SHADE-SL RECEIVES ECOWAS DIRECT ASSISTANCE FOR VICTIMS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING 

By Yusufu Sesay

Self Help and Development Everywhere Sierra Leone (SHADE-SL), a leading local non-governmental organization working on anti-human trafficking based in Kambia District, has received vital direct assistance from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), International Organization for Migration (IOM) through the Anti-Trafficking In Persons Directorate (ATIP) to support victims of human trafficking (VOTs).

The support package comprises essential food items such as bags of rice, gallons of cooking oil, alongside non-food items including mattresses, kitchen utensils, and other household necessities. The assistance is part of ECOWAS’s broader initiative to provide immediate relief and reintegration support to trafficking survivors across the West African region.

The symbolic handing over ceremony took place during the official launch of the Trafficking in Persons Survivor Network (TIPSNET) at the New Brookfields Hotel at Jomo Kenyatta Road, Freetown, on Wednesday, 30th July 2025.

The launch coincided with this year’s World Day against Trafficking in Persons Advocacy Event, held under the theme: “Human Trafficking is Organized Crime – End the Exploitation.” The event was organized by the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Welfare, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Partners.

Speaking at the event, representatives from ECOWAS emphasized their commitment to strengthening regional efforts in tackling human trafficking and ensuring that victims receive comprehensive psychosocial and reintegration support.

SHADE-SL’s Executive Director Alhaji Kolleh Yillah expressed gratitude for the timely intervention, noting that the donation will go a long way in helping vulnerable survivors rebuild their lives and regain their dignity. He furthered   that, SHADE-Sierra Leone is the only organization in Kambia district with a Safe home that provides essential service and protection to survivors of Sexual and Gender-based violence and trafficking in Persons.

The launch of TIPSNET marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s anti-trafficking efforts, providing a safe space for survivors to connect, share experiences, and access vital services. Stakeholders present called for sustained collaboration to dismantle trafficking networks and end the exploitation of vulnerable individuals once and for all.