Freetown: The Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs (MoGCA), in collaboration with key development partners, conducted a validation workshop for the 'Whole-of-Government Approach Framework to End Violence Against Children' on Friday, May 15, 2026, at UNICEF headquarters in Freetown. The event aimed to review and validate a framework designed to enhance child protection efforts across the nation. According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the workshop saw participation from representatives of MoGCA, UNICEF, Save the Children, the National Commission for Children (NCC), the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Finance, the Sierra Leone Police, the Ministry of Health, and various civil society organizations. The collaborative effort focused on refining a strategy to address violence against children in multiple sectors. Assistant Director Laura Koroma, representing MoGCA's Children's Directorate, emphasized the importance of this workshop as a collaborative platform. She highlighted the nec essity of collective input to develop a comprehensive strategy aimed at combating violence against children. UNICEF's Patrick Halton provided insights into the initiative as a strategic roadmap for child safety in Sierra Leone. He pointed out that the framework aligns with UNICEF's dedication to coordinated child welfare systems and praised MoGCA's leadership while reaffirming UNICEF's support for the framework's implementation. MoGCA Deputy Director Harry Mahoi presented a draft overview of the framework and encouraged participants to provide constructive technical feedback before its final adoption. Key recommendations emerged from the participants, including the integration of the Attorney General's office and the Ministry of Justice for stronger legal protections, clearer roles for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), improved monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and sustainable financing for child-focused programs. Stakeholders also stressed the need for better inter-ministerial coordination , accountability, and inclusive approaches that prioritize children's voices. The workshop concluded with a collective commitment to finalize the strategy through ongoing consultations. Participants expressed optimism that this framework will significantly advance Sierra Leone's efforts to combat violence against children.