Every year on March 8th, the world unites to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD), a day dedicated to honoring the achievements of women and advocating for gender equality. This year, under the United Nations theme “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” Marie Stopes Sierra Leone (MSSL) partnered with the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA), Plan International, Street Child, and the Children’s Forum Network (CFN) to commemorate this important day in Waterloo Rural. The event was a powerful call to action, focusing on women’s rights, the Safe Motherhood Bill, and the need for collective efforts to achieve gender equality.
A Road Walk for Women’s Rights
The day began with a vibrant road walk, where participants carried banners and placards advocating for women’s rights and raising awareness about the Safe Motherhood Bill. The walk, which started at the MSSL Waterloo Rural Clinic and ended at Fangei Hall on Action Street, Old Waterloo Town, was a visible demonstration of solidarity and a call to action for gender equality.
As we walked through the streets, the banners and chants drew attention to the importance of women’s rights and the need for safe motherhood services. The road walk was not just a celebration but a powerful tool for advocacy, reminding the community of the ongoing struggles women face and the urgent need for change.
A Gathering of Voices for Change
The opening ceremony, officiated by Christiana Kamara, Founder and Executive Director of Women in STEM, set the stage for a day of reflection and action. She welcomed representatives from the Waterloo Village Head Council and introduced the event’s Chairperson, Madam Doris Webber, a prominent advocate for women’s rights in Sierra Leone.
The event brought together a diverse group of partners, including the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, St. George Foundation, Street Child Sierra Leone, the Sierra Leone Police Family Support Unit, and others. Their presence highlighted the collective effort needed to advance women’s rights and empowerment.
Representation of other partner organizations present were St. George Foundation, Street Child Sierra Leone, Sierra Leone Police – Family Support Unit, SEND Sierra Leone, FoRUT, CARITAS, Ministry of Social Welfare (MoSW), Legal Aid Board.
Inspiring Speeches and Calls to Action
Madam Doris Webber, Chairperson of the event and a member of Sierra Leone’s Civil Society Activists, delivered a stirring speech that resonated with the UN’s theme. She reminded attendees of the historical significance of International Women’s Day, tracing its roots to the 1908 strike by women textile workers in New York. “Today, we continue their mission—to promote and protect the rights of women and girls,” she said. “This day is not just about women; it’s about everyone who stands for equality and justice.”
Foday Sesay, Deputy Director of Gender and Children’s Affairs and a former MSSL staff member, emphasized the importance of women knowing and exercising their rights. He highlighted the progress made under the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, including the 30% quota for women’s representation in parliament and local councils. “Women must understand their rights and take steps to protect them,” he urged. “From registering marriages to making informed decisions about their bodies, every step counts.”
Sandy Massaquoi, MSSL’s Advocacy and External Relations Manager, called on attendees to rally behind the Safe Motherhood Bill. “This legislation is crucial for ensuring that every woman in Sierra Leone has access to quality healthcare and safe motherhood services,” he said. “We must raise our voices and stand together to make this a reality.”
A Celebration of Culture and Solidarity
The event also celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Sierra Leone, with the Children’s Forum Network (CFN) delivering a series of energetic performances. Their dances and songs added a vibrant touch to the day, symbolizing the hope and resilience of the next generation.
A Call to Continue the Fight
As the event concluded, Madam Doris Webber thanked all participants, partners, and guests for their contributions. But the day was more than just a celebration—it was a reminder that the fight for women’s rights and gender equality is far from over.
Marie Stopes Sierra Leone remains committed to this mission, working tirelessly to empower women, protect their rights, and ensure access to quality healthcare. The road walk, speeches, and performances were not just moments of celebration but powerful calls to action. Together, we can build a future where every woman and girl in Sierra Leone has the opportunity to thrive.
Join Us in the Movement
International Women’s Day 2025 was a reminder that rights, equality, and empowerment are not just ideals—they are necessities. Let us carry forward the messages of this day and continue to advocate for women’s rights and the Safe Motherhood Bill. Because when women rise, we all rise.
