The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) in Sierra Leone recently hosted a high-level delegation from Namibia for a South-South learning exchange. The visit aimed to strengthen the use of the Gender-Based Violence Information Management System Plus (GBVIMS+) and improve the management of information on gender-based violence. This engagement provides an opportunity for Namibia to learn from Sierra Leone’s experience in implementing the system.
The head of the visiting Namibian delegation commended Sierra Leone for its efforts to promote gender equality, strengthen child protection, and improve responses to gender-based violence. The delegation expressed interest in understanding Sierra Leone’s institutional practices and progress in using GBVIMS+. This exchange is expected to provide useful lessons for improving prevention and response systems across Africa.
The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs highlighted the importance of cooperation between African countries in strengthening national systems for preventing and responding to gender-based violence. She explained that GBVIMS+ supports better information management, coordination among service providers, case referrals, and evidence-based decision-making. These functions help institutions improve the quality of services provided to survivors.
The Minister also stressed that the system must protect the privacy and safety of survivors. She noted that information collected should support better policies and interventions while preserving the dignity and confidentiality of those affected. The Minister acknowledged the contributions of various partners, including the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Social Welfare, United Nations agencies, civil society organisations, and development partners.
The Rainbo Initiative and the Commit and Act Foundation were among the organisations recognised for their contributions to the process. The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening partnerships, promoting accountability, and ensuring that responses to gender-based violence remain centred on survivors’ needs. This commitment is crucial in advancing gender equality and improving services for survivors.
The visit highlights the importance of African countries sharing knowledge and practical experiences to improve protection for women, girls, children, and other vulnerable groups. The Ministry said it would continue working with partners to advance gender equality, strengthen child protection, and improve services for survivors of gender-based violence. This collaboration is essential in addressing the complex issues surrounding gender-based violence.
The exchange between Sierra Leone and Namibia is expected to strengthen relations between the two countries and provide valuable insights into improving prevention and response systems. The Ministry’s efforts to share expertise and best practices demonstrate its commitment to addressing gender-based violence and promoting gender equality in Sierra Leone and beyond.
Key points
- The visit aims to strengthen the use of the Gender-Based Violence Information Management System Plus (GBVIMS+) in Namibia.
- Sierra Leone’s experience with GBVIMS+ will inform Namibia’s efforts to improve its response to gender-based violence.
- The exchange between Sierra Leone and Namibia highlights the importance of African countries sharing knowledge and practical experiences to improve protection for vulnerable groups.
