The Campaign Against Cruelty to Animals in Sierra Leone (CCA-SL) has in collaboration with the Animal Welfare Institute (AWI), USA, concluded a robust awareness campaign aimed at combating cruelty to animals and promoting positive attitudes toward animal welfare.
The campaign, which was hosted in Bo District on 23rd January 2026, was guided by the principle that kindness to animals is a true measure of humanity. Animal cruelty, including the consumption of dog and cat meat and other forms of abuse, remains a concern in some communities, hence the intervention sought to address harmful practices through education, advocacy, and community engagement.
The objectives were to raise awareness on the negative impacts of animal cruelty and abuse, discourage the consumption of dog and cat meat, promote humane treatment of animals and positive mindset change, engage community leaders, stakeholders, and government representatives in animal welfare advocacy and strengthen community ownership of animal protection initiatives
Chief Executive Officer of CCA-SL, Tom Sandi popularly known as the “Dog Father,” played a leading role in the campaign. His passionate commitment and long-standing advocacy against cruelty to animals significantly inspired community participation and engagement throughout the engagement.
The campaign recorded strong community participation with traditional leaders, local authorities, youth groups, and women’s groups in attendance. The community meeting was climaxed with a colourful traditional masquerade performance, which enhanced cultural relevance and community ownership of the message.
Government representatives and other stakeholders were present, demonstrating institutional support for animal welfare and humane practices.
The engagement brought about increased awareness on animal welfare and cruelty prevention, improved community understanding of the ethical and health implications of consuming dog and cat meat, strengthened collaboration between CCA-SL, local authorities, and communities and enhanced visibility of animal welfare messages through media and advocacy materials
Through strategic partnerships, strong leadership, cultural engagement, and community participation, CCA-SL continues to foster a positive shift in mindset toward animals. The organization remains committed to sustaining these efforts through continuous education, media engagement, and stakeholder collaboration.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 28th January 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
