

Secretary-General appoints Ms. Seraphine Wakana of Burundi as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sierra Leone.

The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Ms. Seraphine Wakana of Burundi as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sierra Leone, with the host Government’s approval. Ms. Wakana has more than 28 years of experience in coordination, political engagement, economics and development planning.

Prior to her current appointment, she had also served as the UN Resident Coordinator in the Gambia, where she led UN efforts in supporting the national development priorities of The Gambia to attain the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda. Under her leadership and guidance, the UN Country Team in the Gambia has provided technical support and strategic guidance through the different UN agencies operational in the country.

Prior to this appointment, Seraphine was UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Guinea (2014-2018). She was assigned as Senior Economist, Regional Office of the African Development Bank in the Democratic Republic of Congo (2010-2014) and she acted as the Bank's Resident Representative (2011-2012). From 2005-2010, Seraphine worked as an International Consultant with UNDP, the African Development Bank and the World Bank. She served at the same time as the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Korea in Burundi.

Seraphine was Minister of Development Planning and Reconstruction (2002-2005) and Chief of Staff with the same Ministry of the Government of Burundi (1997-1999). From 2000-2002, she worked as a Professional Researcher on poverty reduction, public-private sector interface and gender with the Burundi Economic Development Institute in Bujumbura. Seraphine held a series of executive positions with the Institute of Statistics and Economic and Social Studies of Burundi, including as Deputy Director (1996-1997), Head of the Statistical Processing Division (1990-1996) and Head of the Household Statistics Section (1987-1989).

Seraphine holds a Master’s degree in Development Economics from Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA and a Bachelor's degree in Economics and Administration from the University of Burundi, Bujumbura. https://unsdg.un.org/latest/announcements/secretary-general-appoints-ms-seraphine-wakana-burundi-united-nations-resident

1 of 5

Press Release

11 October 2023

UNOPS and UN Women campaign calls to empower rural women.

To mark International Rural Women’s Day, UNOPS and UN Women launched a social media campaign and events to call for action to empower women in rural areas so they be better equipped to contribute to food security and climate change adaptation in their communities.
● From 9 October to 15 October (International Rural Women’s Day), UNOPS and UN Women across Africa will be sharing messages on social media and hosting events in different African cities such as Harare (Zimbabwe), Freetown (Sierra Leone), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Kinshasa (DRC) and Juba (South Sudan), among others.
● The joint campaign aims to promote the role rural women play in supporting their households in achieving food security, generating income, improving rural livelihoods, and building climate change resilience.
● In Freetown, Sierra Leone, UNOPS and UN Women will be having a panel discussion and exclusive interview on radio and TV on the empowerment of rural women and their role in climate change and food security, infrastructure development and challenges.
Freetown, Sierra Leone, 08 October 2023 ― UNOPS and UN Women are marking International Rural Women’s Day by launching a joint campaign to underline the contribution of rural women to development in Africa and highlight the importance of investing in gender-sensitive infrastructure that will allow them to better contribute to food
security and climate adaptation.
The objective of the campaign is to call policy and decision-makers, societies, and international partners to action in supporting gender-responsive infrastructure in Africa that can empower rural women to access productive resources and opportunities, accelerate their socio-economic mobility, and boost gender contribution to climate adaptation and food security.

The campaign will include joint activities in several African countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan and Zimbabwe, among others. These events will be supported by a social media campaign in UNOPS and UN Women regional and national channels in Africa.
On 13th October, UN Women Africa and UNOPS Africa will be hosting a live conversation, where stakeholders ―including a woman from an African rural area and a specialized journalist― will highlight the importance of addressing persistent gender gaps in the response to climate change and food insecurity.
In Freetown, Sierra Leone, UNOPS and UN Women will be having a panel discussion and exclusive interview on radio and TV on the empowerment of rural women and their role in climate change and food security, infrastructure development and current challenges. UNOPS Director a.i. for Africa Region, Dalila Gonçalves, said: “Gender-blind infrastructure limits women’s access to financial resources, land, education, health, and other rights and opportunities. Also, it limits their capacity for coping with and adapting to climate change impacts. Women can play an active role as change-makers and educators in embedding sustainability within different infrastructure sectors. Supporting the empowerment of rural women through gender-responsive infrastructure, UNOPS helps low and middle-income countries across Africa in their journey toward the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals.”
UN Women Regional Director for East and Southern Africa and Regional Director a.i for West and Central Africa, Dr. Maxime Houinato, said: “Rural African women's pivotal role in bolstering regional economies and combating poverty is irrefutable. Yet, they grapple with pronounced challenges in securing vital agricultural resources, restricting their agricultural productivity and impacting their adaptability to climate change. UN Women studies reveal that gender disparities in agriculture have a direct impact on the economic growth of countries ranging from 13 to 28 per cent of GDP, equivalent to annually elevating 80,000 to 238,000 individuals above the poverty line per country. It's imperative that we advance programmes and policies that increase financing for rural women’s access to
labour and time-saving equipment and services, fostering gender equality and improving rural women’s economic security."
According to UN Women, women make up more than 50 percent of Africa’s population and 80 percent of them reside in rural areas. The International Labour Organization states that giving women the same opportunities as men could raise agricultural production by 2.5 to 4 percent in the poorest regions and reduce the number of malnourished people by 12 to 17 percent.
The UNOPS Report, ‘Infrastructure for gender equality and the empowerment of women’, stated that in rural areas, inadequate infrastructure services disproportionately affect women’s time use because they bear the burden of household tasks, like collecting water and firewood, cooking, cleaning, and providing childcare. This limits the time available for pursuing educational, economic, or social activities. Women also face disadvantages when it comes to land and livestock ownership or equal pay, which hamper their productivity and growth, resulting in weak rural economies and impacting the local and global food systems and climate adaptation capacity.

1 of 5

View all