TO FACILITATE FSU OPERATIONS, UNICEF DONATES 17 MOTORBIKES TO SLP.
MEDICAL STORES, NEW ENGLAND VILLE, FREETOWN, 19 JANUARY, 2022-
With support from the Government of Japan, under the Response to the socio-economic impact of COVID-19 on child right and resilience building in Sierra Leone project, the United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has donated 33 motorbikes to the Family Support Unit (FSU) of the SLP and the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA).
Speaking at the donation ceremony, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. Ambrose Michael Sovula emphasized on the need to protect children, noting that useful children today are better citizens tomorrow.
The donation he went on to say was to augment the government of Sierra Leone in providing care service for children.
With the motorbikes, the FSU he said would be able to access hard to reach communities and villages.
He however pleaded with UNICEF to remember the SLP for capacity building through training.
“When there is no proper policing, there is a breakdown in law and order and by extension, the children will suffer” cried the IGP, for which he called for help to prevent the children from suffering.
He concluded by commending the President Bio led administration for giving the SLP operational independency which he said has led to quality and better service delivery and assured that the motorbikes donated would be used for their intended purpose.
Earlier, UNICEF country representative, Dr. Suleiman Braimah explained that the key mandate of UNICEF, is the safety and protection of children.
Dr. Braimah emphasized that UNICEF will continue doing its work to ensure that children grow up in a healthy and conducive environment.
He therefore expressed hope that the motorbikes will be used to access hard to reach communities, enhance geographic coverage in preventing and responding to violence against children and Gender Based violence across the country including the 6 one stop centers as well as improving monitoring of health facilities and birth and death registration of children.
“We would be doing disservice to the next generation if we fail to provide them the right of legal identity and protect them from all forms of violence and exploitation.
UNICEF he said stands ready to enhance support for FSU and NCRA’s initiatives and also to prevent and respond to Sexual Gender Based violence and other forms of violence against women and children.
He expressed optimism that the motorbikes will contribute to the unwavering effort of FSU and NCRA to increase access to justice for all women and children in contact with the law.
