Liberty Online TV, Orange Foundation, and Irish Embassy Kick Off School Sensitization Tour on Online Violence
Liberty Online TV, in partnership with the Orange Foundation and the Embassy of Ireland, yesterday launched a nationwide school sensitization tour aimed at tackling online violence against women and girls. The first engagement took place in the Western Area as part of global commemorations marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
Moderating the session, Mabel Kabba of Liberty Online TV described digital abuse as a growing threat, noting that even broadcasters and public figures increasingly fall victim to online harassment. She emphasized the need for collective action, urging pupils to understand both the power and the risks of the digital world.
Speakers from LAWYERS (Legal Access for Women Yearning for Equal Rights and Social Justice), the Orange Foundation, and Sierra Leone’s former AC Milan midfielder Rodney Strasser engaged students of Annie Walsh Memorial School and Lady Patricia Kabba School on the dangers, impact, and prevention of online abuse.
Representing LAWYERS, Madame Tamuke cautioned pupils against sharing personal or sensitive content online, warning that threats to publish such material without consent are criminal and punishable by law. She encouraged girls to speak up, report threats, and seek support, reaffirming LAWYERS’ commitment to helping women and girls access justice and protection.
Footballer Rodney Strasser highlighted the positive side of digital media. He shared how he has turned his online presence—particularly his Instagram account—into a source of income. He urged pupils to focus on the constructive use of social platforms, stressing that while some misuse the internet to inflict harm, others use it to build careers, opportunities, and global connections.
Speaking on behalf of the Orange Foundation, Desmond Spaine outlined Orange Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to safeguard subscribers—especially women and girls—from digital abuse. He explained that SIM registration tied to national identification numbers is one of the measures in place to curb cyber-related crimes. Spaine encouraged victims to report cases to the police and assured that Orange can support investigations by helping trace perpetrators. He also cited two recent incidents where Orange’s systems helped locate kidnapped children.
The engagement ended with a vibrant question-and-answer session in which pupils discussed online safety, reporting mechanisms, and how to identify early signs of digital harassment.
The school sensitization tour will continue in other districts as part of Liberty Online TV’s ongoing advocacy for digital dignity, safety, and equality for women and girls across Sierra Leone.
