Launch of Network of Female Councillors in Sierra Leone Marks a Milestone for Gender-Equal Governance

The Campaign for Good Governance (CGG), in collaboration with Trocaire and backed by Irish Aid, has launched the Network of Female Councillors Sierra Leone at an event in Freetown’s New Brookfields Hotel, representing a pivotal moment for female leadership in Sierra Leone. This network is designed to empower female councillors, providing a vital platform for shared learning, advocacy, and growth in governance.


Marcella Samba Sesay, CGG's Executive Director, opened the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of this initiative in promoting gender equality and reinforcing women’s role in governance. Acknowledging the support of various stakeholders, she noted that the network will strengthen female councillors’ capacities to influence change at the local level.


Councillor Salamatu Koroma of Jui highlighted how the network offers a unique opportunity for councillors to exchange experiences and advocate collectively on issues affecting women in their communities. This collaborative space is aimed at supporting female leaders in tackling the challenges that impact their constituents.

Inspired by recent government initiatives, CGG Programme Manager Sahr Kendema explained the network’s potential in driving local development, following President Bio’s example of establishing a network for female ministers. Kendema emphasized that female councillors are pivotal in community representation, and the network will enhance their influence and impact.


Professor Fredline M’comock Hail, Chair of the 50/50 Group, delivered the keynote address, encouraging unity across party lines. She celebrated the female councillors as essential actors in governance, referring to them as “foot soldiers” whose collective voice can bring real change.


Trocaire’s Country Director, George Were, reiterated Trocaire’s commitment to women’s empowerment in Sierra Leone, emphasizing that networks like this are essential for supporting women not only locally but across Africa. Irish Embassy Head of Development, Caroll Hannon, echoed this sentiment, pledging continued support for women’s rights and emphasizing that such initiatives are instrumental for advancing women’s roles in key local programs.

The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, highlighted the network’s role in fostering cross-party female leadership and thanked CGG for aligning with her ministry’s mission. She underscored the importance of collaboration to address pressing community issues and pledged further support for female councillors.


Ambassador Tamba Lamina, Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, described the network as groundbreaking and confirmed the government’s commitment to gender equality. He announced forthcoming regulations to ensure a minimum of 30% female representation in council committees, underscoring the government’s drive toward more inclusive governance.


The launch of the Network of Female Councillors represents a significant step forward in Sierra Leone’s commitment to gender-balanced leadership and highlights the growing momentum toward empowering women at the grassroots level. The event concluded with calls for unity, resilience, and active collaboration among female councillors to create impactful changes within their communities.



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