AYV News, June 13, 2025
Seeking to strengthen partnerships that advance the empowerment of young girls and women across Sierra Leone, the Women’s Forum paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Youth Affairs, Hon. Ibrahim Sannoh. The delegation was led by the Forum’s President, Madam Sally Ndimawa Adams, who showcased their achievements and ongoing impact in communities nationwide.
Madam Adams highlighted the “She Leads Project” as one of the Forum’s flagship initiatives, an empowering platform that equips young girls with leadership skills, confidence, and a voice in national conversations. She expressed a strong desire for collaboration with the Ministry, emphasizing the mutual benefits of working together to expand the reach and impact of such projects.
She also noted that the once-thriving internship exchange between the Ministry and the Women’s Forum had stalled over time, urging Minister Sannoh to restore this valuable opportunity for young people, particularly young women.
Minister Ibrahim Sannoh welcomed the Forum’s outreach and praised their dedication to nurturing the potential of young women. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to partnering with grassroots organizations that are reshaping lives and communities.
“The work of the Women’s Forum speaks volumes. We are ready to explore avenues of collaboration, especially through key initiatives like the Youth Parliament and the MRU Youth Conekt Parliament,” the Minister stated.
He assured the Forum that internship placements will resume through the National Youth Service, providing young women with renewed access to professional development and public service experience.
Minister Sannoh also announced a bold and inclusive policy direction, 70% of all Ministry-led interventions will be women-led, with 5% dedicated to persons with disabilities. This, he emphasized, reflects the Ministry’s commitment to gender equity and social inclusion.
“This isn’t just policy; it’s a declaration of intent. Women must not only be part of the conversation, they must lead it,” Minister Sannoh affirmed.
Both the Ministry and the Women’s Forum expressed optimism for a future grounded in mutual support and shared vision. A proposal outlining areas of collaboration is expected to be submitted soon.
The renewed dialogue between the Women’s Forum and the Ministry signals a progressive shift toward inclusive governance and offers renewed hope for young girls striving to rise, lead, and shape Sierra Leone’s future.
