By: Idriss A. Sankoh (Pilot)
The Women Environmental Programme Sierra Leone (WEP-SL), with funding support from the European Union, successfully conducted a Capacity-Building workshop on Thursday, 26th June 2025, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to engage more effectively in civic advocacy and policy influence.
Held at the Two Brothers Hall, Syke Street, Freetown, the workshop was convened under the theme:
“Strengthening CSOs for Effective Civic Engagement and Advocacy.”
The training focused on several core areas including:
- Organizational Governance and Leadership
- Program Management and Accountability
- Advocacy and Civic Engagement
- Policy Influence
- Resource Mobilization and Proposal Development
In her welcome address, Madam Stalina Princess H. Voegli, Chief Executive Officer of WEP-SL, expressed deep appreciation to the European Union for its continued support, and highlighted the critical role CSOs play in promoting sustainable development and environmental justice.This training is a crucial step in empowering CSOs to participate meaningfully in decision-making processes and hold duty-bearers accountable,” Madam Voegli stated. “Civil society and women’s organizations must be equipped with the right skills to address environmental challenges, influence policies, and serve as catalysts for positive change in their communities.”
Ms. Melrose A.J. Williams, who facilitated the training, emphasized the importance of strong internal systems and strategic civic engagement. “For CSOs to be credible voices in society, they must uphold good governance, ensure internal accountability, and craft advocacy campaigns that truly reflect the needs of the communities they serve,” she said.
She further highlighted that “Effective advocacy is not just about raising voices, it’s about sustained engagement, meaningful policy influence, and the ability to mobilize resources to drive your mission forward.” Ms. Williams also walked participants through practical approaches to proposal development, and encouraged them to adopt sustainable funding models beyond donor dependency.
The workshop brought together representatives from various CSOs, community leaders, and environmental advocates, all eager to strengthen their skills and amplify their organizational impact.
Participants lauded WEP-SL and the European Union for the timely and impactful initiative and committed to applying the knowledge gained to promote environmental justice, good governance, and inclusive civic engagement across Sierra Leone.
The event concluded with a resounding call for continued collaboration and long-term capacity building to empower CSOs as vital agents of national development and policy reform.