By Yusufu S. Bangura
HRCSL Chairperson, Ndanema & Commissioner Yarjah speaking to pressmen
The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) celebrated its 20th anniversary on December 10, 2024, coinciding with the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
The event, held at the Commission’s headquarters on Tower Hill, Freetown, gathered staff members, journalists, and key stakeholders to reflect on two decades of human rights advocacy in Sierra Leone.
This year’s commemoration also marked International Human Rights Day, under the theme “Equality: Reducing Inequalities and Advancing Human Rights.” The theme emphasizes global efforts to combat systemic inequalities and promote human rights for all.
Delivering the keynote address, HRCSL Chairperson Patricia Narsu Ndanema highlighted the Commission’s achievements and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding human rights. She underscored the government’s responsibility to respect, protect, and fulfil citizens’ rights, as well as the role of individuals in promoting these principles.
“As a Commission, we remain steadfast in upholding the core principles of human rights: equality, non-discrimination, universality, participation, and the inalienability of rights for all,” she stated.
Ndanema also spotlighted the Commission’s efforts to empower marginalized groups through the creation of the Directorate of Gender, Children’s Affairs, and Vulnerable Groups in 2019. This initiative provides a platform for vulnerable populations to report human rights violations and seek justice.
Commissioner Hassan Samba Yarjah highlighted some of the Commission’s major milestones over the past 20 years. Notably, HRCSL has twice received a prestigious Grade A status from the Global Alliance for National Human Rights Institutions, recognizing its adherence to international human rights standards.
Additionally, the Commission has established 78 human rights and peace clubs in schools across the country, promoting human rights education among young people. “By catching them young, we ensure that children grow up understanding the importance of peace and human rights,” Yarjah explained.
Despite its accomplishments, Commissioner Yarjah acknowledged challenges, particularly the limited geographic reach of the Commission’s offices. Currently, HRCSL operates regional offices but hopes to expand into all districts nationwide.
“We aspire to establish offices in every district, but in the meantime, we have partnered with district human rights committees composed of local civil society organizations that advocate for human rights within their communities,” he said.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from HRCSL to continue its advocacy for equality, justice, and the protection of human rights across Sierra Leone.
