Sierra Leone
In Sierra Leone, Oxfam's focus is on gender equality, health, sustainable livelihoods, and helping people have a say in the decisions that affect them.
Back to basics
In 2002, peace was restored in Sierra Leone after more than a decade of brutal civil war. The country now faces huge challenges in healing rifts in society, and rebuilding the infrastructure and institutions needed for long-term peace.
In many areas, returning refugees and former soldiers have swelled the population, placing a strain on already scarce resources. Gross inequalities in wealth distribution are fuelling a general sense of discontent.
A lot of women have been traumatised by the war, but before the war life was very good. The economy is weak nationally, and there isn't a lot of support for people. Business isn't booming at the moment. 
Kadie Jahmbull, Jembe
How Oxfam is helping
We work with communities worst affected by the war, helping them to achieve tangible improvements in their day-to-day lives through improved health, sanitation, and clean water. We are also providing training to help people rebuild their livelihoods.
Making women's voices heard
Female literacy in Sierra Leone stands at just 24 per cent. Women are among the most marginalised members of society. Many lack the power and education to have a say in the decisions that affect their lives.
Oxfam believes that if we are successfully to reduce poverty and suffering, the voices and rights of women need to be understood as equal to those of men.
How Oxfam is helping
- Promoting women's full participation in society
- Running projects to prevent the sexual exploitation and abuse of poor women and girls
- Training women in leadership skills
Other development work
- Helping people have a say in the decisions that affect their lives
- Raising awareness of poor people's rights
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