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“We must not allow ‘pikin for born pikin’, let us continue to advice and encourage our children to grow-up and let them be prepared before making the key decision of having children of their own” the First Lady Sia Koroma said at the end of a three day workshop for Traditional and Religious Leaders (TRLs) in Bo.
The workshop on better reproductive health with emphasis on the repositioning of family planning and the official launch of the prevention of teenage pregnancy and early marriage in Sierra Leone was funded by UNFPA.
The First Lady maintained that “our youth are the leaders of tomorrow, we must therefore protect them”.
Mrs. Koroma outlined the critical role played by TRLs in educating people adding that traditional leaders are recognized as custodians of our land, customs, and heritage.
She stated that community sensitization and education on sexual and reproductive health should therefore be encouraged.
The First Lady encouraged the participants to disseminate a solution oriented approach which she said should be carried out at our homes, our religious places of worship, schools and at our local communities through effective advocacy role of our traditional leaders.
She reiterated that progress demands that “we continue to discuss the real issues related to family planning and early teenage pregnancy and not shy away because of traditional stereotypes and beliefs.
Mrs. Koroma noted that pregnancy should not be a reason for despair but celebration, “Belle Woman Business nor to sickness”, stating therefore no woman should die while giving birth.
She thanked UNFPA for their unwavering commitment and support in response to “our national strides in the reduction of child mortality and improving maternal health in Sierra Leone”
The First Lady pledged her continued commitment to serve as an advocate at both national and international levels in combating maternal child mortality and morbidity in Sierra Leone.
By Abibatu Kamara