By Ragan M. Conteh

The Girl Child Network Sierra Leone (GCN), under the leadership of Anita Koroma, is at the forefront of empowering many vulnerable girls in Sierra Leone.

Through leadership training, education guidance, and advocacy for child-friendly policies, GCN is empowering more women in the country.

The organization remains committed to protecting the rights of girls, addressing some harmful cultural practices which hinder their development.

On March 8, 2025, GCN participated in the Vital Voices Global Mentoring Walk in Makeni City, further underscoring its dedication to gender equality, quality education, and climate action—key pillars of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Through its transformative work, GCN is not only empowering girls but it is also fostering a positive change in communities across Sierra Leone.

Anita Koroma has consistently emphasized that GCN’s core mission is to advocate for the rights and well-being of girls across the country.

She has raised concerns about the numerous violations girls face, including the forceful initiation of them into the Bondo society, which often involves cutting of private parts, otherwise Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

While GCN respects cultural traditions, the organization firmly opposes FGM due to its harmful physical and psychological consequences.

Koroma highlights that FGM leads to severe pain, long-term health complications, infertility, and, in some cases, even deaths.

She stresses that cutting should be eliminated from all Bondo related practices as it has no benefit to the girl-child.

“We are not against the Bondo society, but we totally condemn Female Genital Mutilation,” she said.

“Instead of forcing girls into initiation, parents should be encouraging them to pursue education and build a brighter future for them.”

Beyond its advocacy against FGM, GCN is breaking myths and misconceptions surrounding menstruation and sexual health issues.

The organization provides practical guidance to women and girls, ensuring that they are given access to menstrual hygiene products which are essential for them.

In addition, GCN produces reusable sanitary pads, which are distributed to girls attending its training workshops.

By equipping them with both knowledge and resources, GCN is fostering healthier and more informed communities.

As a dedicated advocate for women’s and girls’ rights, GCN ensures that all its programs, projects, and interventions align with SDGs.

Through its work in education, gender equality, and health, the organization is actively contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable future for girls in Sierra Leone.

With its unwavering commitments, GCN continues to transform lives, which challenging the very harmful norms, and by empowering girls to reach their full potentials.