Training of trainers workshop on Leadership and Peace Education
In a bid to put their newfound knowledge into action, young beneficiaries from Kolleh Town and Brookfields have taken up the mantle of training their peers following a rigorous two-day Training of Trainers (TOT) Workshop organized by Caritas Freetown. The workshop focused on Civic and Peace Education Training, aiming to equip participants with essential leadership skills and an understanding of civic responsibilities. Eliza Sillah, in providing an overview of the workshop, highlighted that the training encompassed leadership, civic education and peace-building concepts. Participants were furnished with a comprehensive manual to aid them in effectively disseminating the acquired knowledge to others in their communities. The primary objectives of the training included fostering an understanding of leadership dynamics, familiarizing participants with civic principles and elucidating the role of young people in democracy. She emphasized that the manual was meticulously crafted to guide Facilitators in conducting participatory workshops on leadership, civic education, and peace-building. Alisha Dumbuya, a Facilitator from the Brookfields Community, underscored the significance of imparting knowledge gained from the workshop to fellow youth. She noted that while their community had maintained peace, many lacked awareness of their civic rights and responsibilities, as well as criteria for selecting capable leaders. Similarly, Sama Pessima, another Facilitator from Kolleh Town, expressed optimism about spreading the acquired knowledge to a wider audience. He stressed the importance of empowering fellow youth with the skills necessary for constructive civic engagement. Alhaji Yellow Mansaray, a stakeholder from Brookfields, lauded the workshop for enlightening participants on leadership qualities and selection criteria. He pledged to serve as an ambassador, sharing the insights gained with others in the community. Mariatu Turay, a youth participant from Kolleh Town, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn about rights, responsibilities, and leadership criteria. She commended her peers for their dedication and thanked Caritas Freetown for facilitating the transformative training. The training sessions culminated in group activities and presentations, demonstrating participants’ understanding and commitment. They lauded Caritas Freetown for the timely initiative and expressed hope for continued collaboration in the future.
Community Engagement in Makorbeh Community Empowers Men and Boys on how to Combat Gender-Based Violence
In a concerted effort to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV), a collaborative project titled “Strengthening Behavioral Change on SGBV Prevention; Promoting Access to Justice and Hygiene Education for Vulnerable Women and Girls in the Western Area Rural” convened an engaging session on April 19, 2024, in the Makorbeh community of Songo village, located in the Western Rural Area. In partnership with the Sierra Leone Police, Family Support Unit (FSU) and the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, alongside support from Manos Unidas, the project aimed to raise awareness among men and boys regarding their crucial roles in combatting SGBV at the grassroots level. The session commenced with an overview of the project’s objectives and a recap of previous sessions, during which participants showcased their application of knowledge gained. The Ministry of Gender and Childern’s Affairs representative, Mr. Ahmed Turay, underscored the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, elucidating the ministry’s role in addressing SGBV issues, legal frameworks, available services, and referral pathways. Subsequently, the Caritas Freetown, Justice and Peace Commission facilitator, Mr. Andrew Kponeh, delved into discussions on challenging gender stereotypes and violence, fostering an interactive environment where participants posed questions, offered insights, and engaged with one another. The impact of community engagement was key as attendees expressed deep appreciation for the newfound awareness, pledging to uphold respect and love in their interactions with spouses and children. Community leaders and participants alike vowed to disseminate these essential messages to wider audiences, ensuring sustained progress in combating SGBV. In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of stakeholders underscored a significant step forward in empowering communities to tackle GBV effectively. By equipping men and boys with knowledge and fostering dialogue, initiatives like these are pivotal in fostering lasting behavioral change and promoting gender equality.
Caritas Sierra Leone Freetown, with funding from the UNPBF and in partnership with CRS, organized a two-day awareness raising session on April 11th and 12th, 2024.
Caritas Sierra Leone Freetown, with funding from the UNPBF and in partnership with CRS, organized a two-day awareness raising session on April 11th and 12th, 2024. The session took place at the Western Area Rural District Council Hall in Waterloo and aimed to educate 200 participants from various project groups. The objectives included informing participants about laws protecting women’s rights, available support services for abused or violated women, promoting gender equality and empowerment, encouraging reporting of violence against women, and creating a supportive environment for accessing resources. L.A.W.Y.E.R.S. facilitated the sessions, with co-facilitation from the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, using their manual.