The Family Support Unit (FSU) of the Sierra Leone Police and the LAWYERS Organization have renewed their commitment to joint action in protecting the rights of women and addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) across the country.
This followed a courtesy and collaboration meeting held on Tuesday, 3rd February 2026, at the FSU Headquarters in Freetown, bringing together FSU leadership and representatives of the LAWYERS Organization to reinforce institutional partnership and coordinated response to SGBV cases.
Speaking during the engagement, the newly appointed President of the LAWYERS Organization, Ms Melissa Sesay, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and formally introduced her executive team to FSU management. She reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting the FSU in its mandate and outlined its core functions, which include promoting the rights of women and children, providing legal assistance to SGBV survivors, and working closely with law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to improve access to justice.
Ms Sesay underscored the importance of continuous capacity building for FSU personnel, judicial officers, and other stakeholders. She also highlighted plans to support the establishment of Sexual Offences Model Courts in Falaba, Kailahun, and Kenema Districts, as well as the review and strengthening of existing SGBV Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
In his response, the Head of the FSU, Superintendent Mr Mohamed S. Y. Mansaray, assured the delegation of the Unit’s full commitment to combating SGBV nationwide. He welcomed the renewed collaboration and emphasised the importance of sustained partnerships in enhancing protection mechanisms for women and children.
The meeting concluded with both institutions reaffirming their shared resolve to deepen cooperation and strengthen justice delivery systems for victims and survivors of SGBV in Sierra Leone.