The Family Support Unit (FSU) of the Sierra Leone Police and Rainbo Initiatives have recently held a strategic meeting at Rainbo’s headquarters in Freetown to enhance the harmonization of medical reporting procedures for cases of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
The gathering was attended by key stakeholders, including Daniel Kettor, Director of Rainbo Initiatives; Superintendent Mohamed S.Y. Mansaray, Head of the FSU; and Abu Backarr Kanu, Operations Officer, alongside other officials.
The main objective was to develop a standardized and efficient system for endorsing medical forms related to sexual and physical assault, including age assessments.
Superintendent Mansaray emphasized that the initiative aims to address communication gaps between medical practitioners and law enforcement, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and timely documentation in SGBV cases.
Superintendent Mansaray also highlighted the challenges caused by fragmented and inconsistent medical reporting formats, which often lead to delays in investigations and compromise case integrity. He noted that a standardized approach would facilitate better collaboration between healthcare providers and police investigators, ultimately strengthening case processing and survivor support.
The stakeholders underscored the importance of maintaining confidentiality, especially in cases involving minors. They proposed expanding stakeholder engagement to include the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), the Chief Justice, and other relevant entities to ensure that legal and ethical standards are upheld.
In addition, there was consensus on the need for targeted training programs for medical personnel, police officers, prosecutors, and judiciary staff. Workshops focusing on the effective use of the new reporting format and fostering inter-agency cooperation in managing SGBV cases were also discussed.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to draft a unified reporting template and to organize collaborative training sessions. A follow-up meeting, which will include representatives from the Judiciary, DPP, FSU, and Rainbo Initiatives, is planned to finalize the harmonization framework.
“This partnership is a significant step forward in strengthening our national response to SGBV,” said Superintendent Mansaray.
“Through improved coordination and standardized reporting, we can provide better justice and support for survivors,” he added.
