Global and regional leaders convened in Freetown for the 7th edition of the Strengthening Families Conference (SFC) 2025, a dynamic two-day event that underscored child protection and women’s empowerment as essential pillars for resilient communities.
Hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in partnership with government, faith institutions, and civil society, the conference ran from June 26–27 at the Bintumani National Conference Centre under the theme: “Building Stronger Communities through Women Empowerment and Child Protection.”
The gathering attracted high-level dignitaries, including Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of Sierra Leone, who delivered the opening keynote. She called on all stakeholders to move from dialogue to action, stressing the transformative role women play in society.
“Let this not be just a conference,” she urged. “Let us design policies that will make women true change-makers. Women are the builders of our families, and strong families are the foundation of a strong society.”
Representing The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elder Isaac K. Morrison, Second Counselor in the Africa West Area Presidency, emphasized the moral imperative of empowering women. “We need more women of virtue, purity, and strength in our homes and communities. Empowerment begins within the family,” he said.
The conference featured interfaith and traditional leaders, including Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles, who described women’s empowerment as a spiritual obligation. Traditional leader Sheku Amadu Tejan Fasuluku-Sonsiama III highlighted the role of community leadership in fostering inclusion: “True transformation starts in our homes, villages, and towns.”
Liberian Ambassador Bob Sheriff and Amir Musa Mewa of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission delivered goodwill messages, reinforcing a spirit of regional solidarity. The first day also included a vibrant exhibition of family-centered programs and a panel discussion on policy solutions led by activists including Isatu Jabbie Kabbah and Aminata Turay.
Day Two: Child Protection Takes Center Stage
Day two shifted the focus to child protection as a cornerstone of sustainable development. In his keynote address, Elder Alfred Kyungu, President of the Africa West Area of the Church, spoke passionately about the importance of nurturing environments.
“Children are shaped by their experiences,” he noted. “We must ensure they grow in environments that promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Love—not fear—should be the foundation of our parenting.”
Islamic scholar and political figure Sheik Ibrahim Barrie reiterated that women’s empowerment is embedded in religious teachings and vital to national progress. Young activist Grace Ada Brown moved the audience with her story, asserting: “When families are strong, communities thrive.”
Global experts, including Tonya Waite (Protect Child Health Coalition–USA), Jennifer Hogge Ellsworth (Engage Now Africa), and Greg and Sharon Slater (Family Watch International), offered practical strategies for protecting children. Panelists such as Daniel F. H. Kettor, Blessing Kutubu, and Christiana Ogbemoye Oliko emphasized trust-building between families and support institutions.
Major Announcements and Tangible Impact
In a significant announcement, Elder Kyungu revealed plans to build a 54-bed safe house in partnership with the Office of the First Lady to provide shelter and counseling for survivors of gender-based violence. “This facility will be a sanctuary for healing and restoration,” he said.
As part of its ongoing humanitarian support, the Church commissioned a renovation of the Intensive Care Units (ICU) at Connaught Hospital, Sierra Leone’s main public healthcare facility. The project included donations of ICU beds, defibrillators, monitors, and other life-saving equipment.
Dr. Charles Senessie, Acting Minister of Health, welcomed the initiative, stating, “This partnership aligns with our national health goals and showcases the power of collaboration.” Hospital Care Manager Dr. Ibrahim Kapuwa added, “This is not just an upgrade; it is a lifeline.”
At the closing ceremony, First Lady Fatima Maada Bio was honored with multiple awards from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Social Welfare Department, and the Government of Liberia for her leadership in championing women and family welfare.
As the conference concluded, one message rang clear: empowering women, protecting children, and investing in health are inseparable strategies for building a resilient, prosperous Sierra Leone.
Looking ahead, the 8th edition of the Strengthening Families Conference is slated to be held in Monrovia, Liberia, in June 2026—a moment all stakeholders eagerly anticipate as the movement to uplift families continues to grow across West Africa.
