JPHRC BO -Justice, Peace & Human Rights Commission-Bo

JPHRC BO -Justice, Peace & Human Rights Commission-Bo OUR OBJECTIVES
a. To study and disseminate the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Bo and Southern region at large. b. c. d. Peace Education
4.

The Justice, Peace and Human Rights Commission (JPHRC) is a diocesan faith based institution formed in 2012 after the catholic diocese of Bo was curved out of the then Archdiocese of Freetown & Bo mandated to work on Justice, Peace& Equal Rights. OUR VISION
A just, peaceful, united and prosperous Southern region and Sierra Leone, where the Church is prophetic, and the people live as family of God

inspired by the evangelical principles and values. OUR MISSION
We are a Commission of the Catholic Diocese of Bo, which is inspired by God's love and committed to promoting and protecting the Gospel values within the Church, the State and society at large. To promote social justice, peace, human rights, good governance, democracy and integral development in the Catholic Diocese of Bo and Southern Sierra Leone at large. To network and collaborate with other actors in the promotion of peace, human rights, justice, good governance, democracy and development in the Catholic Diocese of Bo and in Sierra Leone at large. Strengthen capacity of the local Church in the Catholic Diocese of Bo to engage fully in the promotion of peace, human rights, justice, good governance and democracy in the diocese and the southern region as a whole. OUR CORE VALUES AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES
The Commission shall be guided in its operations by the following core values and principles:
CORE VALUES
Charity, Witness, Peace and Justice. GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Integrity, Responsiveness, Professionalism, Subsidiarity, Stewardship and Equity

OUR THEMATIC AREAS OF ENGAGEMENT
1. Access to Justice.
2. Conflict Prevention, Management and Resolution
3. Environmental Justice-Laudato Si
5. Public Health Emergency Response. OUR DIRECT PARTNERS
1. Parish Justice & Peace Groups (J&P Groups)
2. Holy Childhood Animators
3. School Peace Clubs (SPCs)

OUR STRATEGIC PARTNERS
1. Agiamondo
2. Missio Aachen
3. Kindermissionswerk "Die Stern Singer"
4. Religious & Traditional Leaders

Vicar General Introduces Newly Appointed Director to JPHRC StaffThe Vicar General formally introduced the newly appointe...
05/01/2026

Vicar General Introduces Newly Appointed Director to JPHRC Staff

The Vicar General formally introduced the newly appointed Director of the Justice Peace and Human Rights Commission to staff during a meeting held at the Commission’s Hall on Monday, 5 January 2025.
The meeting opened with prayer led by the Vicar General, Very Rev. Moses Kawa. In his remarks, he thanked the outgoing Director, Ambrose B. Fomba, for his commitment and dedicated service to the Commission. He explained that the purpose of the meeting was to formally introduce the newly appointed Director, Rev. Father Paul M. Sandi, Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Bo, to management and staff. He also expressed appreciation to the Bishop for the appointment and acknowledged the role played by the outgoing Director in strengthening the work of the Commission.
The session continued with self introductions by members of staff, allowing for interaction and familiarity between the new Director and the Commission team.
In his address, Rev. Father Paul M. Sandi thanked the Bishop and the Church for the confidence placed in him. He acknowledged the efforts of Mr. Ambrose B. Fomba in sustaining the Commission and advancing its mission. He stated that his vision is to develop a sustainable plan for the Commission through a clear business and strategic focus. According to him, the Commission should gradually move away from donor dependency and embrace a pastoral approach that can support its activities. He added that his detailed plans would be presented during his weekly staff meeting.
The Program Manager, Fatmata Bunting Graden, delivered the vote of thanks. She thanked the Bishop and commended the outgoing Director for his leadership, while assuring the new Director of the full support and cooperation of staff.
The meeting ended with closing prayers led by Rev. Father Paul M. Sandi and the Vicar General Very Rev. Moses Kawa.

JPHRC–Bo Concludes Third Annual Commission Assembly with Awards and Farewell DinnerThe Justice, Peace and Human Rights C...
15/12/2025

JPHRC–Bo Concludes Third Annual Commission Assembly with Awards and Farewell Dinner

The Justice, Peace and Human Rights Commission of the Catholic Diocese of Bo on Friday, 12 December 2025, held its Third Annual Commission Assembly at the JPHRC Hall, Pastoral and Social Centre in Bo. The assembly brought together members of the Board of Commissioners, parish delegates, Justice and Peace members, and Secretariat staff to review the Commission’s work and set priorities for the year ahead.

The assembly was held under the theme “Pastoral Sensitivity in the Work of JPHRC.” Proceedings began with the arrival and registration of participants, followed by breakfast. In the absence of the Bishop, the Vicar General, Very Rev. Moses Kawa, presided over key ceremonial activities, including the blessing of the refurbished hall, office space, and canteen, as well as the cutting of the tape to formally open the facilities.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman, Mr. Paul Lansana Koroma, reflected on the Commission’s mandate to promote justice, peace, and human rights through pastoral engagement and community based action. This was followed by formal introductions of delegates, members of the Board of Commissioners, and Secretariat staff.

The morning session featured remarks on the Strategic Exit Plan for the CPS Worker, presented by JPHRC–Bo consultant Kizito, alongside contributions from the Diocesan Pastoral Council representative and Very Rev. Moses Kawa, who spoke on behalf of the Bishop. Discussions focused on sustainability, shared responsibility, and the long term stability of the Commission’s programmes.

Reports from the Board of Commissioners, the Secretariat, and direct partners representing 18 parishes were later presented by Emmanuel B. Tongai, Director of JPHRC, Ambrose Brima Fomba, and Paul Foray Lahai. The reports outlined activities implemented during the year, challenges encountered, and recommendations aimed at improving impact.

After the lunch break, delegates engaged in a plenary discussion on the reports, followed by a review of the Commission’s Constitution and Personnel Manual, with emphasis on governance, accountability, and staff welfare. The afternoon strategic direction session examined a Business Development Plan centered on social capital investment as a pathway toward a more self sustaining Commission, alongside a call for strengthened resource mobilization.

During discussions on future planning, Rutile was unanimously agreed upon as the host venue for the next Annual Commission Assembly. Closing remarks were delivered by the Chairman, who encouraged continued commitment to justice, peace, and human rights work across the Diocese.

Activities continued later in the evening with a send off dinner held at the JPHRC Hall in honour of JPHRC–Bo consultant Kizito. The dinner also served as an awards ceremony, during which certificates were presented to partners, parishes, and Secretariat staff in recognition of outstanding service.

Staff awards were presented to Momoh Juana as Most Innovative Staff of the Year, Simeon Joseph Kandeh as Most Hardworking Staff of the Year, Margaret Tucker as Most Dedicated Staff of the Year, Fatmata Bunting Graden as People’s Person of the Year, Fatmata Bah as Fastest Growing Staff of the Year, Sidney Tucker as GEM, Going the Extra Mile Staff of the Year, and Ambrose Brima Fomba as Best Team Player of the Year.

The Third Annual Commission Assembly and the accompanying awards and farewell dinner reaffirmed JPHRC–Bo’s commitment to reflection, accountability, and the recognition of service in advancing justice, peace, and human rights within the Diocese of Bo.

JPHRC-BO had a fruitful engagement following the visit of the delegation from BMZ, Bread for the World, and Agiamondo on...
24/11/2025

JPHRC-BO had a fruitful engagement following the visit of the delegation from BMZ, Bread for the World, and Agiamondo on Thursday, 20th November.

The Justice, Peace and Human Rights Commission in Bo hosted the visiting team for a full day of discussions, presentations, and field interactions. The visit allowed the Commission to outline its current programmes, achievements, and ongoing challenges. It also created room for direct dialogue with the visitors on areas of support and future cooperation.

The delegation received detailed briefings from staff, met programme officers, and took part in an open session for questions and clarification. They later visited St Mary’s Compound to meet the teen mothers in vocational training, followed by a courtesy visit to Our Lady of Lourdes Parish.

The day concluded with a shared dinner with selected members of the core management team, which offered an informal setting to strengthen relationships.

The engagement provided an important opportunity for both sides to deepen understanding and reaffirm their shared commitment to human rights, social justice, and community empowerment in the region.

Happy Birthday to Our Esteemed Program Manager
10/11/2025

Happy Birthday to Our Esteemed Program Manager

Agiamondo, JPHRC-Bo, and WAVES-SL Lead Peace Day Dialogue on Drug AbuseIn a powerful show of unity and resolve, Agiamond...
07/11/2025

Agiamondo, JPHRC-Bo, and WAVES-SL Lead Peace Day Dialogue on Drug Abuse

In a powerful show of unity and resolve, Agiamondo, in collaboration with the Justice Peace and Human Rights Commission (JPHRC-Bo) and WAVES Sierra Leone, hosted a one-day stakeholder engagement to commemorate the 2025 International Day of Peace on Thursday the 6th November. Held under the theme “Our Ambition for Global Goals: Say No to Drug Abuse for a Better Sierra Leone,” the event brought together a diverse cross-section of society at the JPHRC-Bo Hall, Pastoral Centre.

The engagement convened representatives from civil society, transport unions, student bodies, and community groups, including bike riders, traders, drivers, kush survivors, and key institutional stakeholders. Notable among the attendees were Mr. Titus Mohammed Kallon, Regional Coordinator of the Peace Commission, and Mr. Foday Sesay, Local Unit Commander (LUC) of the Bo-East Division, who served as the keynote speaker.

A United Front Against Drug Abuse

The program commenced with interfaith prayers, symbolizing unity across religious lines. Director Ambrose Fomba of JPHRC-Bo delivered the welcome address, setting the tone for a day of reflection and action. Mr. George Kamara, representing WAVES SL, outlined the purpose of the gathering, stressing the urgent need to eradicate kush and other harmful substances that have devastated the lives of many young Sierra Leoneans.

Both Mr. Fomba and Mr. Kamara reaffirmed their organizations’ commitment to the national fight against drug abuse, pledging continued collaboration with communities and law enforcement to dismantle the networks fueling addiction.

A Candid Call from the Police

In a heartfelt keynote address, LUC Foday Sesay chose to speak without a prepared script, opting instead to share personal reflections as a parent and peace officer. He attributed the rise in youth drug addiction to several factors, including parental neglect, peer pressure, and societal complacency.

“Many parents focus only on providing food and shelter, forgetting to monitor their children’s behavior and associations,” Sesay lamented. He emphasized that while the government and police are committed to tackling the drug crisis, success depends on active community involvement.

“Drug dealers live among us. They are not ghosts. If we don’t expose them, we are complicit in destroying our future,” he warned. Mr. Sesay made it clear that while he is approachable and community-minded, he would show no leniency to anyone caught in drug-related offenses.

Community Voices and the Way Forward

A special session on “Emerging Issues and the Way Forward” was facilitated by George Kamara, during which participants shared firsthand experiences of how drug trafficking operates in unsuspecting corners of their communities. The session sparked practical suggestions on how residents can support law enforcement in identifying and prosecuting offenders.

Closing with a Call to Action

Fatmata Bunting Graden, Program Manager of JPHRC-Bo, delivered the closing remarks, commending all participants for their engagement and reaffirming the Commission’s readiness to collaborate with the police. “We will not hesitate to report any suspected drug activity, regardless of who is involved,” she declared. She urged attendees to return to their communities as watchdogs and advocates for a drug-free Sierra Leone.

The event concluded with renewed energy and a shared commitment to peace, health, and the protection of Sierra Leone’s youth from the scourge of drug abuse.

20/10/2025

JPHRC-Bo Concludes Landmark Workshop on Police Response to Gender-Based Violence.

JPHRC-Bo Hosts Multi-Stakeholder Workshop to Improve SGBV Response MechanismsIn a significant step towards improving how...
19/10/2025

JPHRC-Bo Hosts Multi-Stakeholder Workshop to Improve SGBV Response Mechanisms

In a significant step towards improving how Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) cases are handled, the Justice Peace and Human Rights Commission (JPHRC-Bo) has concluded a critical two-day capacity-building workshop for Bo police departments and partner organizations.

The training, held on October 16th and 17th at the JPHRC Hall at Pastoral Centre, brought together united key frontline responders, including officers from the Bo West and Bo East Police Divisions, the Rainbow Initiative, the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, and paralegals.

Focused on the theme “Enhancing Police Response to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence,” the workshop opened with a prayer and a welcome address from JPHRC Director Mr. Ambrose B. Fomba. He stressed the urgent need to equip frontline personnel with the right tools and knowledge to manage SGBV cases with both sensitivity and professionalism.

The sessions were led by a team of legal and law enforcement experts. Lawyer Samuel Toma Parker of Gbongbonti Chambers delved into the intricacies of SGBV Case Management, covering its core principles, key components, and the ethical considerations essential for upholding survivor rights and dignity. He also addressed the common challenges that can hinder effective case progression.

Providing the operational counterpart, Detective Assistant Superintendent of Police Mohamed Kanneh, the Regional Family Support Unit (FSU) Coordinator, focused on practical police work. His topics included the specific scope and roles of the FSU, established referral pathways, and the detailed investigation process with a special emphasis on victim care. He also guided participants through the FSU's Standard Operating Procedures, code of ethical conduct, and the crucial steps for prosecution and case follow-up, culminating in a concrete action plan for improved inter-agency cooperation.

Speaking to the media after the event, JPHRC Program Manager Fatmata Bunting Grading explained the initiative's core objective. “We wanted to create a space where police officers and our partners could reflect on their roles, learn from one another, and strengthen their collective response to SGBV,” she said. “The timing couldn’t be more critical.”

The workshop's impact was immediately felt by participants, who engaged actively in discussions, case studies, and practical exercises.

Kelvin Tarawallie, a Detective Officer at the Bo West FSU, described the training as “interactive and educative.” Tessie Blessing Momoh of the Rainbow Initiative praised the collaborative spirit of the sessions, and Michalla Agnes Bagolay from the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs commended JPHRC-Bo for complementing the ministry efforts in handling SGBV issues.

The workshop concluded with a certification, symbolizing a renewed commitment among all stakeholders to confront SGBV with greater unity, competence, and compassion.

Birthday Wishes to Our Esteemed Director
10/10/2025

Birthday Wishes to Our Esteemed Director

The Justice, Peace, and Human Rights Commission (JPHRC-Bo) has completed advocacy training in Pujehun and Bo Deaneries, ...
13/06/2025

The Justice, Peace, and Human Rights Commission (JPHRC-Bo) has completed advocacy training in Pujehun and Bo Deaneries, equipping direct partners and CSOs/CBOs with tools to document SGBV cases and improve information-sharing for intervention and public awareness.

With interactive discussions and hands-on learning, participants gained essential skills in structured reporting and survivor support, ensuring more effective responses to SGBV-related issues.

The initiative will continue in other Deaneries next week, further strengthening community-based strategies to combat SGBV and enhance justice efforts.

Happy birthday, Miss Esther Isata Kortu
06/06/2025

Happy birthday, Miss Esther Isata Kortu

06/06/2025

Radio panel discussion on Sexual Offences Act

05/06/2025

Radio panel discussion on environmental awareness campaign through school Peace Clubs

Address

Justice, Peace & Human Rights Commission Bo. New Gerihun Road, Pastoral & Social Centre
Bo
30

Opening Hours

Monday 09:00 - 16:00
Tuesday 09:00 - 16:00
Wednesday 09:00 - 16:00
Thursday 09:00 - 16:00
Friday 09:00 - 16:00

Telephone

+23273608088

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