Sierra Leone has received a major boost in its efforts to combat human trafficking and support survivors, following the launch of a US$35,000 ECOWAS-funded intervention aimed at strengthening victim protection, rehabilitation and reintegration programmes across the country.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Sierra Leone, the ECOWAS Resident Representation in Sierra Leone and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force Secretariat on Thursday, 6 August 2026, signed the grant documents for the 2026 ECOWAS Grant for Direct Assistance to Victims of Trafficking in Freetown.
The initiative, funded by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), will provide direct assistance to 55 survivors of trafficking, including nine girls, four boys, 40 women and two men currently living in shelters and communities across Sierra Leone.
Titled “Protection of Victims of Trafficking,” the project seeks to enhance survivor-centred services by ensuring that victims have access to critical support systems needed to recover from exploitation and successfully reintegrate into society.
The intervention will provide assistance in key areas such as shelter support, medical care, psychosocial counselling, protection services, rehabilitation and livelihood opportunities designed to help survivors rebuild their lives with dignity.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, representatives of the partner institutions reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration and improving national systems for preventing trafficking, identifying victims and delivering effective support services.
The Request for Proposal documents were formally approved and signed by members of the Grant Steering Committee, signalling the commencement of project implementation.
The Steering Committee comprises the Executive Director of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force Secretariat, Dehunge Shiaka; ECOWAS Resident Representative in Sierra Leone, His Excellency Ambassador John Azuma; and the Officer-in-Charge of IOM Sierra Leone, Dr. Pauline Macharia.
The latest funding represents the second ECOWAS-supported project grant dedicated to addressing human trafficking challenges in Sierra Leone, further demonstrating regional commitment towards protecting vulnerable populations and strengthening responses to trafficking in persons.
The project aligns with the ECOWAS Regional Policy on the Protection and Assistance of Victims of Trafficking in Persons in West Africa, which promotes coordinated regional action to prevent trafficking and provide comprehensive support to survivors.
Human trafficking continues to pose a significant threat across West Africa, with women and children among the most affected groups. Many survivors face long-term challenges after exploitation, including trauma, economic hardship, stigma and difficulties returning to normal community life.
Through this partnership, ECOWAS, IOM Sierra Leone and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force Secretariat will work to improve coordination among government institutions, service providers and communities involved in victim protection.
The programme is expected to strengthen the capacity of frontline actors, improve access to essential services and ensure that survivors receive assistance tailored to their specific circumstances.
The signing of the grant documents highlights Sierra Leone’s continued partnership with regional and international organisations in addressing trafficking in persons and advancing efforts to protect vulnerable individuals.
As implementation begins, stakeholders believe the project will contribute significantly to building a stronger national response system and ensuring that victims of trafficking are not only rescued but also supported on their journey towards recovery and self-reliance.