APA-Freetown-(Sierra Leone) A UN resolution championed by Sierra Leone’s First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio against child sexual exploitation (CSE) has won unanimous support from over 120 countries, APA has learnt.
On November 14th 2022, the UN set aside every November 18 as a day dedicated to ending the practice which has been blighting the future of children all over the globe.
This groundswell of support for Madame Bio’s brainchild at the UN General Assembly underscored the global commitment to ushering in hope for the healing of survivors of the phenomenon worldwide.
On the eve of the day (November 17, 2023), the state residence in Freetown became a house of veritable compassion as First Lady Dr .Fatima Maada Bio, the champion of the UN World Day, organised a special Muslim prayer session.
Graced by prominent Islamic clerics, schools, and girls acting as First Ladies in West Africa, the event was aimed at imbuing hope into the sorry lives of survivors of sexual exploitation.
The Muslim prayer concluded with a moving poem titled “The First Lady,” echoing sentiments of solidarity.
As the sun set on November 17th, a private dinner hosted by Mrs. Bio brought together invited First Ladies from Nigeria and Angola, Senator Oluremi Tinubu and Anna Dias Lourenco respectively.
This intimate gathering fostered connections and collaboration, emphasising the importance of unity in addressing the challenges shared by all nations.
On the pivotal day of November 18, 2023, the Winner’s Chapel International Church in Freetown resonated with the spirit of faith and empowerment.
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, alongside the star-performing gospel artist Sinach, led a Christian prayer session.
In an extraordinary gesture of support, 70 scholarships were awarded to survivors, ensuring their access to university education for a four-year period until graduation.
Additionally, a substantial financial contribution of 100,000 million old notes was extended to organisations dedicated to protecting women and girls in Sierra Leone.
The evening of November 18, 2023, witnessed the culmination of this show of compassionate as Mrs. Bio treated both local and foreign dignitaries to a state dinner.
Against the backdrop of shared values and a commitment to bringing about positive change, the dinner served as a poignant celebration of unity, resilience, and unflagging hope which characterised the day’s flurry of events.
ABJ/APA