Save the Children International in Sierra Leone has formalized a five-year partnership with the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), signifying a significant step towards enhancing disaster preparedness and response, with a particular focus on the welfare of children.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed by representatives from both organizations, solidifying their commitment to working together to safeguard the lives and well-being of children in Sierra Leone during emergencies, disasters, and humanitarian crises.

Deanne Evans, Director of Programs and Operations at Save the Children, emphasized the organization's primary goal of ensuring the protection and care of children, especially in times of crises. She underscored the importance of the partnership with NDMA, highlighting the agency's pivotal role in disaster and humanitarian prevention and response activities.

Lieutenant General (Rtd) Brima Sesay, NDMA Director General, expressed the agency's anticipation for the signing of the MOU and provided insight into NDMA's role in implementing government policies on disaster risk reduction, prevention, and climate risk management across Sierra Leone. He commended Save the Children for its significant interventions, including timely donations, equipment provision, disaster response, and training.

The signing of the MOU was accompanied by a donation of essential items, including 10 cartons of laundry soap, 100 pairs of assorted slippers, 200 pairs of children's socks, used clothing for both adults and children, toothpaste and brushes, sanitary pads, laundry soap, 20 dozen pants, plastic buckets, and various school-related materials.

The partnership between Save the Children and NDMA underscores the critical importance of collaborative efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations, particularly children, during times of crisis. Both organizations are committed to working together to strengthen emergency preparedness and response mechanisms, ultimately contributing to the resilience and protection of communities in Sierra Leone.