About Us
WHO WE ARE
Defence for Children International – Sierra Leone (DCI-SL) is a local, grassroots non-governmental organisation that was founded in 1998 to promote and protect the human rights of children in Sierra Leone. We are the Sierra Leonean chapter of the worldwide movement of Defence for Children International and the representative of ECPAT International in Sierra Leone. DCI-SL is registered with the Ministry of Development and Country Planning as a national NGO. DCI-SL has an observer status with the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.
Our main objectives are to respond to the specific needs of children, particularly those in vulnerable situations, and to contribute to the continuous strengthening of the national child protection and welfare system in Sierra Leone.
We seek a Sierra Leone where children have a voice and are protected in both law and practice.
We are committed and focused on the human rights of children and strive to empower them as active agents of change.
Where We Work
Defence for Children International - Sierra Leone has district officers Western Area, Moyamba, Bo, Kenema, and Bombali districts and implement cross cutting and rocket programmes in Pujehun, Kambia, Karena, and Tonkolili districts. At regional and international level, we also implement programmes to end gender-based violence and promote the economic inclusion of girls and young women, ensure access to quality education, combat child trafficking and enhance protection for children on the move, and enhance youth activism.
THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY is DCI
Sierra Leone’s governing authority. It is composed of 40 registered persons, ten (10) persons (five (5) males and five (5) females) all elected and representing each of the four regions of Sierra Leone: Western region, Eastern region, Northern region, and Southern region. They meet up one time in three years to steer the implementation of the Strategic Framework of the organisation.
THE REGIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEES
composed of six members and shall be headed by a Vice-President and composed of a Secretary, Treasurer, Outreach/Advocacy Officer, and two (2) child representatives, and elected through a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote in a fair election process.
THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Sierra Leone’s governing authority. It is composed of eight members and includes the President, Secretary, Vice-Presidents of all regional executive committees and two voting members elected every three years during the General Assembly. They meet up to four times per year to steer the implementation of the Strategic Framework of the Movement
THE INTERNATIONAL SECRETARIAT
acts as operational coordinator and focal point for DCI – Sierra Leone and shall compose the national administrative and programme officers headed by the Executive Director. While the Administrative Offices shall be permanent and composed the Executive Director; Head of Programmes; Head of Finance; Administrative Manager; Programme Manager(s); Advocacy and Communications Officer; Logistics Officer; and Administrative Secretaries, the Programme Offices shall exist only when needed to complete DCI – SL’s plans, activities, and programs and composed the Project Officer(s), Lawyer(s), Social Worker(s), Support Staff, Other Staff;
| Names | Positions |
|---|---|
| President | |
| Executive Director | |
| Head of Programmes | |
| Head of Finance | |
| Administrative Manager | |
| Programme Manager(s) | |
| Advocacy and Communications Officer | |
| Logistics and Administrative Officer | |
| Administrative Secretary |
