Stakeholders in Sinoe County have raised alarm over the shortage of female police officers, highlighting its detrimental impact on combating Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in the region.
Expressing their concerns during a gathering in the county, stakeholders emphasized the urgent need for the Ministry of Gender to advocate for the appointment of a female county attorney and the assignment of a female police commander.
They argued that the presence of female law enforcement officers is crucial for creating a safe environment and facilitating the reporting and handling of SGBV cases.
The stakeholders stressed the importance of coordinated efforts among local organizations, law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, and the national government to effectively address SGBV in Sinoe County.
They called for the expansion of victim support services, including the establishment of a functional safe Home, provision of psychological services, and enhancement of the Jury management system to ensure justice for survivors.
In addition to enhancing support services, the concerned stakeholders emphasized the need for community-wide education initiatives and awareness campaigns to prevent SGBV.
According to them, educating the public, particularly women and girls, about their rights and available resources for seeking help in cases of violence are needed mechanisms that should be put in place to fight SGBV.
This comes as the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, led by Madam Gbeme Horace Kollie conducts comprehensive assessment and outreach mission across six Southeastern counties, including River Cess, Sinoe, Grand Kru, Maryland, River Gee, and Grand Gedeh.
The aim of the mission is to evaluate existing strategies and strengthen interventions to support women, children, and vulnerable communities.
During the stakeholders’ engagement meeting in Sinoe County, Deputy Gender Minister Curtis Dorley facilitated discussions on actionable solutions to address the challenges faced by women, children, and vulnerable groups.
Deputy Minister Dorley reiterated President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of women, children, the elderly, and disabled communities.
The meeting, attended by civil society organizations, international non-governmental organizations, the Sinoe Women Organization, representatives of the Ministry of Justice, youth representatives, and persons with disabilities, provided a platform for collaborative efforts to tackle SGBV and promote gender equality in Sinoe County.
