Sierra Leone is one of the poorest nations on earth. More than 70% of the population are unemployed and live below the national poverty line, surviving on just 52p ($1 USD) a day. Life expectancy for women is 42 years and nearly a third of all children die before their fifth birthday.

In 2003 the country celebrated its first year of peace in over a decade. During the ten-year civil war 500,000 people were murdered, raped or left with horrific injuries and over half the population was made homeless. Vital services such as health, social care, water and sanitation still remain deeply affected.

Communities are now trying to rebuild their social and physical infrastructures. Starting again from nothing, they face the challenges of a population that is impoverished and traumatised. Lone women or frail grandparents head many households.

Additionally, Project SIerra will actively contribute to the UN Millennium Development Goals. Each child and family’s needs are individually assessed and access to food, education and healthcare are provided accordingly. Further details can be found in the Soroptimist Club Protocol, which can be downloaded from the Resources section of this site.

“The Sierra Leone project is worked out at eye level of the beneficiaries and according to their individual needs, which is very important for a successful project. The work is sustainable, efficient and warm-hearted. The staff has a good understanding how to improve the life-conditions of the poor and vulnerable people in their areas. We appreciate their hard work and the good cooperation with the chiefs and local authorities.”

SI President Hanne (pictured right) arriving at Project SIerra, Bo