By SKS
A United Nations-supported project in Sierra Leone has made significant strides in promoting inclusive participation, surpassing its outreach goals and enabling thousands of youth, women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) to actively engage in civic dialogue, peacebuilding, and community development.
This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16—Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions—which strives to foster peaceful, inclusive societies and ensure equitable access to justice and governance.
According to the Project Director, Youth in Politics and Peacebuilding fund, Fatmata Bangura, the project reached 6,308 youth—exceeding its target of 5,220 by 102%. Similarly, it engaged 6,391 women out of a targeted 6,384, and 1,078 PWDs—close to the goal of 1,160. These numbers reflect a remarkable level of community engagement and empowerment.
Lamin Mansaray from Kolleh Community shared how the project transformed his outlook: “I’ve learned so much from this initiative. It has changed how I see society—especially the importance of women having a voice alongside men. I now understand that everyone’s opinion matters, and we all must work together for peace.”
Alysha, a young woman from Brookfields, expressed her newfound sense of responsibility: “Initially, I only thought about my rights as a citizen. But through this project, I’ve learned about my duties too. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to my community and understand my role in building a better Sierra Leone.”
Jane Kamara, a visually impaired youth and President of a Women’s Group in Monkey Bush, Waterloo, celebrated her active participation: “Before this project, young people like me weren’t consulted on community development issues. Now, we are part of the decision-making process. We talk to political leaders, ask questions, and contribute ideas. It’s empowering.”
She also highlighted her role in peacebuilding: “Monkey Bush was once known for riots, but that has changed. Our outreach on peace mediation has helped us restore calm, and now Waterloo is peaceful. We’ve contributed to this transformation.”
Jane further shared her pride in fostering harmony between political parties: “Waterloo was a red zone in the past, but through this project, we’ve created peace among different groups. Our community is now united, and that’s a success we all share.”
Funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund, the two-year project (March 2023 – June 2025), with a three-month extension, aimed to strengthen social cohesion by promoting dialogue among women, youth, and PWDs at both community and national levels.
The project’s success, according to Bangura, owes much to the formation of community-based women’s and youth groups, which serve as platforms for advocacy and empowerment.
Bangura, the Project Director, explained that these groups have enabled participants to voice concerns, propose solutions, and influence decision-making processes.
Speaking on behalf of the UN Family in Sierra Leone, Irene Limo, UN Peacebuilding Fund Secretariat Coordinator, encouraged all participants to make the most of the skills and knowledge they have gained through this impactful project. She emphasized that these new capacities are vital tools for fostering sustainable peace, social cohesion, and inclusive development within their communities.
Irene also reaffirmed the UN’s unwavering commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s peacebuilding efforts, pledging continued partnership and resources to empower local communities, strengthen governance, and build a more peaceful and resilient nation for all.
Jeanne Ella Andrianambinina, Country Representative of CRS Sierra Leone, highlighted the transformative effect: “The impact is tangible and life-changing for Sierra Leonean youth and marginalized groups. They now have the confidence and skills to participate meaningfully in governance and peacebuilding efforts.” She pledged continued support, emphasizing the importance of youth-driven change.
The Director of Caritas in Bo also commended the initiative: “This project has fostered greater inclusion of youth and PWDs in governance. It has empowered them to mitigate conflicts and build social cohesion across the country.”
Lessons in Inclusivity and Community Engagement
Lessons learned underscore the importance of inclusive participation from project inception through implementation. Safe spaces were created for young people, women, and PWDs to voice their opinions and contribute ideas, fostering a sense of ownership and unity.
The project’s community-level advocacy platforms have proven vital for sustaining peace and promoting active citizenship. Beneficiaries like Jane Kamara exemplify how inclusive approaches can lead to meaningful change, transforming community dynamics and strengthening social bonds.
As Sierra Leone advances on its development journey, this project stands as a testament to the power of inclusive participation—showing that when marginalized groups are given space to contribute, lasting peace and social harmony become achievable.
The close-out session featured a photo exhibition of community engagements, captured by CRS Communications and Marketing Manager Abdul Karim Mans-Kanu, highlighting the faces and stories of those whose lives have been changed through this transformative effort
