The role of the Sierra Leone government in combating rape offences regarding the sexual offenses act of 2012

Abstract

Sexual violence against women is subtle, blatant, profoundly impacts development, and is deeply embedded in the cultures. This study investigated the role of the Sierra Leone Government in combating rape and other sexual offences with the Sexual Offence Acts 2012. The specific objectives- 1) identify the drivers of rape; 2) assess the effect of rape on women and girls; 3) identify Government’s strategies for combating rape and other sexual offences in Sierra Leone regarding the Sexual Offence Act of 2012; identify the strength and weaknesses of the four essential elements related to supporting female rape victims. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The study covered Bo, Freetown, Kenema, and Makeni Cities. The population consisted of all sexual assault victims in the four cities and a sample of 120 sexually-raped victims. A panel of specialists determined the instrument's validity and reliability, calculated using Cronbach's alpha coefficient at 0.75. Data collection started on July 14, 2021, and ended on August 29, 2021. Researchers used Questionnaires, in-depth interviews, informant interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and direct observations for data collection using KoBo Collect v.1.14.0a software. Triangulation prevented the introduction of extraneous variables. The results showed that 15% of rape was associated with peer group influence, while 69.2% and 65.8% rated unwanted pregnancy and babies and Phistula disease as high. Recommended were: 1. Increase awareness creation to reduce sexual assaults among women and girls. 2. The government trains psycho-counselling specialists to reduce diseases and other sexual violence effects-trauma among women and girls. 3. The Government increased the number of magistrates handling rape cases per chiefdom and closely monitored the police.