Sierra Leone Roundup: Sexual violence, human rights breaches, malaria vaccine

Energy minister resigns

Sierra Leone's minister in charge of energy, Kanja Sesay resigned on Monday, April 29 after an end to the electricity crisis that lasted in Freetown and other cities for almost a month. The blackout was caused by the non-payment of $48 million owed to Turkish electricity provider Karpowership. APA reports that An outstanding $18 million has been paid, prompting the energy minister to resign. The situation is now under the president’s office.

Sexual violence

In 2019, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone made a decisive move by declaring a national emergency to address the pervasive issue of rape and sexual violence. Now, five years later, BBC Africa Eye delves into the question of whether survivors of these heinous acts are receiving the justice they deserve. The national emergency declared in Sierra Leone aimed to address the widespread issue of sexual violence. The government implemented measures such as creating special police units and fast-tracking court cases, but it's unclear if the emergency declaration made a significant impact. The issue of sexual violence in Sierra Leone remains a complex and deeply rooted problem.

Cybercrime instrument

On April 19, 2024, the Embassy of Sierra Leone in Brussels officially submitted the instrument of accession to the Convention on Cybercrime (ETS 185). With Sierra Leone's accession, the total number of Parties to the Convention rises to 71, while two states have signed it, and 20 others have been invited to accede. The Council of Europe and Sierra Leonean authorities pledge ongoing cooperation to ensure the thorough implementation of the Convention on Cybercrime.

Malaria vaccines rolled out

Liberia, Benin, and Sierra Leone have rolled out a malaria vaccine targeting millions of children, announced on World Malaria Day. According to The Standard, the vaccine rollout aims to scale up vaccine deployment in the African region, with several other countries scheduled to roll it out in 2025. Liberia's Minister of Health, Louise Kpoto, emphasised the impact of the vaccine in protecting children from malaria. Liberia is set to benefit from 112,000 doses of the vaccine, with at least 45,000 children expected to benefit.

Human rights breaches

The US Department of State has issued a damning human rights report on Sierra Leone, citing arbitrary killings, political prisoners, and government corruption. Atlas News explains that the report details repressive activities by the ruling party, abuses by security forces, and limitations on media freedom. The US has provided millions in aid to Sierra Leone, but the country still faces high maternal mortality rates and widespread poverty. Despite this, the US continues to train Sierra Leone's armed forces and a former US Green Beret serves as the country's National Security Advisor. The appointment of the former Green Beret as National Security Advisor raises concerns about US engagement with the government. The US policy in Sierra Leone may also be focused on preventing increased authoritarianism and promoting democratic practices.