Sierra Leone Shares GBV Response Experience with Visiting Namibian Delegation
The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs has welcomed a high-level delegation from Namibia to Sierra Leone for a South-South Learning Exchange Forum focused on the Gender-Based Violence Information Management System Plus (GBVIMS+).
The delegation arrived in Freetown on 2 November 2026 to learn from Sierra Leone’s experience in implementing the system and strengthening responses to gender-based violence (GBV).
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Head of Delegation commended Sierra Leone’s efforts in promoting gender equality, child protection and improved GBV response services, expressing confidence that the visit would provide valuable lessons for Namibia.
The Minister highlighted the importance of international cooperation in preventing and responding to gender-based violence. She explained that Sierra Leone’s legal, policy and institutional frameworks, supported by GBVIMS+, have improved data management, service coordination, case referrals and evidence-based decision-making.
She stressed that the system goes beyond data collection, as it helps shape policies, strengthen interventions and improve services for survivors, while ensuring their confidentiality, dignity and safety.
The Minister also acknowledged the contributions of the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Social Welfare, United Nations agencies, civil society organisations, development partners and service providers, particularly the Rainbo Initiative and Commit and Act Foundation, in supporting the system’s implementation.
She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working with partners to improve coordination, accountability and survivor-centred services, expressing hope that the exchange would strengthen cooperation between Sierra Leone and Namibia and support efforts to address gender-based violence across Africa.
The visit reflects both countries’ shared commitment to strengthening the protection of women, girls, children and other vulnerable groups from violence, exploitation and abuse.
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