President Koroma discusses women and children’s issues with American Advocacy Group
At State Lodge today, President Koroma received the United States’ predominantly women’s group, ONE, a gender-advocacy organization comprising of  70% women and 30% men from all walks of life in America and primarily addressing matters relating to women and children. Their leader, Cindy McCain, told the President they are in Sierra Leone to update themselves on developments in the country, and also to thank the President “for what you have done for your country and for where you are taking it.”
In his remarks, President Koroma welcomed the group and thanked them for focusing on women and children, “the group that was most affected during the war and now most affected in terms of social services; therefore any organization focusing on them is most welcome.” He said they are coming in at a time when the government is looking at the difficulties of the health sector, “which is mainly responsible for the position in which we find ourselves in the Human Development index.” He disclosed that, in order to make the first move of reversing the situation, his government has taken the bold step of abolishing all user fees for women and children by 27th April this year, as part of the national health plan that would make health services accessible and affordable for all. He said this vision is very challenging and therefore welcomed the group for its willingness to collaborate with government in making it achievable.
In follow-up interactive discussions, the President disclosed government’s priority being placed on encouraging girl-child education, the need for adult education and skills training for women, and the need to create employment opportunities for the youth.
Former White House Press Secretary Dana Perino was among the visiting delegation and is acting as their press officer.
The group boasts of over two million members.
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