On the 7th of January 2025, AdvocAid celebrated International Women’s Day by furthering its commitment to support women incarcerated in Sierra Leone through its campaign, “Supporting 350 Female Detainees.” This initiative addresses the unique challenges faced by female detainees in a justice system predominantly designed to accommodate men.
In Sierra Leone, women and girls in detention contend with numerous adversities, including a severe lack of access to legal representation and inadequate facilities that fail to cater to their specific needs. Prisons are structured primarily for male populations, leading to significant gaps in policies, routines, and essential facilities. Issues like menstrual hygiene, health screenings, and support for lactating mothers are often overlooked, exacerbating the already dire conditions faced by these women.
The stigma surrounding female incarceration often leads to family abandonment, diminishing the likelihood of visits and emotional support from loved ones. Additionally, many women lack basic personal hygiene products, making their experience in detention even more challenging.
In response to these pressing needs, AdvocAid’s dedicated staff, led by Programme Officer, Mercy Bangura, from the Makeni office, made a cordial visit to the Makeni Female Correctional Services. During this visit, they distributed welfare packs to 15 women, each containing essential items such as gari, sugar, milk, slippers, wrappers, and soap. This gesture was met with immense appreciation from the recipients, highlighting the impact of such initiatives on the lives of those who feel forgotten by society.
The support provided by AdvocAid is a crucial step toward alleviating the hardships faced by female detainees in Sierra Leone. By ensuring access to basic necessities and acknowledging their humanity, AdvocAid is not only improving the immediate conditions of these women but also advocating for a more equitable justice system that recognizes and addresses the needs of females within its confines.
As we move forward, we want to thank Global Giving and all the individual donors using this platform to support our mission. Your continued commitment to supporting AdvocAid in its mission to empower and uplift women in detention, ensuring that they receive the care and respect they deserve during their incarceration is truly appreciated.
Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of these women, paving the way for a more just and compassionate society.