By: Adama Whyte Conteh
A national non-governmental organization, the Agency for Integrated Development Sierra Leone (AID-SL), operating in southeastern Sierra Leone, joined the rest of the world in commemorating International Women’s Day (March 8th, 2025).
To make the day laudable and impactful for the women’s community in Kailahun district, the organization has launched Village Saving and Loan Association (VSLA) support to 10 women’s organizations within the district.
A total of EUR 5,000 in value will be distributed among these groups to provide better access to financial resources for rural communities and provide a platform for community support.
The activity is part of a European Union co-funded project titled “Promoting Economic and Social Rights and Empowering Women and Youths in the South and Eastern Regions of Sierra Leone,” implemented jointly by the Kailahun District Council, Movement towards Peace and Development Agency Sierra Leone (MOPADA-SL), and Bonth District Council.
Speaking with Mr. Sheku Gbetuwa, the organization’s Business Development Compliance and Partnership Manager, he disclosed that in observance of this year’s Internal Women’s Day Commemoration, AID-SL, as an organization, decided to put a smile on the faces of the women in their operational communities within the district. As such, each VSLA will receive cash of Le 10,000, plus a metal box with padlocks, a calculator, registration certificates, and a bowl for counting money.
This gesture, as he stated, will enhance their source of finance and boost the rural economy. He continued that the money is not for sharing among members but used purposely for the VSLA venture and that the group will be continually monitored by the organization, the district council, and community stakeholders.
He further disclosed that the engagement will foster love, peace, and development in all the chiefdoms in the district.
A beneficiary Watta Jibilla of the Gboyama group in the Njaluahun chiefdom thanks AID-SL and the donor EU for their support for them. She vowed that they would appropriately use the money for its intended purpose, as it is geared to improve their economic capacity. She added that the support is very vital for their endeavors and came at the right time. She, however, pleaded for more support as more vulnerable women and children stand out there to benefit.
