The Archdoicese of Freetown, in Collaboration with Caritas Freetown, Launches New Project to Tackle Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Using a Socio-Pastoral Approach
The Archdoicese of Freetown in collaboration with Caritas Freetown launched the project “Together for Equality: Socio-Pastoral Approach in Preventing and Responding to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Catholic Parishes and Institutions of Learning in the Archdoicese of Freetown” at St. Mary’s Home, River No. 2. The project, implemented by Caritas Freetown and owned by the Archdiocese of Freetown, aims to prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence in Catholic parishes and institutions of learning within the Archdiocese. The launch served as an orientation for the proposed project staff and laid out plans for the official start in October 2024. The project is specifically designed to tackle SGBV using a socio-pastoral approach, emphasizing dialogue and engagement with small Christian communities in the Archdoicese of Freetown. Its goal is to raise awareness about the evils of SGBV, particularly targeting key agents of socialization, including families, churches, and schools. The initiative will cover 16 parishes, 35 educational institutions, three hospitals, and 500 households across the Archdiocese of Freetown. Additionally, 160 volunteers from 16 parishes will be engaged to assist in the project’s implementation. A crucial component of the project is the inclusion of interfaith dialogue between Muslim and Christian religious leaders, allowing them to work together in spreading the message about the dangers of SGBV within their respective communities. Given the strong influence of religion in society, this approach is expected to foster a more united and comprehensive response to the issue. During the launch, Mr. Edward John Bull, the project launch facilitator, presented an overview of the project’s objectives, expected outcomes, the theory of change, and the monitoring and evaluation framework. He emphasized that this socio-pastoral approach is critical because it differs from the traditional socio-legal response to SGBV, which often focuses on the incarceration of perpetrators. According to Bull, such punitive measures can sometimes lead to further societal conflict, whereas a more rehabilitative and dignified approach is essential in addressing both victims and perpetrators, as perpetrators themselves are often victims of dysfunctional societal structures. By promoting respectful treatment of both victims and offenders, the “Together for Equality” project aims to contribute to lasting change within the community, addressing the root causes of SGBV and fostering a more peaceful and understanding environment.
Caritas Freetown, CRS and partners commemorates Internationl Day of Peace.
“Cultavting a Culture of Peace” is the theme for the 2024 International day of Peace. In collaboration with the Independent Commission for Peace and Natioanl Cohesion, CRS and Caritas actively participated in the series of events organised by the Commision.On the 21st day of Septmeber, a Peace walk across the major streets of Freetown to preach the message of Peace and to cultivate a culture of peace was hugely successful with active participation from CRS and Caritas. The commemoration was also continued by a Town Hall Symposium at the Bintumani International Conference centre where all partners and key players in peace and nationl Cohesion were present. Stements to cultivate a Culture of Peace and national cohesin were intrinsic across all messages delivered by the different speakers. As September is declared Peace month by the Peace Commission, CRS, Caritas, and it partners will continue to observe the month through different activities under the United Nations Peace Buiding Fund Youth in Politics and Peace Building Project.
Caritas Freetown Launches Soup Kitchen Initiative to Combat Hunger
Freetown, Sierra Leone – September 26– Caritas Freetown, with generous support from the Maga Foundation, officially launched its inaugural Soup Kitchen today, aimed at providing nutritious meals to those in need within the western urban area. This initiative seeks to offer quality food to individuals regardless of their social status, ensuring that no one goes hungry. The Soup Kitchen’s first day was a resounding success, serving a total of 197 individuals with a hearty meal of rice and beans. The initiative is designed to cater to a diverse group of beneficiaries, including struggling businesspeople, elderly individuals facing starvation, visually impaired beggars, and schoolchildren in need of nourishment. In a unique twist, the meals served at the Soup Kitchen are prepared by trainees from Caritas’s Hospitality Project, which is also supported by the Maga Foundation in Spain. This project focuses on recruiting and training at-risk young women, providing them with essential skills and opportunities in the hospitality industry. The trainees will prepare meals for the Soup Kitchen once a week, creating a sustainable cycle of support and empowerment. Reverend Fr. Peter Konteh, Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, emphasized the importance of action in demonstrating love, stating, “Love is not just words but action. Caritas means love in action.” He expressed gratitude for the partnerships that make such initiatives possible. Among the volunteers was Gerald Hatler, who passionately served the meals to the hungry, embodying the spirit of compassion that the Soup Kitchen represents. The initiative aims to provide meals once a week, with the goal of feeding anyone who falls within the designated categories of need. Project Manager Isatu Sidibay expressed her pride and excitement at the turnout, noting the gratitude from beneficiaries who reported that the food was delicious. She extended her heartfelt thanks to the Maga Foundation for their generous support in making this initiative a reality. Caritas Freetown’s Soup Kitchen marks a significant step in addressing hunger in the community, and the organization looks forward to continuing this vital service to those in need. Fifty-six-year-old Aminata Kamara shared her heartfelt story of struggle and hope after benefiting from the newly launched Soup Kitchen initiative by Caritas Freetown. For some time, Aminata had faced significant challenges in finding food to eat, often feeling desperate and hungry. While wandering near the Youyi building, she was informed by some children about the soup kitchen serving meals for the hungry. This news felt like a ray of hope in her darkest moments, as she realized that help was available for those in need. Expressing her profound gratitude, Aminata thanked the donors and volunteers who made the soup kitchen possible. “Your kindness has made a difference in my life and the lives of many others who are struggling like I am,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. As she received her meal, she took a moment to pray for those who contributed to the initiative, wishing blessings upon them for their compassion and support. Aminata’s story highlights the critical impact of community support and the importance of initiatives like the Soup Kitchen in addressing hunger and food insecurity in Freetown. Breakdown of Beneficiaries197 beneficiaries (Men 72, Women 50, Boys 35, Girls 40)