From Streets To Safety: Sierra Leone Unveils Bold Plan To Rescue Vulnerable Children
For many children in West Africa, the streets are not a choice but a consequence of deep-rooted social and economic hardship.
Sierra Leone is now taking decisive steps to change that narrative as the Sierra Leonean government has unveiled a comprehensive national strategy to address the growing crisis of children living on the streets, prioritising the issue on its national agenda.
This was revealed during deliberations at the ongoing ECOWAS Parliament Joint Committee meeting in Freetown.
Government officials and representatives from the ECOWAS Commission acknowledged that the rise in street children reflects broader regional challenges, requiring coordinated and sustained interventions.
At the centre of Sierra Leone’s response is the National Strategy for Addressing Issues of Children in Street Situations (2022–2024).
Developed in collaboration with key institutions including the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, and the National Commission for Children, the framework focuses on child protection, access to essential services, and family tracing and reunification.
Supporting policies such as the National Child Protection Strategy and the Alternative Care Policy are strengthening systems to shield children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, while ensuring those without parental care are placed in safe, family-like environments.
With backing from UNICEF, the government has also introduced the Positive Parenting Education Programme, equipping caregivers with skills to provide safer and more supportive homes, and discouraging violent discipline, one of the key drivers that pushes children onto the streets.
Institutionally, new directorates under the Ministry of Social Welfare, including Family Welfare and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services, are delivering critical interventions such as counselling, rehabilitation, education support, and family reunification.
Security agencies are also playing a role through specialised Family Support Units within the Sierra Leone Police.
Legal backing remains strong, with the amended Child Rights Act guaranteeing protection for vulnerable children, prohibiting hazardous labour, and regulating care homes in line with international standards.
While stakeholders at the Freetown meeting noted significant progress, they stressed that sustained funding, coordination, and effective implementation will be key to long-term success.
As discussions continue, there is a growing consensus that safeguarding children in street situations goes beyond policy, it requires consistent action to restore dignity, protection, and hope for every child.
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