In preparation for the 2023 Multi-Tier Elections, the Young Women in Democracy Forum (YWDF) —led by the Campaign for Good Governance (CGG) and supported by Open Society-Africa —undertook a transformative initiative to empower young women across Sierra Leone. Through a series of Regional Electoral Education and Awareness-Raising Outreach events , the project reached thousands of young women, equipping them with the knowledge, tools, and confidence needed to actively shape the country’s democratic future.
The outreach campaign strategically covered all five regions of Sierra Leone, with sessions held in Waterloo (Western Area), Bo (Southern Region), Kenema (Eastern Region), Makeni (Northern Region), and Port Loko (Northwest Region) . In each location, 50 young women participated in engaging and informative sessions designed to demystify electoral processes and highlight the importance of political participation.
Under the guiding theme—“Making Young Women’s Voices Count in the 2023 Multi-Tier Elections in Sierra Leone” —the initiative went beyond basic voter education. It emphasized the critical role young women play not only as voters, but as advocates, candidates, and emerging leaders in governance. Participants were encouraged to see themselves not just as observers of democracy, but as active participants and shapers of it.
Through interactive workshops and expert-led discussions, attendees learned about:
The structure and mechanics of Sierra Leone’s multi-tier electoral system
How to navigate political spaces with confidence
The importance of civic responsibility and informed decision-making
Pathways to leadership and representation in public office
This effort was a key component of CGG’s broader mission: to position young women for transformative participation in democratic governance. By building their capacity and amplifying their voices, the organization is helping to ensure that young women are not sidelined in politics, but rather, are leading conversations, influencing policies, and driving change from within their communities.
As the 2023 elections approached, these outreach events served as a powerful reminder that the strength of any democracy lies in the inclusion and empowerment of its citizens—especially those who have historically been underrepresented. With more young women stepping into roles of influence and advocacy, Sierra Leone is witnessing the emergence of a new generation of leaders ready to champion transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.
The message is clear: When young women lead, democracy thrives.