Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has called for action to protect and empower women. She made the call during the launch of the public transport reforms and fifty new buses in Freetown under the Integrated Urban Mobility Project in Sierra Leone.
The Project aims to address the challenges faced in the transportation systems within the country. The project introduced various initiatives, including traffic lights, pedestrian bridges, and the addition of 50 new buses to improve urban mobility.
During the launch of these initiatives, Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh emphasised the importance of local responsibility. Encouraging citizens to take ownership of the improved public transport system, he highlighted the need for collective efforts in maintaining and utilising these resources effectively.
This call for responsibility underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a sense of community involvement and accountability in shaping the transportation landscape of Sierra Leone.
The First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, delivered a compassionate plea that addressed several critical issues. Her speech highlighted the significance of the reforms, particularly focusing on women’s safety and empowerment.
She emphasised the prevalence of sexual harassment faced by women during their daily commutes and expressed her delight over the installation of CCTV cameras in the new buses, which serves as a crucial measure to prevent such harassment.
The implementation of these safety measures reflects a commitment to creating a secure environment for women and the physically challenged using public transportation.
Her address underscored the importance of accessibility and affordability in public transportation. By introducing 50 new buses, the government aims to lower transportation charges, making it more feasible for individuals, especially women, to multitask between essential locations such as schools, markets and hospitals. This initiative aligns with the goal of empowering women by providing them with increased mobility and access to vital services.
The First Lady also highlighted the positive impact of the new buses on employment opportunities for women. The introduction of these buses not only improves transportation services but also creates job opportunities for women as drivers, mechanics, and monitors.
This aspect of the reform aligns with efforts to promote gender equality and economic empowerment by offering diverse roles within the public transport sector.
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio concluded her statement by calling on all citizens to embrace peace and unity as essential components for national progress. Her message emphasised the collective responsibility of every individual to foster a harmonious society and move forward as a united nation.
