The Fullness of Life for Children Management Program under the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary in Sierra Leone has been deeply fulfilling and challenging. The program’s primary goal is to empower vulnerable children and youths, focusing on critical issues such as teenage pregnancy, early child marriage, abuse, and the growing menace of Kush. This locally abused drug is ravaging many young lives.
Training on Teenage Pregnancy and Early Child Marriage
One of the most impactful aspects of the program has been our training sessions on teenage pregnancy and early child marriage. Sierra Leone has one of the highest teenage pregnancy rates in the world, with many girls becoming mothers before they even understand what it means to care for themselves. Through our program, we organize workshops and interactive training sessions for both students and parents. The goal is to create awareness of the health risks and the long-term effects these practices have on girls, their education, and their future prospects.
Our approach is holistic, combining both education and advocacy. We engage students in open discussions about sexual health, empowering them with knowledge about their bodies and reproductive rights. Many girls have expressed relief in having a safe space to discuss issues they usually find difficult to discuss. We also involve parents and community leaders in these conversations, helping them to understand the importance of delaying marriage and pregnancy so girls can finish their education and make informed life choices.
Addressing Abuses of Different Kinds
Abuse in various forms—physical, emotional, and sexual—is alarmingly common in the communities we serve. Our program provides a safe platform for children and youths to speak up about their experiences. Many of these young people had suffered silently, afraid of judgment or retaliation. As we train teachers, students, and parents on child safeguarding, we emphasize that abuse is never the fault of the victim and that everyone in the community must act as protectors of the young.
We have seen a significant shift in community attitudes. More students are coming forward to report abuses, and parents are taking a more proactive role in safeguarding their children. Our advocacy campaigns have also sensitized local authorities, making it easier for victims to access justice and support services.
The Kush Crisis
One of the most pressing issues we currently face is the growing use of Kush—a synthetic drug that has devastated many lives in Sierra Leone. The drug, often smoked or inhaled, is highly addictive and affects the cognitive and physical well-being of users, primarily targeting the youth population. Through our training programs, we educate students/youths and communities in general.
