Freetown: Outgoing UNICEF Country Director Rudolf Schwenk paid a farewell courtesy visit to the Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs, celebrating a longstanding partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone focused on child protection and welfare.

According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the meeting, hosted by Minister Dr. Isata Mahoi, brought together ministry officials and UNICEF representatives to review achievements, ongoing programs, and future collaboration strengthening child protection systems nationwide.

Schwenk praised the strong coordination between UNICEF and the ministry in addressing issues affecting children and vulnerable groups. He emphasized the role of policies, legal frameworks, advocacy, and resource mobilization in advancing children's rights and safety. Commending Dr. Mahoi's leadership, he noted, 'Your availability is quite important,' applauding her responsiveness and support for UNICEF's interventions.

He highlighted joint initiatives from his tenure, including the Spotlight Initiative, advocacy campaigns through the Child Friendly Network (CFN), and legislative support reinforcing child protection mechanisms.

Minister Mahoi reaffirmed the government's commitment to sustaining the collaborative relationship with UNICEF, thanking the organization for amplifying vulnerable children's voices and strengthening protection systems. She described Schwenk's tenure as impactful, citing milestones such as the May 2023 launch of the GBVIMS+ (his first official assignment), support for the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, contributions to the Child Rights Act of 2025, development of the Alternative Care Policy, and the nationwide residential care census with Statistics Sierra Leone.

Chief Director Charles Vandi also commended Schwenk's landmark achievements. Other UNICEF representatives called for continued collaboration on referral systems for persons with disabilities via GBVIMS+, capacity building for service providers, and establishing a parliamentary caucus for children.

The meeting ended with mutual appreciation for Schwenk's service, as ministry officials wished him success in his future endeavors.