The Sierra Leone Association of Social Workers (SLASW) successfully held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and National Delegates Conference 2024 on 22nd November 2024 in Freetown, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of the social work profession in the country.

The event brought together members comprising of social workers, educators, policymakers, and other stakeholders from across Sierra Leone to reflect on the progress of the Association and discuss the future of social work practice. Under the theme “Strengthening the Framework for Social Work Regulation and Practice through data-driven decision-making,” participants engaged in meaningful deliberations to address key issues affecting the profession, including professional standards, ethical practice, and capacity building.

The highlight of the conference was the election of a new executive body to steer the affairs of the Association for the 2024–2027 term. Dr. Sylvester Amara Lamin was elected as President, with Umu L.K. Jalloh as Vice President and Michael Mitchell Conteh, Esq., as Secretary General. Other executive members include Assanatu Yainkain Kamara as Asst. Secretary General, Melvina Memunatu Williams (Financial Secretary), Ibrahim Hassan Koroma (Organizing Secretary), and Septimus Sahr Sandy, Esq. (Public Relations Officer).

The AGM also saw the election of regional coordinators to ensure effective representation and coordination across Sierra Leone’s regions. These include Osman Bundu Sidique (West), Mariama Alice Kamara (North-East), Alfred Kelleh Kargbo (North-West), Esther Isata Kargbo (South), and Sulaiman Hazic Lamin (East).

A Board of Trustees was also appointed, comprising George Abu Mansaray, Maurice Musa Kargbo, Zainab G. Mansaray, Winnifred Satta Kobba, and Moses Abdul Fullah. The trustees will serve as custodians of the Association’s governance and accountability framework.

In his acceptance speech, the newly elected President, Dr. Sylvester Amara Lamin, reaffirmed the executive’s commitment to advancing the social work profession in Sierra Leone. “Our vision is to strengthen social work practice, advocate for policy reforms, and ensure the protection of vulnerable populations. Together, we will work to make social work more impactful and recognized in Sierra Leone,” he said.

The outgoing executive was commended for its efforts in laying a strong foundation for the Association, including the development of a harmonized curriculum for social work education and advocacy for the Social Work Bill.

The AGM concluded with a call for unity among social workers to tackle social challenges and promote sustainable development. Participants expressed optimism that the new leadership will drive the Association to greater heights in its mission to serve humanity.