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.
