Freetown: The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) on Monday hosted a high-level delegation led by the Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, to discuss the implementation of the Freetown Caring City Project, which aims to support caregivers, particularly women and girls, in vulnerable communities.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the meeting, held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Freetown, focused on strengthening support systems for unpaid caregivers through improved access to healthcare, education, social welfare services, safe spaces, and economic opportunities. The initiative also seeks to reduce the risks of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and other forms of physical violence affecting women and girls.
Welcoming the delegation, MoGCA Chief Director Charles Vandi introduced senior ministry officials in attendance, including Deputy Directors Bamie J. Sesay and Mrs. Hannah Lahai Robinson, as well as Assistant Directors Foday Sesay and Laura Koroma.
During the engagement, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr delivered a detailed presentation on the project, noting that it is funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and forms part of a broader international urban development agenda, with Sierra Leone serving as one of the focal countries for implementation.
She explained that the project is designed to support unpaid caregivers by expanding access to social protection, healthcare, and welfare services, especially for women who play essential caregiving roles within their households and communities.
According to the Mayor, Susan’s Bay has been identified as the primary implementation area under a key project component known as ‘The Care Block.’ Planned interventions include the establishment of safe learning spaces, computer literacy programmes, and financial inclusion opportunities aimed at empowering women and girls in the community.
Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, joined ministry officials in welcoming the delegation and commended the Mayor and her team for what she described as a timely and impactful initiative.
Dr. Mahoi highlighted the importance of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, noting that it was enacted to address inequalities affecting women, including access to financial services, leadership opportunities, and participation in decision-making processes. She added that the Ministry continues to work closely with various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to advance women’s empowerment and gender equity nationwide.
Commending the Freetown Caring City Project, Dr. Mahoi described the initiative as a significant step toward supporting vulnerable women and caregivers at the grassroots level.
The meeting concluded with a group photograph, symbolising unity, collaboration, and a strengthened commitment to inclusive urban development and women’s empowerment.