The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone has concluded its mobile complaints hearing session, targeting key populations in Makeni and Bo, concomitantly.
With support from Global Fund through World Vision International Sierra Leone, the objectives of the hearing on the 25th to 27th of March 2026 were to identify specific human rights affecting vulnerable groups in a bid to address them, and also receive complaints of human rights violations and provide adequate redress.
The hearing in each location started off with the engagement of community leaders and key populations, where the background of the establishment of the Commission and its work over the years in protecting and promoting the rights of all in Sierra Leone was explained.
In Sierra Leone, vulnerable groups, especially persons living with HIV, are grappling with several issues, including discrimination, stigmatisation, and the right to access health care services, which affect the full enjoyment of their rights.
The hearing provided the chance for them to interact with the Commission and bring to its attention issues affecting the enjoyment of their rights.
They welcomed the move by HRCSL in engaging them to know their issues and understand the work of the Commission.
Some of them stated that they have been discriminated against and excluded because of their status. They expressed hope that the Commission would help in addressing issues affecting their wellbeing.
Madam Jamie M’bayo, Human Rights Field Officer for the National AIDS Secretariat in Makeni, described the session as timely and important because of the many issues they normally encounter working with key populations.
Some of the issues Madam M’bayo highlighted range from discrimination, issues with the police, and clients not paying the agreed amount but rather manhandling them, among others.
She said, “having the HRCSL to come in and talk to them about their rights and the work that they do will help our clients to get the justice that they need. We will start to use this channel in addressing issues affecting our clients.”
At the two locations, the Chairperson, Mrs. Patricia Narsu Ndanema and Commissioner Hassan Samba Yarjah stressed the need for inclusivity in all aspects of life for key populations. They stated that no matter their status, the rights of key populations should be respected and that communities must embrace them and ensure that they have equal access to basic services.
A total of twenty-five (25) complaints were received in Bo and twenty-seven (27) in Makeni. They ranged from neglect by parents and maintenance.