Lyrical Three Crowned Winners of EU–Ballanta Gender-Based Violence Music Singing Competition

The group received the top prize of NLe 30,000, first and second runners-up Alie Baminhoma and Othman Tao were also awarded NLe 20,000 and NLe 10,000 respectively, along with full scholarships to pursue music-related studies.

EUD Sierra Leone

The grand finale drew a diverse audience of music lovers, government officials, civil society organisations, development partners, and members of the public. The event formed part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, using music as a platform to confront one of the most pressing human rights challenges in Sierra Leone.

The competition sought to raise awareness and inspire action against gender-based violence through creative expression, while amplifying the voices of young people advocating for gender equality and human rights.

EUD Sierra Leone

Over 107 video submissions from young Sierra Leoneans aged 18 to 35 were received. After a rigorous selection process by a five-member expert jury, eight finalists advanced to the grande finale, delivering performances marked by powerful vocals, originality, and socially conscious lyrics.

Madam Elvira Bobson-Kamara, Principal of the Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts, described the initiative as far more than a music competition.

"This is a platform to lift voices, break silence, and stand in solidarity with survivors of gender-based violence," she said.

The EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Jacek Jankowski, described the competition as an effort to create "a new soundtrack for change," stressing that gender-based violence remains one of the most widespread human rights violations in Sierra Leone and globally. He also warned of the growing threat of cyber abuse.

"Violence thrives in silence and feeds on shame. To defeat it, we must change the culture that enables it, and that is where the transformative power of art comes in. Music gives a voice to the voiceless, challenges harmful norms, and promotes healing," he said, praising the strong engagement of Sierra Leonean youth.

Minister of Gender and Children's Affairs, Isata Mahoi, described sexual and gender-based violence as a grave violation that weakens families and undermines society. She revealed that 183,000 cases of SGBV were reported nationwide between 2023 and 2025, describing the figures as deeply alarming.

She reaffirmed Sierra Leone's commitment to international and regional frameworks, including CEDAW, the Beijing Declaration, SDG 5, the Maputo Protocol, and the ECOWAS Gender Policy, alongside national legislation such as the Sexual Offences Act (Amended, 2019).

"Laws alone are not enough. Ending gender-based violence requires collective responsibility, community action, and cultural transformation," Dr. Mahoi emphasised.

EUD Sierra Leone

The European Union remains a committed partner in advancing gender equality, human rights, and youth participation in Sierra Leone. Initiatives such as this competition demonstrate how culture and creativity can drive social change, empower young people, and contribute meaningfully to the fight against gender-based violence.