LAWERS HoldS AGM to Tackle SGBV
On September 20, 2024, the Legal Access Through Women Yearning for Equality Rights and Social Justice (LAWYERS) hosted its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Freetown City Council Auditorium, focusing on the theme “Ending Sexual and Gender-Based Violence: A Collective and Communal Responsibility.” The event gathered LAWYERS members and partners to discuss strategies for addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
Vice President Florence Taylor-Young highlighted the pervasive impact of SGBV on communities, emphasizing the need for collective action and education on the issue. She stated, “The importance of addressing SGBV cannot be over-emphasized, given its prevalence in every aspect of our society.”
Representing the Attorney General, Senior State Counsel Thomas Joe Freeman noted that SGBV transcends borders and affects women and girls of all backgrounds. He emphasized that the issue threatens societal stability, health, and prosperity, impacting entire families and communities.
Madam Marian Goodie Sowonie, Director of Gender and Children’s Affairs, reminded attendees that Sierra Leone is committed to international agreements protecting women’s rights. Despite these commitments, the incidence of SGBV remains high. Gbangay Kanu, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Social Welfare, reinforced the need for collaborative efforts across all sectors to combat SGBV effectively.
Lawyer Lizandra Washington-Kargbo, representing the Legal Aid Board, reiterated the board’s commitment to providing legal services to vulnerable women and children affected by SGBV.
Keynote speaker Haja Marie Bob-Kandeh emphasized the need for better implementation of existing laws and called for a community-centered approach, including guidance and counseling beyond educational institutions.
Former Sierra Leone Bar Association President Madam Rhoda Sufian-Kargbo, who chaired the event, acknowledged the challenges in addressing SGBV but encouraged continued efforts to identify gaps and make progress.
Treasurer Yeawoma Abdul-Shereef highlighted LAWYERS’ pro bono services for SGBV cases and emphasized the need for collaboration with partners like the Police, government institutions, and the Rainbo Initiative.
Founded on February 14, 1997, LAWYERS is a network of female lawyers committed to promoting and protecting women’s and girls’ rights in Sierra Leone. The organization offers free legal advice and representation on various issues, including sexual and domestic violence, and actively campaigns against discrimination.
