To date, CenHTRO’s programs in Sierra Leone tripled the number of survivors identified and served. Nearly 2,000 government officials, judiciary and law enforcement members, and community leaders received training on how to prevent human trafficking. Investigations, arrests and prosecutions of trafficking cases increased. CenHTRO also helped influence national legislation in Sierra Leone and regional policies across West Africa to help protect all people from human trafficking for generations to come.
“We’ve made a difference at the highest levels of power and in the smallest village,” said CenHTRO Director David Okech, professor in the School of Social Work. “It has only been possible through dedication and cooperation of our local staff in Sierra Leone as well as the support of a local think tank that advises our work. CenHTRO staff and faculty have worked extremely hard to use a data-driven approach in reducing child trafficking in Sierra Leone.”