AYV News, June 9, 2026
A new assessment by the Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) has revealed that Sierra Leone continuesto face significant challenges in reducing physical and sexual violence against women and children, despite ongoing government efforts and legislative interventions.
The findings, contained in the latest Salone Development Scorecard, indicate that cases of gender-based violence remain alarmingly high across the country.
According to the report, the Rainbo Centres recorded 3,053 cases of physical and sexual assault in 2025, while the Sierra Leone Police reported 15,188 cases involving women and children, representing 45 percent of all crimes reported nationwide.
Presenting the scorecard, Dr. Fredline M’Cormack-Hale said the figures suggest that the government’s target of significantly reducing physical and sexual assault cases may be difficult to achieve within the current administration’s tenure.
The report also highlighted growing concerns over adolescent pregnancy. According to the scorecard, 22 percent of girls between the ages of 15 and 19 became pregnant in 2025, an increase from 17.2 percent recorded in 2024. The report attributes the trend largely to economic hardship and low household income.
Despite the challenges, the scorecard noted progress in gender inclusion and women’s participation in governance. Women currently hold 30 per cent of seats in Parliament, 33 per cent of Cabinet positions, and 41 per cent of Deputy Ministerial appointments.
The report further observed that while most Ministries, Departments and Agencies now have gender focal persons or gender desks, the full establishment of dedicated gender units as required under the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act has yet to be completed.
IGR emphasised the need for stronger interventions to address gender-based violence, protect vulnerable groups, and improve social and economic opportunities for women and girls across Sierra Leone.
The Salone Development Scorecard serves as a monitoring tool designed to track government performance on key manifesto commitments and provide citizens with an opportunity to assess progress in national development.
