Freetown, Sierra Leone – The Justice Sector Coordination Office (JSCO), in collaboration with The Carter Center, convened a high-level review meeting with justice sector stakeholders to assess the implementation of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, 2022. The discussions, held at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, reaffirmed a collective commitment to building a gender-responsive and inclusive justice system in Sierra Leone.
The event brought together senior representatives from key institutions, including the Sierra Leone Judiciary, the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, the Office of the Ombudsman, the Human Rights Commission, the Law Reform Commission, the Anti-Corruption Commission, and prominent civil society organizations such as L.A.W.Y.E.R.S and Advocaid.
Assessing Progress and Identifying Challenges
JSCO Coordinator Mr. Shahid M. Korjie highlighted the strategic importance of the GEWE Act within the Justice Sector Reform Strategy (2024–2030), particularly its alignment with efforts to enhance adherence to human rights and the rule of law. He emphasized ongoing initiatives across 17 justice institutions, including strengthening responses to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and promoting gender-sensitive practices.
The Carter Center’s Project Coordinator, Mr. Jalloh, presented key findings from the Gender Diagnostic Study conducted under the Center’s Gender Equality and Rights (GEAR) Project. While originally focused on magistrate courts, stakeholders urged broader research encompassing all judicial levels.
Representing the Hon. Chief Justice, Justice Alusine Sesay (JSC), alongside Justices Bintu Alhadi, Tonia Barnette, and Simeone Alieu, reiterated the Judiciary’s long-standing commitment to gender parity. Justice Sesay emphasized Sierra Leone’s achievement in appointing a female Chief Justice, even as other countries continue to grapple with gender disparities in judicial leadership.
Key Developments and Remaining Challenges
While institutional policies reflect a commitment to gender equality, challenges persist, including gaps in awareness, training, and public confidence in justice delivery. The Ombudsman, Tejan Ahmed Israel Jah Esq., pointed out that many gender-related complaints stem from administrative lapses rather than outright discrimination, advocating for a deeper review of workplace policies.
Despite financial constraints, stakeholders noted significant progress. The Judiciary has established a Communications Directorate to improve public awareness, and the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs confirmed that GEWE Act regulations have been submitted to Parliament for approval. Additionally, security forces, including the Sierra Leone Police, Fire Force, and Military, have developed gender policies aligned with the Act.
Civil society organizations continue to play a pivotal role in gender mainstreaming efforts. AVOCAID and other advocacy groups have been instrumental in capacity-building initiatives to promote equitable access to justice.
Roadmap for Implementation
Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, stressed the urgency of translating policies into action. “For every law passed, it is the justice sector that breathes life into it. Lack of resources cannot be an excuse for inaction,” she stated.
Key recommendations from the review included revising institutional policies for gender sensitivity, expanding public awareness initiatives, and ensuring regular monitoring of GEWE Act implementation. The Carter Center reaffirmed its continued support, with Associate Director Ms. Kari Machey emphasizing that gender equality requires systemic transformation within the justice sector.
As the review meeting concluded, stakeholders reaffirmed their dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable justice system that reflects the rights and needs of all Sierra Leoneans. JSCO and its partners pledged to advance collaborative efforts to transform policy into tangible outcomes for women and girls across the country.