New UNICEF Chief Meets Gender Minister, Pledges Stronger Support for Children

Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, has welcomed UNICEF’s newly appointed Country Representative to Sierra Leone, Ms. Mariko Kagoshima, during a courtesy visit aimed at strengthening collaboration on child protection and the promotion of children’s rights.

The meeting, held in Freetown on Monday, 3 August 2026, focused on reinforcing the longstanding partnership between the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs and UNICEF, while exploring new opportunities to improve the welfare, protection, and development of children across Sierra Leone.

Welcoming Ms. Kagoshima, Dr. Mahoi expressed gratitude for UNICEF’s unwavering support to the Government of Sierra Leone, particularly its contributions to strengthening child protection systems and advancing initiatives that safeguard the rights and well-being of children.

The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with UNICEF to ensure that every child in Sierra Leone is protected, supported, and provided with opportunities to grow and reach their full potential.

In her remarks, Ms. Kagoshima congratulated Dr. Mahoi on her leadership and commended the Ministry’s efforts in promoting children’s rights and creating a safer environment where children can thrive.

She also reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting the Government of Sierra Leone through programmes and initiatives that deliver meaningful and sustainable outcomes for children and their communities.

The meeting concluded with both the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs and UNICEF reaffirming their shared commitment to deepening cooperation in advancing child protection, promoting children’s rights, and building a safer, more inclusive future for every child in Sierra Leone.