Freetown, Sierra Leone – 15 July, 2025 – Civil society organizations (CSOs) from across Sierra Leone have convened in Freetown for a three-day workshop aimed at enhancing their engagement in Security Sector Reform and Governance (SSRG). The event, taking place from 14 to 16 July 2025, brings together participants from civil society, government, development partners, and technical experts to foster collaboration and strengthen oversight of the security sector.

The workshop was officially opened today with statements from senior officials representing UNDP Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the European Union Delegation, Germany, and the ECOWAS Resident Representative. 

"UNDP remains fully committed to supporting civil society engagement in Security Sector Reform and Governance. We stand with you as Sierra Leone advances toward a security sector that protects, includes, and empowers every citizen." -  Fredrick Ampiah, UNDP Resident Representative

This workshop is part of ongoing efforts to support Sierra Leone’s democratic consolidation and security sector transformation. Civil society plays a key role in promoting inclusive governance, monitoring reforms, and advocating for human rights and security sector accountability. Discussions are focusing on best practices in security sector governance, lessons from other West African countries, and approaches to building stronger partnerships between civil society and state institutions.

"As the Ministry of Internal Affairs, we are committed to creating an environment where civil society can thrive and play an active role in security sector governance. The journey may be challenging, but through dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared vision for a safer Sierra Leone, we can overcome them together." - Honourable Morie Lengor, Minister of Internal Affairs, Sierra Leone

The event is expected to result in the establishment of a national CSO coordination platform and the validation of a roadmap for civil society engagement in SSRG. These outcomes aim to position civil society as a key actor in supporting democratic oversight and strengthening the delivery of security services.

This event was convened with joint support from the UNDP Sierra Leone and The EU Support to ECOWAS in Peace, Security, and Governance (EPSG) Project. EPSG strengthens ECOWAS’ capacity in peacebuilding, security, and governance in West Africa. The EU co-funded project is commissioned by Germany and implemented by GIZ, EF and FIAP in partnership with ECOWAS.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, a representative of the German Embassy reaffirmed their commitment to enhance the strengthening of sector. 

"The German Government, reaffirms its commitment to supporting Sierra Leone in its efforts to strengthen security sector reform, enhance border management, and build resilience against emerging security threats." – H.E Jens Kraus-Massé, German Ambassador to Sierra Leone 

“Be assured that the EU will remain at your side in accompanying your endeavour to reduce crime in your country and the West African subregion.” – H.E Jacek Jankowski EU Head of Delegation to Sierra Leone.

UNDP has supported security sector reform in Sierra Leone since the end of the civil war in 2002, contributing to initiatives such as the transition of the Sierra Leone Police into a Police Service, justice sector reforms, and strengthening the rule of law. The current workshop builds on these efforts and emphasizes the critical contribution of civil society to security and justice governance.

“ECOWAS stands firmly with Sierra Leone in its efforts to reform and strengthen its security architecture in a way that enhances human security, safeguards democratic institutions, and responds to the needs of all citizens.” – Ambassador John Azumah ECOWAS Resident Representative to Sierra Leone.

Ends

For more information about the project and workshop, please contact:
Ms. Ilemobola Ademola-Adelehin
Governance, Peace and Security Specialist, UNDP Sierra Leone
Email: ilemobola.ademola-adelehin@undp.org
Phone: +232 30 968 996

GIZ contact 

Ms. Subetta Chansa

Technical Advisor Security Sector Reform & Governance and Gender, GIZ EPSG Project

Email: subetta.chansa@giz.de

Phone: +234 9139363974