Canadian Official Visits Sierra Leone to Witness Impact of Development Projects

_{François having a discussion with the people of Baiima in Kailahun. October 2024. Photo Credit; Save the Children}

François Holtz, a Senior Canadian Government official, recently visited Sierra Leone to observe the progress of Canadian-supported initiatives. His visit, from October 26 to November 1, aimed to see firsthand the impact of these projects on local communities.

In Freetown, Holtz met with Save the Children Sierra Leone senior management and the Foundation's project team to discuss ongoing efforts. He then traveled to Kailahun, where he engaged with adolescents and the Chairman of the Kailahun District Council. Their discussions focused on protecting adolescent girls from harm, early and forced marriage, teenage pregnancy, and providing education and life skills.

Holtz also visited the communities of Baiima and Folla, where the Foundation's project on adolescent sexual reproductive health and rights is being implemented.

In Baiima, he met with participants of a three-year project funded by Global Affairs Canada, aimed at reducing early and child forced marriage. He interacted with the Village Savings and Loan Association who are still using skills and equipment they got from the project to help themselves, their families and the community.

Throughout his visit, Holtz expressed his satisfaction with the meetings and was pleased to see the positive impact of the programs supported by the Canadian government. He acknowledged Save the Children ongoing commitment to improving the lives of adolescent girls in Sierra Leone.