Caritas Freetown, 19 Savage Street, Freetown (2026)

05/06/2026

CARITAS FREETOWN POSITION STATEMENT ON WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY

2026 Theme: “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”

Date: 5 June 2026On this World Environment Day 2026, Caritas Freetown joins millions of people around the world in reaffirming our commitment to protecting God’s creation and promoting sustainable stewardship of our common home.

World Environment Day remains the largest international platform for environmental awareness and action, reminding us that every individual, community, institution, and government has a responsibility to safeguard the environment for present and future generations.

This year’s theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” calls on all of us to draw inspiration from nature in addressing the growing environmental challenges facing our world.

Caritas Freetown recognizes that climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, environmental degradation, and unsustainable consumption patterns continue to threaten human dignity, livelihoods, and the well-being of communities, particularly the poor and vulnerable, who are often the hardest hit by environmental crises.

Today, we join the global call to confront one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time: plastic pollution. Plastic waste continues to contaminate our rivers, oceans, farmlands, and urban communities.

Microplastics are now found in the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, and even within our bodies, posing serious risks to human health and ecosystems.In response, Caritas Freetown calls upon all citizens, community leaders, businesses, civil society organizations, faith communities, and policymakers to take concrete action by:

Reducing and Reusing: Choose reusable bags, bottles, and containers, and minimize single-use plastics.

Promoting Community Engagement: Participate in environmental clean-up exercises and awareness campaigns.

Advocating for Stronger Policies: Support regulations and initiatives that reduce plastic production and improve waste management.

Supporting Innovation: Encourage research and investment in sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives.

Practicing Environmental Stewardship: Make environmentally responsible choices in homes, schools, workplaces, and communities.

Protecting Biodiversity and Ecosystems: Conserve forests, wetlands, coastal areas, and other natural habitats that sustain life.

Promoting Renewable Energy and Sustainable Lifestyles: Reduce dependence on fossil fuels and embrace cleaner sources of energy.

We further recognize that environmental degradation is not only an ecological issue but also a matter of social justice. Marginalized and vulnerable communities often bear the greatest burden of pollution, climate change, and environmental destruction, despite contributing the least to these problems.

As a faith-based organization inspired by the Gospel and the teachings of Pope Francis in Laudato Si’, Caritas Freetown remains committed to promoting environmental responsibility, climate resilience, and sustainable development as integral parts of our mission to uphold human dignity and serve the poor.

Together, let us take decisive action to protect our environment, preserve our natural resources, and build a cleaner, healthier, and more equitable future for all.The future of our planet depends on the choices we make today. Let us act now.

Caritas Freetown,
Serving Humanity, Protecting Creation
5 June 2026

27/05/2026

Caritas Freetown Board Visits Kush Rehabilitation Centre, Reaffirms Commitment to Youth Recovery

The growing abuse of the deadly synthetic drug known as “kush” continues to destroy the lives of young people across Sierra Leone, particularly in Freetown and surrounding communities. The dangerous substance, commonly made from a mixture of tramadol, cannabis, and synthetic cannabinoids, has become a major public health crisis, leaving many young girls homeless and vulnerable to exploitation, violence, family rejection, and the loss of educational and economic opportunities.

In response to the growing epidemic, Caritas Freetown established the Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Youth Affected by Drugs (REAR) Project to provide long-term rehabilitation, counselling, healing, and empowerment opportunities for young people struggling with addiction.

As part of efforts to strengthen support for the initiative, the Board Chairman of Caritas Freetown, Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles, together with board members and management staff, paid an official visit to the REAR rehabilitation centre at Makomba Village, off Newton, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

The purpose of the visit was to assess the progress of the project, interact with staff and beneficiaries, and reaffirm Caritas Freetown’s commitment to helping young people recover from substance abuse and successfully reintegrate into society.
The rehabilitation centre provides psychological care, counselling, rehabilitation services, and vocational skills training for young people affected by kush addiction.

During the visit, board members engaged directly with beneficiaries to better understand the impact of the programme and the challenges faced by recovering youth. Among those present during the visit were Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh, Thomas Sheku Kenah, and Peter Menjor, alongside other representatives and staff of Caritas Freetown.

Between January and May 2026, sixteen young girls were enrolled in the residential rehabilitation programme at Makomba Village. Out of the sixteen beneficiaries, twelve are currently on track for successful reintegration into society through counselling, rehabilitation, and vocational skills training.

One of the twelve beneficiaries, Esther Mustapha, shared her emotional story of addiction and recovery during the visit.
Esther explained that after successfully passing both the National Primary School Examination (NPSE) and the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), she was unable to continue her education because her father could not afford her school fees.

During that difficult period, a friend introduced her to kush. She later moved from Bo to Freetown without family support, where her addiction worsened. To survive and sustain her dependency on the drug, she engaged in survival s*x work and often slept in gutters and shop verandas, facing severe hardship and exploitation. “The project has given me the courage to reintegrate into society and pursue a productive future. It has helped me become a person in society again,” Esther said.

Her journey toward recovery began when she was identified by a Caritas project staff member in Funkia and referred to the rehabilitation programme. Through counselling, psychological support, and vocational training, she successfully stopped using kush. She is currently receiving tailoring training at the centre and rebuilding her life with renewed hope and confidence.

Her story demonstrates the importance of early intervention, community referrals, professional rehabilitation services, and vocational empowerment in helping young people recover from addiction and rebuild their lives.

Speaking to staff and beneficiaries during the visit, Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles expressed appreciation to the project team for their dedication and commitment to restoring hope among vulnerable young people. He also commended the beneficiaries for choosing the path of recovery and transformation despite the many challenges they have faced.

The Archbishop described the initiative as an important effort in restoring dignity, healing, and hope to young people affected by drug addiction. He emphasized that the project reflects Caritas Freetown’s mission of supporting vulnerable individuals to rebuild their lives and become productive members of society.

Delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of the staff and beneficiaries, Murray Massaquoi, the project Manager of the REAR project, thanked the board members and guests for their continued support. He noted that the visit strengthened the confidence and motivation of both staff and recovering youth at the rehabilitation centre.

The visit highlighted Caritas Freetown’s continued leadership in addressing substance abuse and strengthening rehabilitation programmes for vulnerable young people across Sierra Leone.

Through compassion, professional care, counselling, and empowerment opportunities, the REAR Project continues to restore hope, dignity, and a second chance to young people affected by drug addiction.

27/05/2026

On this blessed occasion of Eid Al-Adha, we extend heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all our Muslim brothers and sisters, especially our colleagues, friends, and family members in Caritas Freetown and across Sierra Leone.

May this sacred celebration continue to inspire the values of sacrifice, compassion, generosity, peace, and togetherness in our homes, communities, and nation.

25/05/2026

Strengthening Partnerships for Better Healthcare in Sierra Leone

Today, Caritas Freetown held a productive and impactful meeting with Doctors with Africa CUAMM as we continue to strengthen partnerships in the service of humanity and healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone.

The meeting focused on exploring collaboration opportunities, particularly in support of the approved project for Christ the King Hospital. The proposed partnership will provide training and personnel support aimed at enhancing the hospital’s capacity and improving healthcare services for the communities we serve.

We deeply appreciate the openness, commitment, and spirit of collaboration demonstrated throughout the discussions. Partnerships grounded in compassion, professionalism, and shared humanitarian values remain vital in addressing the healthcare challenges facing our communities.

Together, through solidarity and collaboration, we continue to restore hope, protect dignity, and serve humanity.

20/05/2026

Casa Leone Hospitality Project Holds First Graduation Ceremony in Bureh Town

The Casa Leone Hospitality Project, sponsored by Fundación MAGA and implemented by Caritas Freetown, on Wednesday, 20th May 2026, held its first graduation ceremony at the Casa Leone Hospitality Training Center in Bureh Town.

The event commenced with a procession by the graduates, followed by prayers offered in thanksgiving for the successful occasion.

Delivering the welcome address, Eliza Sillah, Programs Manager of Caritas Freetown thanked attendees for their presence and expressed appreciation to Fundación MAGA for supporting the hospitality project and making the first graduation ceremony possible.

Giving an overview of the training centre, Project Coordinator Andreas Schnier said he was pleased to witness people from different parts of the country attending the ceremony. He noted that the journey had not been easy but emphasized that the project remained a success despite some challenges encountered along the way. He further disclosed that, with the support of the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and other partners, internship opportunities had been secured for graduates at various hospitality establishments across the country. He concluded by stating that the overall implementation of the project had been successful.

Speaking at the event, Idrissa Thonkla Bangura from the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs commended the Casa Leone Hospitality Project for the initiative. He stated that tourism plays a vital role in accelerating economic growth, as reflected in the Government’s Midterm Development Plan. According to him, sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and fisheries possess significant potential to improve Sierra Leone’s economy, referencing countries that have achieved remarkable economic progress through tourism development. He encouraged the graduates to uphold good customer service, describing it as the backbone of the tourism industry.

Representing the Board of Caritas Freetown and serving as the focal person for the Casa Leone Hospitality Project, Dr. Robert Moigowa welcomed guests and thanked them for attending the occasion. He described the work of Caritas Freetown as an important complement to government efforts in supporting vulnerable communities. He stated that the ceremony was not only intended to celebrate the achievements of Casa Leone, but also to send a strong message to the community that the project is sustainable and committed to long-term impact. He thanked the partners and coordinators for their dedication in making the centre successful and congratulated the graduates, encouraging them to work hard so their achievements would inspire others.

In his keynote address, Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh stated that the graduation ceremony represented more than academic achievement, describing it as a symbol of transformation and hope. He observed that Sierra Leone continues to face serious social and economic challenges, particularly youth unemployment, which often exposes young people to social vices such as drug addiction, robbery, and prostitution. He explained that the Casa Leone Hospitality Project was established to equip young people with life skills capable of opening doors to employment and self-reliance. He added that the graduates would leave the institution with knowledge, confidence, and renewed purpose. Rev. Fr. Konteh encouraged them to remain disciplined, hardworking, and committed in their future endeavors. He also expressed appreciation to Fundación MAGA, government partners, the project management team, the Board and staff of Caritas Freetown, and all those who contributed to making the hospitality training centre fully operational.

The graduates expressed excitement and gratitude for the opportunity provided to them and pledged to work diligently in order to excel within the tourism industry and inspire others to pursue careers in the sector. One of the graduates, Lansana Conteh, expressed appreciation for the opportunity, noting that he never imagined he would benefit from such training. He promised to work hard and make productive use of the skills acquired.

In conclusion, the first graduation ceremony of the Casa Leone Hospitality Project marked a significant milestone in empowering young people through vocational and hospitality training in Sierra Leone. The initiative continues to demonstrate the importance of partnerships in promoting skills development, employment opportunities, and sustainable community growth, while contributing to the advancement of the country’s tourism sector.

20/05/2026

St. Anthony’s Clinic for the Poor Hosts 3rd Annual Baby Show to Promote Maternal and Child Health

St. Anthony’s Clinic for the Poor, under the Archdiocese of Freetown, on Monday, 19th May 2026, organized the 3rd edition of its Annual Baby Show at St. Anthony’s Parish Hall in Freetown. The event brought together mothers, children, healthcare workers, partners, and community members in a celebration aimed at promoting maternal and child healthcare services.

The programme was organized in partnership with Healey International Relief Foundation and the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, whose support helped strengthen outreach efforts and improve awareness of maternal and child health services within communities.

The Annual Baby Show was dedicated to recognizing and appreciating pregnant women who faithfully attend antenatal clinic appointments, mothers who choose safe facility-based deliveries, and women who continue postnatal follow-up care after childbirth. The programme also acknowledged parents and caregivers who ensure that their children receive timely immunizations, as well as supportive fathers and partners who actively participate in maternal and child healthcare. Organizers noted that such commitment has contributed significantly to the wellbeing of children and families.

Speaking during the event, representatives from partner institutions delivered statements highlighting the importance of maternal and child healthcare in reducing preventable illnesses and promoting healthy communities. Those who addressed the gathering included Umie R. Amara, Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh, Josephine Garnem, and Dr. Desmond M. Kangbai.

The programme featured a short drama presentation demonstrating the positive impact of the clinic’s interventions on maternal and newborn health outcomes. Activities also included the distribution of gifts to mothers and children, and the recognition of nurses for their outstanding service and dedication to healthcare delivery.

The event served as a celebration of life, motherhood, responsible healthcare, and family support, while also encouraging pregnant women to continue attending antenatal clinics regularly in order to promote safe motherhood and healthy children.

In conclusion, since its establishment in 1994, St. Anthony’s Clinic for the Poor has remained committed to providing quality, affordable, and compassionate healthcare services to poor and vulnerable communities. Over the years, the clinic has continued to serve thousands of individuals, particularly women and children, ensuring that they receive the care, attention, and support necessary for healthier lives.

11/05/2026

Caritas Freetown and Partners Train Youth Facilitators Under Youth Readiness Intervention Project

Caritas Freetown, in partnership with Boston College, Grand Challenges Canada, the Ministry of Youth Affairs, and the Ministry of Social Welfare, has successfully concluded a 10-day training workshop under the Youth Readiness Intervention Research Initiative (YRI) Project.

The workshop, which ran from 28th April to 9th May 2026 at the St. Edward’s Parish Hall, aimed to strengthen the capacity of young people through targeted life skills training and psychological support. The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to promote youth empowerment, resilience, and substance use prevention in Sierra Leone.

YRI is a structured, evidence-based programme designed to build resilience, life skills, and psychological well-being among vulnerable youth. The programme equips participants with coping strategies, decision-making skills, and protective behaviours to reduce risk factors associated with substance use, violence, and mental health challenges.

The training programme was delivered through two core modules. The first, the YRI Module, focused on strengthening life skills, resilience, and positive coping mechanisms among vulnerable youth. The second, the Socio-Education Module, provided facilitators with talking therapy skills to support young people exhibiting early signs and symptoms of mental health disorders.

A total of 30 facilitators were trained to deliver the Youth Readiness Intervention across four districts: Bo, Kenema, Port Loko, and the Western Area Urban Districts. The district representation ensures broad geographical coverage and supports community-level implementation in both urban and rural communities.

The project will be implemented over a period of 18 months. The implementation schedule is divided into five distinct phases, with each phase spanning three months. During every phase, a new batch of facilitators will be recruited and trained to ensure progressive scale-up and sustained community outreach.

The YRI programme primarily targets young people who have not yet initiated substance use. However, the broader project also seeks to strengthen community capacity by training facilitators to support youth at risk of relapse and reinforce protective skills at the community level.

The opening session of the Youth Readiness Intervention Research Initiative Project brought together stakeholders from several government ministries and partner institutions. Key participants included Sister Musu Fanta Amara, Directorate of Primary Health Care and Community Health Worker Hub; Ismaila Kebbie, Deputy Director at the Ministry of Health for Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health; James B. Sandi, Director of Programmes at the Ministry of Youth Affairs; Gbangany Kanu from the Ministry of Social Welfare and Deputy Director for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS); Mrs. Eliza Sillah, Acting Programs Manager of Caritas Freetown; and Rev. Fr. Bangura, Deputy Executive Director of Caritas Freetown.

Project coordinators disclosed that the intervention will include baseline data collection before implementation, followed by post-intervention and follow-up data collection phases to assess long-term outcomes and measure the effectiveness of the programme.

At the close of the workshop, certificates were presented to the YRI facilitators in recognition of their participation and contribution to the 10-day training programme.

09/05/2026

The Executive Director of Caritas Freetown Joins Taiwan in Celebrating Tzu Chi’s 60 Years of Compassion and Humanitarian Service

With deep joy and profound admiration, the Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh, who is currently in Taiwan for the celebration, extends heartfelt congratulations to the Buddhist Tzu Chi Charity Foundation on the occasion of its historic 60th Anniversary of humanitarian service, compassion, and love for humanity.

For six remarkable decades, Tzu Chi has stood as a global symbol of mercy, solidarity, peace, and selfless service to the poor and vulnerable across the world. Through humanitarian interventions, disaster response, medical support, environmental protection, education, and compassionate outreach, the Foundation has touched millions of lives and restored hope to humanity.

On behalf of Caritas Freetown, Sierra Leone, and the many communities and beneficiaries served through this meaningful partnership, Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh expresses sincere appreciation for the strong collaboration shared with Tzu Chi in promoting human dignity, peace, compassion, environmental responsibility, and humanitarian action in Sierra Leone.

It is also deeply meaningful that Tzu Chi was founded in 1966, the same year Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh was born. As he also celebrates his 60th year of life, this milestone creates a special spiritual connection to Tzu Chi’s extraordinary journey of compassion and service.

In a world increasingly affected by war, hatred, division, and suffering, Tzu Chi continues to remind humanity that love is stronger than violence, compassion is stronger than hatred, and service to humanity remains the highest form of spirituality.

May this 60th Anniversary inspire future generations to continue building a more peaceful, compassionate, and united world.

Congratulations once again to the leadership, volunteers, partners, and supporters of Tzu Chi worldwide. May your mission of love and compassion continue to flourish for many generations to come.

01/05/2026

On behalf of Caritas Freetown, I sincerely acknowledge and appreciate the receipt of this prestigious award delivered to our office in my absence while I am away on official duties.

We receive this recognition with great humility and gratitude. I take this opportunity to thank our dynamic staff, committed volunteers, dedicated Board members, valued partners, and donors whose support continues to make our work possible.

Special thanks also go to our beneficiaries and communities for giving us the opportunity to serve them with dignity, compassion, and hope.

Caritas Freetown is truly honoured and humbled by this additional recognition. May God bless all those who continue to support our mission.

Rev. Fr. Peter A. L. Konteh
Executive Director, Caritas Freetown

01/05/2026

Message from our Executive Director as we celebrate International Labour Day.

On this Labour Day, we celebrate the dedication, hard work, resilience, and sacrifices of workers everywhere. Your efforts continue to build the foundation of our families, communities, and nation. Thank you for all that you do.

Today, we also remember and pray for those who are willing and qualified to work but remain unemployed; those struggling daily in search of opportunity; and those who desire to work but are hindered by sickness, hardship, or difficult circumstances.

May God bless every worker, comfort the unemployed, heal the sick, and open new doors of hope and opportunity for all.
Happy Labour Day.

Rev. Fr. Peter A. L. Konteh (Cool P*e)

Caritas Freetown

05/06/2026

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