Freetown: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and collaborators joined government leaders and civil society to champion women's empowerment and child protection at the 7th edition of the Strengthening Families Conference (SFC) 2025 in Freetown.
According to Ghana News Agency, the two-day Conference officially opened at the Bintumani International Conference Centre, themed 'Building Stronger Communities through Women Empowerment and Child Protection.' Madam Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, emphasized the Conference as a platform for driving lasting change and urged stakeholders to turn dialogue into action. She challenged participants to design policies that position women as change-makers in society and highlighted the transformative role women play in building families and communities.
Elder Isaac K. Morrison, from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, highlighted the importance of women in fostering harmonious and resilient communities, stating that empowerment begins within the family. Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles, representing the Inter-Religious Council, called on religious institutions to lead the charge in promoting gender equality and child welfare, underscoring empowerment as a spiritual responsibility.
Traditional leader Sheku Amadu Tejan Fasuluku-Sonsiama III emphasized the need for transformation starting at home and recognized the prosperity that comes when women are included in decision-making processes. Elder Alfred Kyungu announced plans for a 54-bed safe house to support survivors, reflecting a commitment to holistic care for young people.
Ahead of the Conference, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints undertook a renovation of the Intensive Care Units at Connaught Hospital, Sierra Leone's main healthcare facility. Professor Dr. Charles Senessie, the Acting Minister of Health, acknowledged the significance of the Church's collaboration with the government in improving health outcomes, reinforcing the vital link between healthy families and strong nations.
The next conference is set to take place in Monrovia, Liberia, in June 2026.
