Seraphine Wakana’s Goodwill message at the World Day for the prevention of and healing from child sexual exploitation and violence

With barely a week to the commencement of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, a key international moment to call for an end to violence against women and girls, I am pleased to join you here at the Milton Margai Technical University, Goderich branch today as we commemorate the World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation and Violence. 

Acknowledgements

Firstly, I wish to extend my gratitude to Her Excellency the First Lady for the invitation and for championing the designation of November 18 as a global day dedicated to addressing child sexual exploitation and supporting survivors. Your leadership has been pivotal in Sierra Leone’s efforts to tackle these issues, ensuring the protection and development of our children.

Our continued joint commitment and partnership are vital and there are still many challenges to be addressed.

Ladies and gentlemen, today's event reflects our shared commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of every child in Sierra Leone and beyond. We stand united in recognizing the devastating impact that child sexual exploitation and violence have on children, families, and societies. These violations rob children of their innocence, their sense of safety, and often their future. They are not just crimes against individuals but an affront to humanity's collective conscience.

In Sierra Leone, while we face many challenges, there have been significant advancements. Persisting social norms that condone violence, limited enforcement resources, and inaccessibility in rural areas remain obstacles. Nonetheless, substantial foundational results and progress that we can leverage on have been achieved. Allow me to mention just a few :

• Legislative and Policy Initiatives: The declaration of rape as a national emergency and intensified penalties for offenders.
• Institutional Strengthening: The establishment of Family Support Units within the Sierra Leone Police and Sexual Offences Model Courts to expedite justice.
• Community Advocacy: The impactful "Hands Off Our Girls" Campaign.
• Support Services to survivors: Initiatives like the One Stop Centres and Rainbo Centres recorded support for 2,763 survivors in 2023 alone.
• Education and  Women Empowerment: Efforts in free quality education and robust data collection enhance our approach.

Despite these efforts, the prevalence of gender-based violence experienced by 62% of women aged 15–49 indicates the need for ongoing systemic change and rigorous law enforcement.

The United Nations remains fully committed. 

The United Nations remains steadfast in its support of the government and the people of Sierra Leone as we work together to ensure that no child is left behind. This commitment is embedded in our Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2025-2030), which is aligned with the national development agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals.  We are exceptionally inspired by the resilience of survivors who bravely share their stories, reminding us of the urgency to act. Let their courage fuel our determination to create a world where every child grows up free from fear and harm.

Conclusion : 

As we mark this day, let us renew our commitment to a future where children can thrive in safe and nurturing environments. Remember that every step to protect a child is toward building a more just and compassionate society.

Together, with your support and commitment, we can end child sexual exploitation and violence. Together, we can heal.

Thank you