Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, His Lordship Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, has called for enhanced international collaboration and increased investment in digital infrastructure to strengthen the Judiciary’s capacity to effectively handle cases of migrant smuggling and human trafficking.
He made the call during an interactive meeting at the Chief Justice’s Chambers in Freetown with senior representatives of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD). Discussions focused on improving judicial efficiency through training, technological advancement, and institutional cooperation.
Justice Kamanda emphasized that the Judiciary’s ability to successfully prosecute trafficking-related offences depends largely on access to modern digital systems and effective collaboration among key institutions. He warned that without adequate infrastructure, efforts to expedite trials and deliver justice would remain constrained.
“The Judiciary cannot succeed in handling trafficking cases without the requisite digital infrastructure and coordinated collaboration with key institutions,” he stated, referencing the roles of the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Sierra Leone Police, and the Law Officers’ Department.
He further stressed that the success of prosecution begins with proper investigation, cautioning that weak investigative processes often undermine cases before they reach the courts.
“If the groundwork is not properly done, cases are likely to fail, as the Judiciary remains independent and committed to maintaining a fair balance between the Prosecution and the Defence,” he added.
The Chief Justice also underscored the importance of continuous capacity building for judicial officers. He highlighted the role of the Judicial and Legal Training Institute (JLTI), noting that while some judges have benefited from international training, there is still a need for more specialized programmes to enhance the handling of trafficking and smuggling cases.
He encouraged the ICMPD delegation to engage the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, describing it as receptive and strongly grounded in human rights issues.
Meanwhile, the Executive Director of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force, Dehunge Shiaka, outlined the work of the Secretariat and expressed concern over what he described as inadequate national efforts to combat human trafficking. He referenced unfavourable international assessments, including reports from the United States.
Shiaka disclosed plans to recruit and train paralegals to monitor court proceedings and track trafficking-related cases. He said the initiative would help identify systemic challenges and support both the Task Force and the Judiciary in addressing gaps in case management and prosecution.
Speaking on behalf of ICMPD, Dr. Reuben Lewis provided an overview of the organisation’s work across Africa, emphasizing that meaningful progress in combating trafficking requires active judicial involvement.
“We have funding available to support institutions like the Judiciary,” Dr. Lewis said, adding that formal proposals from the Judiciary would enable ICMPD to provide targeted assistance.
Also addressing the meeting, ICMPD Project Specialist Madam Ifeoluwa Sinkay, based in Abuja, Nigeria, noted that the initiative aligns with the ECOWAS Action Plan. She explained that the project covers key areas including border management, trafficking in persons, protection of migrants’ rights, diaspora engagement, labour migration, and migration development.
According to her, the project is funded by the European Union and the Government of Denmark, with a focus on developing strategic and operational frameworks for state institutions, as well as supporting research, assessments, study visits, and cross-border cooperation.
The meeting highlighted the growing need for coordinated national and international efforts to strengthen Sierra Leone’s response to migrant smuggling and human trafficking, while reinforcing the critical role of the Judiciary in upholding justice and the rule of law.
For further information, the Judiciary of Sierra Leone has advised the public to contact its Communications and Public Affairs Unit or visit its official website.
