In 2019, Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio declared a national emergency over rape and sexual violence, sparking hope for change. Five years on, BBC Africa Eye investigates whether survivors like Anita, whose three-year-old daughter was raped, are getting justice.
Anita's story is heartbreaking. She left her child with her employer's 22-year-old son, who took the toddler out under the guise of buying sweets, only to return her bleeding and traumatised. The police have failed to find the perpetrator, despite Anita's efforts to seek justice.
The national emergency led to a stricter Sexual Offences Act, with increased penalties for sexual assault, including life imprisonment for child rape. A Sexual Offences Model Court was established to fast-track trials. While reported cases of sexual and gender-based violence have decreased by 17%, making it to court remains a challenge.
The Rainbo Initiative, a national charity, reports that only 5% of cases make it to the High Court. Police face resource constraints, including a lack of transport to arrest suspects. Even when suspects are apprehended, getting them before a judge is difficult due to a bottleneck in the attorney general's office, which is the only entity authorised to sign documents for sexual offence cases.
Despite these challenges, Information Minister Chernor Bah acknowledges progress, citing systemic reforms and new laws. However, for survivors like Anita, justice remains elusive. She has resorted to posting the alleged suspect's photo on Facebook, desperate for help in finding him.
The situation highlights the need for sustained efforts to address sexual violence. While laws and policies are essential, adequate resources and personnel are crucial to enforcing them effectively. Sierra Leone must continue to work towards creating a justice system that truly supports survivors and holds perpetrators accountable. Only then can the country move towards a future where such heinous crimes are prevented and justice is served.
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