By Francess Sesay

Human trafficking is a serious issue in Sierra Leone, as it is in many countries. In Sierra Leone, trafficking often involves children and women who are exploited for forced labor, domestic servitude, and sexual exploitation. Factors contributing to this problem include widespread poverty, a lack of educational opportunities, and the aftermath of the civil war, which has left many vulnerable to exploitation.

Efforts to combat human trafficking in Sierra Leone include government initiatives, international aid, and advocacy by non-governmental organizations. However, challenges remain in terms of enforcement, awareness, and support for victims. Addressing human trafficking in Sierra Leone requires a comprehensive approach involving prevention, protection, and prosecution.

2023 Trafficking in Person Report: Sierra Leone (Tier 2)

The Government of Sierra Leone does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so.The government demonstrated overall increasing efforts compared with the previous reporting period, considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, if any, on its anti-trafficking capacity; therefore, Sierra Leone remained on Tier 2.These efforts included prosecuting suspected traffickers and passing and enacting the Anti-Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Act of 2022, which increased penalties prescribed for trafficking crimes and removed the option for a fine in lieu of imprisonment for convicted traffickers. The government also supported repatriation of Sierra Leonean victims abroad. However, the government did not meet the minimum standards in several key areas. The government convicted fewer traffickers and identified fewer victims. Victim services remained woefully inadequate, and the government did not provide financial support to civil society organizations to provide services.

In an interview with Epic Radio, Media Officer Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force Secretariat, John-John Whitfield, said “Human trafficking is a societal issue that has affected us as a nation.”

Human trafficking is indeed a significant societal issue in Sierra Leone. The country faces various challenges related to trafficking, including poverty, lack of education, and weak law enforcement. Many individuals, particularly women and children, are vulnerable to exploitation and abuse, often being trafficked for forced labour, sexual exploitation, and domestic servitude.