Hands of Our Girl's Campaign marks five years

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐅𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐬 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐎𝐟𝐟 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐆𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝐅𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐜𝐲.

In a resounding chorus of accolades, the security sector, comprising the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), the Correctional Services, and others, have showered praise upon the Fifth Anniversary Commemoration March of the "Hands Off Our Girls" campaign, which occurred on the 28th December, 2023. The event, commemorating this significant milestone, witnessed representatives from various state security institutions, spearheaded by the First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio. Acknowledging the noteworthy efforts of Dr. Fatima Madam Bio, the forces lauded her for pioneering a praiseworthy venture aimed at ensuring the dignity and respect of girls in society. This groundbreaking campaign stands as the first-ever idea conceived by a Sierra Leonean to ensure that girls have unfettered access to education and contribute meaningfully to society without the pressure of being forced into marriage or the horrific acts of child sexual exploitation at a national level. The symbolic marching event held during the commemoration served as a tangible expression of gratitude from Sierra Leoneans and military personnel towards the Presidency of the Republic, headed by His Excellency the President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, for consistently empowering the First Lady to lead such a triumphant campaign. Speaking on behalf of the security personnel, the wife of the Inspector General of the Sierra Leone Police Force, Madam Matilda Doris Sellu, commended Her Excellency for her consistent efforts in creating an enabling environment for the nation's children, emphasizing her commitment to eradicating sexual violence, rape, child abuse, and the exploitation of girls. Described as a true blessing to the nation's advancement, the First Lady is recognized as a force to be reckoned with. The resounding success of the "Hands Off Our Girls" campaign has gained substantial momentum, resulting in a noticeable decline in cases of abuse against girls, thereby safeguarding their dignity and pride. The security forces passionately call on all Sierra Leoneans to unite in support of the First Lady for the continued success and impact of this positive campaign, one that unequivocally fosters progress and prosperity for the nation. ............................. Strategic Communications Division, Office of the First Lady, Republic of Sierra Leone.