By Musa Conteh
The conference was held on Thursday 27th November 2025 at the Africell – America Corner, Bathurst Street in Freetown that brought together with youth leaders, school representatives, civil society groups, and cyber security experts to address growing concerns around online abuse, digital risks, and harmful online behavior affecting young people.
Fatmata Sankoh, Executive Director of Girls Alliance, emphasized the urgency of protecting young people in online spaces.
She stated that as technology continues to shape learning and social interaction, it is important that children especially girls are provided with safe and empowering digital environments.
“Digital empowerment goes hand in hand with digital protection. Our girls must be able to participate online without fear or intimidation. Safeguarding them is not optional; it is a collective responsibility,” she said.
She Empowerment League, in collaboration with Save the Children, Plan International Sierra Leone, Girls Alliance Incorporation, and Youth Africa Movement, has concluded a two-day Digital Safety Awareness Conference aimed at promoting responsible digital use and ending violence against all.
Representing She Empowerment League, Ibrahim Charlie Wright, Head of Partnership, highlighted the importance of collaboration among youth organizations and development partners.
He said the initiative aims to equip young people with the knowledge and discipline required to use digital platforms responsibly.
“The internet must be a tool of progress, not a source of harm. With strong partnerships and sustained awareness, we can build a culture of respectful and responsible digital engagement,” Wright noted.
Delivering a technical session, Mr. Bartholomew, Head of Cyber Security at the Office of National Security (ONS), spoke on the critical issues of digital consent, privacy, and online accountability.
He cautioned young people about the consequences of irresponsible online behavior and stressed the need to respect personal boundaries and data protection.
“Every action online leaves a footprint. Understanding digital consent helps protect both yourself and others. Accountability is key to maintaining a safe cyber environment for all,” he emphasized.
The two-day conference featured group discussions, digital safety demonstrations, and awareness sessions focused on cyberbullying, data protection, safe online communication, and reporting mechanisms for digital abuse.
Organizers described the event as a major step toward reducing online violence and equipping young people with the tools to navigate the digital world safely and confidently.
