report - toshpa diaspora ebola response... · the outbreak of ebola in sierra leone in early 2014...
TRANSCRIPT
Report
The Sierra Leone - UK Diaspora Ebola Response Taskforce (SLUKDERT) Meeting
Date: 29 November 2014
Venue: Herbert Smith Freehills LLP, Exchange House, Primrose Street, London EC2A 2EG
CONTENTS
Foreword ................................................................................................................................................................ 5
Executive summary: ............................................................................................................................................... 6
Background to the meeting ................................................................................................................................... 7
Aims .................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Objectives: .......................................................................................................................................................... 7
Desired outcomes ............................................................................................................................................... 7
Format .................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Presentations ....................................................................................................................................................... 10
Memuna Janneh of Lunchbox Gift .................................................................................................................... 10
Morris Marah of the SENSI project ................................................................................................................... 10
Theodora Hamilton of Women’s Response to Ebola in Sierra Leone (WRESL) ................................................ 11
Elizabeth Conteh of The Organisation Of Sierra Leonean Health Professionals Abroad (TOSHPA) ................. 12
The Hon. Jane Ellison, Minister for Public Health ............................................................................................. 13
Film: .................................................................................................................................................................. 13
Breakout sessions ................................................................................................................................................ 14
Survivor families and primary carers................................................................................................... 14
Treatment: ebola patients, people suspected of infection, non-ebola patients ................................ 14
Healthcare Workers: front-line medical staff, burial teams ............................................................... 14
Economic actors: Farmers, traders, the employed, the unemployed ................................................. 14
Children: orphans, school-aged children ............................................................................................ 14
Vulnerable groups: disabled, elderly, at-risk communities ................................................................. 14
Workshops: discussions and recommendations ................................................................................................. 16
Workshop 1: Survivor families, primary carers (with particular focus on women) ........................................... 17
Key Learnings: ............................................................................................................................................... 17
Key Challenges: ............................................................................................................................................. 17
Action Points and Next Steps:....................................................................................................................... 17
Workshop 2: Treatment: Ebola patients, people suspected of infection, non-ebola patients ......................... 19
Key Learning: ................................................................................................................................................ 19
Key Challenges: ............................................................................................................................................. 19
Action Points and Next Steps ........................................................................................................................ 19
Workshop 3: Health Care workers, Frontline Medical staff and Burial teams .................................................. 21
Key Challenges .............................................................................................................................................. 21
Learning opportunities ................................................................................................................................. 22
Summary of Recommendations and Action Points ...................................................................................... 22
Workshop 4: Economic actors: Farmers, traders, the employed, the unemployed .......................................... 25
Key learnings ................................................................................................................................................. 25
Key Challenges: ............................................................................................................................................. 25
Summary of Recommendations ................................................................................................................... 26
Workshop 5: Children: orphans, school-aged children ....................................................................................... 28
Key learnings ................................................................................................................................................. 28
Key Challenges .............................................................................................................................................. 28
Action Points ................................................................................................................................................. 29
Kaday Mansaray, a SLUKDERT member – on behalf of songlome .................................................................... 29
Workshop 6: Vulnerable groups: disabled, elderly, at-risk communities .......................................................... 31
Key learnings ................................................................................................................................................. 31
Key Challenges: ............................................................................................................................................. 31
Action Points: ................................................................................................................................................ 31
UK DIASPORA MAPPING – Ival Cummings-John ................................................................................................. 32
Freetown (Western Area) ............................................................................................................................. 32
North............................................................................................................................................................. 32
East ............................................................................................................................................................... 33
South ............................................................................................................................................................. 34
Across the country ........................................................................................................................................ 34
Table: Charities/Organisations working against Ebola ................................................................................. 35
Representation: UK Diaspora – geographic areas of support .............................................................................. 36
Map: areas with current health facilities in Sierra Leone: November 2014 ...................................................... 36
quotes from some attendees: ............................................................................................................................. 38
Special Thanks ...................................................................................................................................................... 38
More thanks ......................................................................................................................................................... 38
Event Management Team ............................................................................................................................ 38
Photos: All photos courtesy of Chukwu Emeka Chikezie (SLUKDERT member) ........................................... 39
About the Sierra Leone - UK Diaspora Ebola Response Taskforce (SLUKDERT) ................................................. 39
List of Registrants and Attendees ........................................................................................................................ 41
What now /where next? ...................................................................................................................................... 44
The ‘post-meeting’ landscape: ............................................................................................................................ 44
Collaboration between SLUKDERT and NOSLINA ............................................................................................. 44
SLUKDERT membership survey ......................................................................................................................... 44
References and resources: ........................................................................................................................... 45
FOREWORD
The outbreak of Ebola in Sierra Leone in early 2014 signalled an unwelcome raising of the country’s
profile. The outbreak caught the attention of the world and triggered an unprecedented outpouring of
offers to assist the country in dealing with the disease. A major aim of this meeting was to highlight and
build upon the many ways in which the worldwide Sierra Leone Diaspora responded and continues to
respond to the crisis.
There are many reasons why the Diaspora can bring a unique and vital element to the fight against
Ebola, including.
Having already-existing relationships with their country of origin or heritage – sending
remittances, supporting alma mater and various home-based NGOs and charities, among
many activities
Knowledge of the socio-economic landscape and holders of a ‘cultural memory’ of their home
country, not available to the non-Sierra Leonean
A desire to see and participate in the development of their home nation and acting as
advocates in various forums
Having a foot in two camps (many are dual citizens)
The broad range of attendees reflected the wide range of current interests as well as the wide range of
areas - both geographically and thematically - where Diaspora members wanted to assist and make a
difference. Many of the desired outcomes were aspirational and many applied not only to the Diaspora
but to the home government and other actors.
The Sierra Leone UK Diaspora Ebola Response Taskforce was set up to harness the best of UK Sierra
Leonean diaspora skills and resources to respond to the Ebola crisis. To this end, the Taskforce serves
as an interface between the main stakeholders addressing the Ebola crisis and the UK Sierra Leonean
diaspora; it helps to coordinate efforts undertaken by Sierra Leonean diaspora organizations and
individuals; and it undertakes specific assignments that are better done by the Taskforce than by
individual organizations, such as mobilization of diaspora healthcare and other professionals to assist
with the Ebola response, and harnessing of resources to shift a significant volume of essential medical
supplies to Sierra Leone.
The taskforce organised this meeting to foster links between UK-based Sierra Leone Diaspora
organisations as well as to facilitate dialogue, capture current initiatives and encourage the sharing of
best practice. It bears mentioning that the meeting was held at the time when the outbreak appeared to
be at a peak; as such, by the time this report was published (January 2015), it was clear that there
appeared to be an improvement in the situation in Sierra Leone. Nonetheless, as many of the
discussions addressed wider issues beyond Ebola, they deserve wider dissemination.
Ade Daramy
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The meeting captured the views of a wide range of groups and allowed organisations to learn about
and link up with those pursuing the same or similar aims.
The meeting was attended by many Sierra Leone Diaspora organisations and individuals working to
combat Ebola. This report captures most of the deliberations, decisions and instances of cooperation
arising from the meeting.
There appeared to be a genuine desire for this to be the first, not a ‘stand-alone’ event and there were
encouraging signs of genuine attempts for collaborative working.
Many of the discussions and initiatives indicated a willingness to play a part in assisting in the post-
Ebola situation to address many of the shortcomings in the socio-economic fabric exposed by the
outbreak.
It was clear that some important organisations (particularly the area/district descendants’ associations)
were noticeable by their absence. Steps will be made to reach out to them for any future events as they
have a significant role to play. The meeting was able to capture a lot of good contact details and there
were clear signs of organisations agreeing to work together in the future.
The taskforce recognized the constraints on a wholly volunteer organisation while committing to
continue to facilitate dialogue between organisations, link fundraising efforts and to collaborating with
other Diaspora organisations.
Among the priorities identified were:
Establishing a network of Sierra Leone Diaspora teachers to feed into and collaborate with
teachers and institutions in Sierra Leone. This included seeking links with distance learning
while the schools lockdown continues
The mapping exercise described in the report highlighted a desire for better coordination of
efforts between the Diaspora and home-based groups
For the taskforce to set up bespoke seminars/conferences around specific professions to look
at how they might contribute to the Ebola and post-Ebola efforts in the country
For the taskforce to take the lead in reaching out to Diaspora organisations outside the London
area
For the taskforce to continue with its ‘diaspora mapping’ exercise to understand who's doing
what, where (and who wants to do what, where) by reaching out to more Sierra Leonean
diaspora groups
For the taskforce to signpost individuals and groups to where there is most need
Provide vulnerable people in SL information on organisations that cater for their needs
BACKGROUND TO THE MEETING
According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 31 December 2014 Situation Report, there have been 20,206 reported cases of Ebola virus disease and 7,905 reported deaths across all the three worst-affected outbreak countries, Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. Sierra Leone accounts for 9,446 reported cases (47% of the three countries’ total). WHO notes that Ebola Virus Disease “transmission remains intense in Sierra Leone, with 337 confirmed cases reported in the week to 28 December, 2014 – more than double the number of cases in Guinea and Liberia combined” and is at its most intense in Sierra Leone’s western and northern districts. As Ebola continued to ravage Sierra Leone, it was clear that, in addition to international efforts to
combat the outbreak, there was a significant role and contribution the Sierra Leone Diaspora could
make. The Sierra Leone UK Diaspora Ebola Response Taskforce (SLUKDERT) which was formed in
response to the outbreak and includes a wide spectrum of Diaspora Sierra Leoneans organised this
meeting to facilitate cooperation between UK-based Diaspora organisations in responding to the crisis
and working with organisations on the ground. As such, it was good to see the widest possible
spectrum of actors represented at the meeting: NGOs, charities, alumni associations, legal, medical
and recruitment organisations, were among some of those present.
Implications for development were at the forefront of the discussions.
AIMS
a) To foster constructive dialogue and stronger coordination in the Diaspora response to the
Ebola crisis
b) To enhance our existing information sharing system relating to Ebola
OBJECTIVES:
a) An opportunity for attendees to share their response to the Ebola crisis
b) To highlight the key activities of the taskforce and its specific operational projects – i.e. the HR
roadshow and the shipment of 10 containers
c) For workshops to be action oriented – participants were asked to look at practical inexpensive
and simple steps that can be immediately implemented to enhance their response to the Ebola
crisis
d) To provide a networking opportunity and to share best practice
DESIRED OUTCOMES
a) Greater understanding of clusters around which Sierra Leonean diasporas in the UK are
responding to Ebola crisis
b) At least six areas of discussions, wherein attendees would commit to collaborate around
common interest to implement initiatives, share learning, etc.
c) Unity and sense of common purpose is in evidence
In setting the scene, attendees were encouraged to look at how they could contribute by addressing
three main aspects of the Diaspora’s reaction: (1) challenges they face as individuals or members of
organisations, (2) lessons learned from those challenges and (3) how they could contribute, particularly
by collaborating with fellow Sierra Leoneans or friends of Sierra Leone with shared interests.
FORMAT
There were presentations from invited speakers followed by a series of breakout sessions around
specific themes.
Rebecca Perlman welcomed us on behalf of our hosts, Herbert Smith Freehills, followed by a short
introduction by current SLUKDERT chairman, Ade Daramy.
Ade Daramy spoke of some of the Sierra Leone Diaspora responses thus far to the Ebola crisis,
including fundraising by individuals and organisations; why SLUKDERT was formed and what its aims
are/ the division of SLUKDERT’S efforts into five ‘pillars’ (Human Resources / Education / Equipment &
Supplies / Fundraising / Communications - and why this was done). As well as raising funds, he went
on to say that SLUKDERT members have been involved in national healthcare workers recruitment in
tandem with UKMed, the port-side loading for shipping supplies to Sierra Leone, in conjunction with our
Deputy High Commissioner, Tamba Mansa Ngegba and some of the mission staff, and taking part in
various conferences (chairing, as panel or audience members) and seminars on Ebola across the UK.
SLUKDERT was a signatory to UKSLHP's open letter to Justine Greening, Secretary of State for
International Development, calling on the British Government, to, amongst other things overturn its
decision to revoke the direct flights licence of Gambia Bird airline. In addition, members have
contributed to radio and TV broadcasts about Ebola, to give the Diaspora voice, written articles for
websites, magazines and newspapers.
Mention was made of SLUKDERT’s fundraising and collaboration with American organisation, the
National Organisation of Sierra Leoneans in North America (NOSLINA) to send medical supplies and
equipment, utilising the ‘air bridge’ (a method established to send by air rather than sea, much needed
supplies to Sierra Leone from America). One such shipment was due in January 2015 and was
expected to be the first of many. Ade also mentioned that the current outbreak had implications for both
the economic development of the nation and wider infrastructural issues.
We were joined by His Excellency the High Commissioner, Eddie Turay (pictured below)
The High Commissioner commended the initiative and reminded all that the idea for a Diaspora
Taskforce had first been proposed at a meeting organised by the High Commission.
As well as asking attendees to focus their deliberations around the three themes (challenges, lessons,
collaborations), they were encouraged to seek opportunities for greater understanding and linking of
clusters around which the Sierra Leonean Diaspora could respond to the Ebola crisis, thereby building
networks of related organisations;
Panellists were asked to talk not only about the work they were doing but also any challenges they
faced and how they were able to overcome them.
PRESENTATIONS
MEMUNA JANNEH OF LUNCHBOX GIFT
A Sierra Leonean living in the U.K., she founded Lunchbox Gift in response to the Ebola outbreak. Her
organization delivers fresh, nutritious meals to Ebola treatment centers, health workers, and patients in
Freetown.
Memunah: “We initially provided 2,600 hot meals to vulnerable communities in Freetown during the
Ebola lockdown in September, and later rolled out a new scheme to supply balanced meals to patients
and health workers at treatment centers in Freetown. It aims to provide 50,000 meals in total.
Recovered Ebola patients and health workers have found that eating nutritious meals is key to building
enough strength to fight the disease. Lunchbox Gift provides freshly cooked meals to communities in
crisis.
“We are currently providing nutritious meals to Ebola treatment centers in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Our
meals help to aid recovery and provide sustenance for nurses, doctors, and other front-line staff battling
to take control of the Ebola epidemic.”
Visit: http://www.lunchboxgift.com/
MORRIS MARAH OF THE SENSI PROJECT
An ICT for Development (ICT4D) specialist, recently returned from Sierra Leone, gave an impassioned
account of what he saw on the Frontline in Port Loko District. He spoke about the SENSI project, which
he initiated with a group of doctors and ICT4D (ICT FOR Development) ‘techies’ to support efforts to
combat the Ebola crisis in West Africa. The group members include The London School of Hygiene and
Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Ebola Response Taskforce, Sierra Leone High Commission, EpiAfric,
Konektaz, the Sierra Leone Diaspora Taskforce and Crown Agents. SENSI’s core aims are to establish
mechanisms to distribute accurate and culturally appropriate information about the Ebola virus disease
in Sierra Leone (SL), with a view that the project may be extended to other countries efficiently should
the disease spread and to identify, collate and challenge misinformation (myths and conspiracies)
which is hampering humanitarian efforts, creating suspicion and increasing the spread of the disease.
THEODORA HAMILTON OF WOMEN’S RESPONSE TO EBOLA IN SIERRA LEONE (WRESL)
Theodora told the meeting about the initiative, which was launched in July 2014 by a coalition of
individuals and women’s groups including the Women’s Forum, the 50/50 Group of Sierra Leone,
MARWOPNET, L.A.W.Y.E.R.S, SLPP Women’s Wing, Sky Women’s World Network, CGG, The
Sierra Leone Market Women’s Association, Devil Hole Women’s Group, Partners Women’s
Commission, AMNET, Christian Aid, NCOMWO and Community Response to Ebola, to contribute to
and complement government’s efforts to fight against EVD.
The Campaign has undertaken the following initiatives, among many:
- Contributed to review and finalise UNICEF & MOHS Training of Trainers Manual on
Community Sensitisation on Ebola
- Supported the operations of the MOHS Ebola Information Line & Free Call Centre (117)
o by educating the public about Call 117,
o providing a Ramadan Holiday donation to appreciate the professional staff of the Call
117 Centre;
o and by recruiting and training member volunteers in the prevention of EVD, public
hygiene & hand washing as well as operation of the free Call 117 Ebola Information
line.
- Promoted the establishment and operation of a Special Needs Sub Committee of the National
Taskforce as well as active participation in the Social Mobilisation Sub Committee of the
National Taskforce on EVD.
- Fundraised for, procured and installed Hand Washing Facilities in 6 market locations; Butchers’
Association (Meat Market), Salad /vegetable market (Magazine Cut), Kola nut Area (Magazine
Cut) and Russia Market (Raw Fish) and Kallay Field Market in the Western Area.
- Established and operated a Drop by Collection and Storage Centre at 50/50 office at Tower Hill
in Freetown for public donations of materials to be used in the fight against Ebola.
- Commenced regular prayer sessions observed simultaneously by Muslim and Christian women
in Sierra Leone and abroad under the theme: ‘No Distance in Prayer for Healing, Reconciliation
and Unity against EVD’.
WRESL Campaign can be reached at 50/50 Headquarters, Rokel Street, Tower Hill, Freetown.
Please contact Maseray Koroma on +232-79-318-749 to find out how you can support the Campaign.
ELIZABETH CONTEH OF THE ORGANISATION OF SIERRA LEONEAN HEALTH PROFESSIONALS
ABROAD (TOSHPA)
As current Chair of the premier organisation representing Sierra Leonean, Elizabeth explained how
the reasons for the organisation’s founding (to contribute to Sierra Leone’s healthcare by forming links
and working with government and NGOs) was very relevant in the current crisis. She explained that,
to this end, TOSHPA members within SLUKDERT had not only worked with the Department for
International Development (DFID) and UK-Med in the recruitment of healthcare professionals during
this crisis but had also played a pivotal role in the cultural sensitivity training for those due to go to
Sierra Leone. In addition, some members of TOSHPA were due to or had already been deployed to
Sierra Leone.
Elizabeth finished with a plea to those healthcare professionals not already members of TOSHPA to
consider joining to better harness their efforts for now and the future.
THE HON. JANE ELLISON, MINISTER FOR PUBL IC HEALTH
The minister mentioned the close ties between Great Britain and Sierra Leone and the leading role the
British Government has taken in tackling the outbreak in Sierra Leone. She mentioned the £125m
pledged by her government, the role the British forces are playing including the building of healthcare
facilities (including one at Kerrytown), the presence of the ship Argus and that the Chief Medical Officer
had written to National Health Service staff encouraging them to volunteer for up to 6 weeks.
FILM:
There was a short film on Ebola by 11-year old Alusine Conteh which was played on a loop throughout
the meeting.
BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Workshops were divided into six areas:
SURVIVOR FAMILIES AND PRIMARY CARERS
TREATMENT: EBOLA PATIENTS, PEOPLE SUSPECTED OF INFECTION, NON-EBOLA
PATIENTS
HEALTHCARE WORKERS: FRONT-LINE MEDICAL STAFF, BURIAL TEAMS
ECONOMIC ACTORS: FARMERS, TRADERS, THE E MPLOYED, THE UNEMPLOYED
CHILDREN: ORPHANS, SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN
VULNERABLE GROUPS: DISABLED, ELDERLY, AT-RISK COMMUNITIES
Attendees were asked to choose a preferred workshop, based on where they wished to contribute or an
area of particular interest.
Facilitators were given clear instructions as to how they should stimulate discussions and encourage all
to participate – we worked on the assumption that all in attendance either had something to say,
something to learn or both.
At the end of the session, each team nominated the facilitator or other group member to report back to
the whole meeting.
In reporting back, each group presented the solution(s) their group had come up with for future
collaborative working.
A physical map of Sierra Leone was used to identify areas where organisations have already directed
their resources as well as where more help is needed in order to devise strategies for improving,
coordinating, sharing and reporting on our responses – attendees were encouraged to stick post-it
notes on the geographical area, together with their intended intervention/action. In this way, likeminded
individuals and organisations could identify and establish links.
WORKSHOPS: DISCUSSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The workshops provided an opportunity for delegates to share best practice and learning. Each
workshop focused on key challenges and recommendations were made regarding which strategies
could be made in both the immediate and long term.
Attendees contributed greatly (and intelligently) to both the post-panel Q&A and the six breakout
sessions, which discussed and encouraged dialogue and partnerships within the Diaspora and between
Diaspora and non-Diaspora actors around the following topics.
From going around the room, it was evident that, as was to be expected discussions were animated,
intelligent and passionate. All the facilitators did a great job in ensuring the participants always returned
to the topic at hand and they are to be commended for their sterling efforts in this regard.
Some key recommendations and actions from the workshops included:
Psychological education of communities about stigmatisation of survivors of Ebola through targeted multimedia outlets such as radio, posters, billboards and comic strips
To work out a national and possibly international policy on caring for Ebola orphans
Create Ebola survivors’ network groups at community level and across the country
Proper segregation to ensure EVD and Non-EVD patients are not mixed up
Education is essential to ensure the right and timely information is accessible to the people that need it
Extend insurance and treatment support to non-frontline medical training staff
Need for an interactive digital map mirroring the information on the static map provided by
SLUKDERT for monitoring current organizations in the regions
Diaspora finance: there is scope to creating an online funding platform e.g. crowd funding,
where investors could be matched with investment.
WORKSHOP 1: SURVIVOR FAMILIES, PRIMARY CARERS (WITH PARTICULAR FOCUS ON
WOMEN)
Facilitator: Ival Cummings-John
This workshop looked at the stigmatisation of Ebola survivors and how to re-integrate them into society
in the future (there were examples of survivors being evicted from their homes). It also focused on
culturally sensitive methods to prevent this stigmatisation
KEY LEARNINGS:
Lessons learnt from reintegration and reuniting ex-combatant of the civil war in Sierra Leone
could be used for reunification of Ebola survivors with their families in their communities.
For there to be a focus on empowering women as they tend to have a stronger community
influence.
Charity organisations and other voluntary groups should work collaboratively to maximise
support for survivors and their families.
KEY CHALLENGES:
Community accepting to live side by side with Ebola survivors.
Over-coming stigma for survivors in their communities by empowering survivors to tell their
stories. Their accounts of resilience and survival can inspire hundreds of others, address
misconceptions and help fight stigma.
Bringing survivors, families and primary carers together and coordinating the survivors’ group
was agreed to a big challenge due to stigmatisation from the society.
Providing homes for the Ebola survivors, families and carers for Ebola orphaned children.
ACTION POINTS AND NEXT STEPS:
Psycho-education of communities about stigmatisation of survivors of Ebola through targeted
multimedia outlets such as radio, posters, billboards and comic strips.
Reintegration of Ebola survivors in their community with their families.
Community outreach work on self-confidence building of survivors.
For survivors to share their stories and perspectives with the world.
Create Ebola survivors’ network groups at community level and across the country.
WORKSHOP 2: TREATMENT: EBOLA PATIENTS, PEOPLE SUSPECTED OF INFECTION,
NON-EBOLA PATIENTS
Facilitator: Elizabeth Conteh
KEY LEARNING:
The workshop did not particularly highlight key learning about Ebola and non-Ebola patients because
delegates were at different stages of their engagement with the Ebola crisis. Nonetheless, it captured
some worthwhile discussions and suggestions.
KEY CHALLENGES:
Inadequate Ebola treatment centres across the country with areas such Port Loko reporting
high number of Ebola recently. Some of the existing treatment centres lack adequate safety
standards and systems.
Inadequate incentives for local volunteers with many of them working without any payment.
This is having a negative impact on trust and relationship between the workers and the
authorities.
Lack of adequate information for victims’ families – in some cases it is unknown whether
someone had actually died of the EVD.
Inadequate capacity across the country, exacerbated by poor co-ordination.
Backlog at existing specimens testing laboratories eventually causing delays in providing test
results.
Lack of data for healthcare workers, except doctors, who have died from the EVD.
Diaspora connecting efforts on the ground to enhance direct response where it is needed.
ACTION POINTS AND NEXT STEPS
Neighbourhood watch to be established
Sensitivity to the burial process particularly for families of those who have died
Proper segregation to ensure EVD and Non-EVD patients are not mixed up
Education is essential to ensure the right and timely information is accessible to the people that
needs it
Fundraising for relevant projects for now and post Ebola Incentives for the burial team including
salaries of those on the front line to be paid on time. Diaspora funds and equipment to go to the
right place at the right time.
WORKSHOP 3: HEALTH CARE WORKERS, FRONTLINE MEDICAL STAFF AND BURIAL
TEAMS
Facilitator: Isabella Lisk
KEY CHALLENGES
Accountability for the distribution of donated funds was a common issue brought up by all
workshop attendees.
o They identified a lack of formal control systems in place, and often monies and
equipment sent were distributed in an ad hoc way with no satisfactory or formal
accounts given of the disbursements. This led to a feeling of mistrust both for donors
and recipients, and although this was a problem across the board for all groups, it
affected the healthcare workers particularly hard, as they were dis-incentivised, having
already made sacrifices by putting themselves and families at highest risk working on
the frontline
Proper distribution of PPE equipment to all healthcare workers in public and private sectors.
o Many private operatives and non-frontline staff were not being provided with PPE’s,
with the concentration of distribution aimed mainly at the treatment centre staff, when
other sectors of healthcare workers, whether private or in other care centres also
needed a level of protection as they also came in contact with the public
The current health system was overwhelmed, which left health workers unsupported, highly
exposed to risk and unable to treat pre-Ebola conditions.
o There was an unexplained high incidence of infection and deaths amongst local staff
which concerned all attendees. This was put down to the long shifts being worked by
local staff and the different standards of training and tolerance level to exposure from
expat staff.
There was a need for proper training for using equipment and PPE’s to combat the high
mortality rate amongst the local healthcare workers.
o Some groups like KDDA had sent supplies and equipment in the earlier stages of the
outbreak, but did not have established distribution routes; staff also needed training on
how to use the equipment.
A lack of adequate number of trained staff and the need to recruit from other sources – e.g. the
military to support such services such as burials.
Lack of access up to date information at the Sierra Leone High Commission in London, which
was regarded as the natural central point of call for many of the support groups represented at
the table was highlighted by several attendees.
There was a lack of targeted funding for a training budget.
No insurance or evacuation plan was available for non-frontline medical training staff.
New treatments like Ozone Therapy were not properly trialled or rolled out to healthcare
workers who are seen as a priority group for receiving any new treatment.
Conspiracy theory was still rife in the face of a lack of answers concerning the outbreak and its
spread, for staff and their patients.
o Led to mistrust and lack of co-operation from staff who could not adequately assess
the risk to themselves and patients.
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Using existing and local knowledge in villages and existing community leaders to form local
partnerships and ensure co-operation.
o Assistance with speed and cutting through red tape
Talking to elders and village chiefs to assist with information distribution.
Using established and trusted communication links for disseminating information.
Use of existing resources e.g. the recruitment map put together by the National Ebola
Recruitment Drive to identify which organisations were on the ground.
Using the Liberian model of digital training to roll out to frontline healthcare workers in Sierra
Leone and radio infomercials,
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS AND ACTION POINTS
Area Recommendations Potential Partnership
Opportunities
Training Raise awareness of sanitation and hygiene issues
via radio and face to face training of staff via ; pay
particular attention to the slum areas of the city
Sponsor purchase of computer tablets to aid
training, via scenarios built into computer programs
Interpreters required
to translate broadcast
into local dialects, and
record voiceovers for
existing programs buy
Masanga Mentor NGO
Potential partnership
with Ken Bolshaw of
Praxis, a source for
good quality electronic
goods from China at a
reasonable price
PPE’s Identify the employers and local health centres and
groups for efficient distribution of PPE’s to all sector
of frontline healthcare workers
Roll out digital video game app to healthcare staff –
based on a pyramid of levels to complete, and
simulates the steps needed to correctly wear and
remove PPE’s.
Develop a gold standard of training based on the
WHO model
Customise the PPE digital training programme for
the following unique groups
Local
Volunteer
Expat groups
Suggested Via
TOSHPA
Masanga Mentor NGO
are already in the
process of developing
the training software
and are looking for
training staff and
funding
Burial teams Getting the military to assist the burial teams who
are greatly stretched and routinely strike for pay; to
get involved with burying the dead and building new
centres.
Lobby SL Government
Information
Centre/Portal
Need for up-to-date information on the current
organizations in Sierra Leone
Need for an interactive digital map mirroring the
information on the static map provided by
SLUKDERT for monitoring current organizations in
the regions
Up to date information portal consolidating Ebola
related news , progress reports and initiatives
Improve literacy rates and means of communication
among healthcare workers via radio programs.
SLUKDERT via event
report
End Ebola Now, NGO
to make links available
to their digital maps
Via CEDRIC
Via the SLUKDERT
Reports
Recruitment Roll out of National Ebola Response Recruitment
Drive
Going to communities and offering WHO training
Use of established communications links
National Ebola
Response
Recruitment drive
being run by End
Ebola Now.
General
Support
Continue to provide vital assistance via cooked food
delivery to Healthcare workers and Ebola affected
families.
Extend insurance and treatment support to non-
frontline medical training staff
Lunchbox
Information is required
from existing
organisations such as
TOSHPA and UKMed
to explore the
possibility of
negotiating similar
concession to this
group of healthcare
workers
WORKSHOP 4: ECONOMIC ACTORS: FARMERS, TRADERS, THE EMPLOYED, THE
UNEMPLOYED
Facilitator: Georgina Awoonor-Gordon
KEY LEARNINGS
The session highlighted that people were at different stages of their engagement with the EVD crisis. It
was accepted that learning would be on-going and that this was area to be revisited in the future to
capture these matters in different ways and in greater depth.
KEY CHALLENGES:
Access is difficult to and within quarantined communities
Impact on tourism and other sectors is immense
Weak legal structures (contracts, procurement processes, ease of doing business) further
exacerbate an already fragile situation
Agriculture needs special focus as it affects food security as well as incomes. It was stressed
that the Diaspora could play a key role in supporting regrowth of agriculture
Communication:
o What is the role of the Diaspora in raising awareness about EVD?
o How can Diaspora access pertinent information on the crisis and how best can they
contribute?
Livelihoods: how can we support access to livelihood opportunities for young people, especially
for Ebola orphans?
How do we nurture young leadership by providing mentoring, coaching or some level of
psychosocial support?
Post-Ebola: most of the above relate to both emergency and long-term approaches. However,
more specific post-Ebola questions posed were:
o How do we address infrastructural challenges?
o How do we strengthen weak institutional structures: procurement and issuance of
contracts?
o How do we maintain the integrity of partnerships? How do we make room for law in the
reconstruction sector?
We need to prepare a framework for a thriving economy
This workshop divided the areas into Enterprise development and Systems and Structures. There is
scope for taking these conversations further. The suggestion has already been made to have more
focused / thematic working groups which could carry these recommendations forward. The group
advised against reinventing the wheel so any further work will need to start with a mapping of the sector
/ environment to avoid duplication. Another over-arching point made was the need to take a pan-African
/ regional approach to some of these recommendations.
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
Area Recommendations Potential Lead Orgs / Individuals
(N.B: that these names only reflect
workshop participants)
Enterprise Development Job creation
Utilise workforce on the ground by training
survivors and increasing income
opportunities by creating employment in
Ebola Treatment Centres for example (Risk
will have to be appropriately managed)
Lunch Box
Aid Solutions (young people)
Agriculture
Supporting agri-business
Jacqueline Gooding Perrett
MSMEs
Vital and transferable skills being
nurtured now can be built upon across
various sectors in the post-Ebola
recovery
Building capacity of our youth via
leadership programmes (mentoring,
coaching)
Sweissy Union
AFFORD
Soul of Africa Leadership
Communication
Using a multi-pronged approach to rebrand
SL as (re) open for business
Network Salone
Systems and Structures Legal Structures
To rebuild the country’s economy requires
robust Governance, Legal and Financial
institutions, processes and policies. This
requires:
Strengthening systems and processes
to enable greater transparency and
corporate legal protection.
It is important for there to be the
appropriate political will to further these
aims and to use a bottom ↔ top
Lawyers: Rebecca Perlman, ,
Eldred Taylor-Camara,
Yasmin Jusu- Sherriff)
Finance: what role can
SLUKDERT play in facilitating
Diaspora finance?
approach to ensure any changes are
rooted at all levels.
There have already been steps in the
right direction e.g. a newly established
Legal partnership between SLG and a
British legal firm which is currently
working to addressing the above.
Labour laws are currently being
reviewed to address barriers to
investment and economic growth.
There is still a lot to do e.g.
Land Rights need to be reviewed and
awareness raised at community level.
This is vital especially when addressing
food security and agri-business
Local Content policy needs to be
reviewed and implemented.
Enabling environment – there needs to
be better coordination and
transparency between the public,
private and third (NGOs) sector.
Infrastructure needs to be supported for
any other investment to be sustainable:
electricity, water, housing
Diaspora finance: there is scope to
creating an online funding platform e.g.
crowd funding, where investors could
be matched with investment
WORKSHOP 5: CHILDREN: ORPHANS, SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN
Facilitator: Amifa Kebe-Kamara
KEY LEARNINGS
The session did not particularly highlight key learning about education of children because there is
scope to take the conversation forward with a possibility of a more focused workshop in this area.
However, the session managed to address the major areas of concern.
KEY CHALLENGES
Teachers’ salary arrears
Lack of transportation for school children
Access to learning for children in very remote rural areas – chiefs are key contacts
How to implement solutions without the risk of spreading Ebola
Learning resources for radio including the need to circulate appropriate hand-outs and leaflets.
ACTION POINTS
Teachers’ Association to be setup
Innovative ways of delivering interactive educational programmes including the use of tablets,
podcasts and video clips and WhatsApp
Improve access to library resources include through mobile library
Donations of books and radios to include main Towns and rural areas difficult to reach
Organise private classes
Rollout leadership programmes
Promote existing networks/organisations including the BBC that promote or deliver a broad
range of learning resources
Expand access to learning through distance learning opportunities
KADAY MANSARAY, A SLUKDERT MEMBER – ON BEHALF OF SONGLOME
Kaday spoke about the challenges facing the education system and highlighted this inistiative as one
solution to addressing the education needs of children confined to their homes.
Schools in Sierra Leone were closed in June 2014 and remained so at the time of this meeting. Kaday
Mansaray explained about Sondiata Global Media’s aim of distributing at least 5,000 educational
tablets to school-going children using the ZEduPad.
Why Educational Tablets?
Ability to continue learning during the crisis
Tried and tested with positive results
Has worked in countries similar to Sierra Leone
Tablets will benefit users (and their families) after the crisis
We live in a Global Village – how long will we allow the children of Sierra Leone to be left
behind?
We have all experienced the benefits of technology – how long will we allow the children of
Sierra Leone to be left behind?
It has been successfully in:
Zambia; Nigeria; Ivory Coast; South Africa
Sondiata are seeking partners to be able to deliver this initiative.
Call Khadi Mansaray (Kaday): 07938627817 or Email: [email protected]
WORKSHOP 6: VULNERABLE GROUPS: DISABLED, ELDERLY, AT-RISK COMMUNITIES
Facilitator: Yasmin Jusu – Sheriff
KEY LEARNINGS
The workshop reported that key learnings about vulnerable groups were yet to be discerned due to the
challenges of getting relevant information in this area. However, discussants agreed that there were
signs of improvement as more agencies pooled or shared their data from their various areas of interest
or intervention.
KEY CHALLENGES:
Lack of information on; Who, What, Where and needs of vulnerable people across Sierra
Leone
Lack of effective links between diaspora and local Sierra Leonean organisations.
Hunger, health and logistical needs not being met.
Sierra Leonean organisations lack the capacity to ‘outreach’ to the diaspora
Distrust of in-country mechanism
TOSHPA lacks presence across the UK
ACTION POINTS:
SLUKDERT to provide a platform to bring together Sierra Leone based organisations and
Diaspora organisations
Scan the Diaspora for resources and expertise
TOSHPA to reach out geographically to get experts from the healthcare profession
Advocacy to highlight issues of detention; custody over-crowding and hygiene
Access to legal system and court issues
Provide vulnerable people in SL information on organisations that cater for their needs.
UK DIASPORA MAPPING – IVAL CUMMINGS-JOHN
The UK Diaspora are making great efforts across Sierra Leone in the fight against Ebola. Many of the
organisations that are doing their bit to help are organisations that have been established for many
years. As a result of the Ebola some have had to change the way in which they operate, focusing more
on Ebola and less on their usual projects.
Organisations were asked to bring information about the work they are doing in Sierra Leone and place
them on a map to give participants an understanding of where the support and where it was lacking.
This report outlines what the different the organisations said they were doing and highlight where the
gaps are. We recognize that there are many other Diaspora projects taking place in Sierra Leone that
we are not aware of and that this is not an exhaustive list and does not undermine the works of others.
FREETOWN (WESTERN AREA)
Lunch box in partnership with two NGOs based in Sierra Leone (Campaign for Good Governance
and YACAN), and with the permission of the Government of Sierra Leone, provided 2,600 hot
meals to seven vulnerable communities in the capital city, Freetown. (http://www.lunchboxgift.com)
SLEA Awards is contributing free transportation for shipping to Sierra Leone. The organisation has
said that they will be sending a shipment of 50% food, 30% medical and clean product and 20%
clothes. (http://www.sierraleoneexcellenceawards.org )
SoA (Soul of Africa) Leadership continues to offer leadership training for young people, as well as
establishing library facilities. They have been conducting surveys to find out what the needs of young
people during this time of Ebola and post Ebola.
NORTH
A - Scholars International Movement is supporting education in Gbinti village, raising funds ready to
support the children in school as soon as they are allowed to return back to school.
http://www.ascholars.co.uk
Better Lives foundation is working directly in Yonibana Sai Hospital.
(http://www.betterlivesfoundation.org)
Help Madina are broadcasting public health messages as well as education through the radio in the
Madina District. Help Madina has also taken on the responsibility for neighbourhood watch, health and
water sanitation in this area.
http://www.helpmadina.org.uk/
Kabia Descendants Association is supporting Ebola survivors with food packages. They have gifted
survivors with 25kg bags of rice and Le20, 000 per survivor.
Kamagjengbeh Primary School, Biriwa Chiefdom, Bombali District, is receiving supporting with
stationary/items ready for when the children are allowed to return back to school.
MARWOPNET a sub-regional peace building women’s network established Radio MARWOPNET FM
88.4, it is currently focusing on broadcasting public health messages as well as broadcasting EDUCAID
empowerment by radio tutorials for school children in Gbalamuya, Kambia district.
(http://mysierraleoneonline.com/sl_portal/site/news/detail/2394)
Masanga/SLAA – Masanga Hospital (Tonkilli District) Masanga Mentor training initiative is to stop the
spread of Ebola by teaching communities throughout West Africa to handle the virus safely. They aim
to facilitate Ebola safety training for 450,000 Community Health Volunteers in 15 countries across West
Africa.
http://masangahospital.org/
Sierra Leoneans (UK) United Against Ebola have taken on the task of raising funds for medical
teams through various fund raising activities in the UK including sponsored silences and sponsored
walks.
EAST
Kids in Kailahun – An organization working in the Kailahun area with orphans since 2009. Now
responsible for all new Ebola Orphans in one of the areas of Luawa Chiefdom. They have erected
“Tippy Taps” and are educating the children in relation to hygiene and hand washing as a preventative
measure.
(http://www.kidsinkailahun.org )
KDDA UK have set up an EBOLA UK EMERGENCY FUND (KEEF). KDDA UK has been working with
the Kono District Council and the Ebola Task force committee in Kono in protecting clinical staff and
spreading the message about precautions to the grassroots. They have sent its personal protective
wear, boxes of chlorine powder and antimicrobial hand gels to 14 chiefdoms in the Kono District,
Eastern Sierra Leone.
Salia Jusu- Sheriff Foundation – Support to Radio MOA to share public health messages and collect
stories; Food distribution to vulnerable elderly; Support to WRESL with Ebola sanitization in 11
Chiefdoms in the Kenema District.
SCCAN – Awareness, information, outreach, screen, social activities
(http://sccan.org.uk )
YSSOSTFA – Raising standards of the school, Teacher training, library project, Science Lab Project
SOUTH
SoA (Soul of Africa) Leadership – leadership training for young people, library facilities, thinking
about scholarships
ACROSS THE COUNTRY
SLWT is a charity that works through partnerships to promote education, health, rehabilitation and self-
sufficiency of children and youth in Sierra Leone through advocacy and the provision of financial and
technical support, had distributed 875 raincoats to “Okada” riders as at 10th September 2014, SLWT
had; of which 750 of these were distributed in Freetown. Furthermore by the 6th October 2014 they had
supplied 165 of its targeted 600 hand washing stations. 125 of the hand washing stations have been
distributed through the Freetown City Council to poor and deprived communities around Freetown, with
a further 40 hand washing stations distributed through the National Council of Paramount Chiefs to two
needy chiefdoms in Moyamba District (Ribbi and Timdale) and to parts of Port Loko District.
(http://www.slwt.org)
WRESL (Women’s Response to Ebola Sierra Leone), a coalition of women’s organisations
established to tackle the outbreak, which is helping to educate women about the disease and providing
hand washing facilities with soap, water, drums and accessing water supply to all the 42 markets in
Freetown, then furthered their support to Bo, Bombali, Port Loko, Kenema.
TOSHPA is capacity building healthcare workers across Sierra Leone, providing equipment for
government hospitals, nurses and medical institutions. (http://www.toshpa.org.uk)
EBOLA SENSI project is involved in Community Engagement, Capacity Building and Survivor Support
across Sierra Leone.
It is clear that a lot of work is taking place across Sierra Leone, covering different aspects of Ebola. The
North seems to have received the most help from the Diaspora so far, with the South receiving the
least. The spread of Ebola is constantly evolving week in and week out, so it becomes difficult to keep a
track of where the most help is needed. This information needs to come direct from Sierra Leone. There
has been a considerable amount of funds raised to send out equipment and medical supplies. It is also
clear that charities are already beginning to recognize the Ebola survivors and orphans and are working
their best to support them.
TABLE: CHARITIES/ORGANISATIONS WORKING AGAINST EBOLA
Area Support
Western Area
SoA
SLEA
Lunchbox
PPE Equipment
Water Sanitation
Rain coats for Okada Riders
Medical supplies
Food supplies
North
Sierra Leone UK united against Ebola
Masanga
Kamgjenbeh
KDA
Medical Supplies
Support for orphans and children
Education support
Supporting specific hospitals
Radio broadcasting – Public Health,
Education
Water Sanitation
East
KDDA
Kids in Kailahun
SCCAN
YSSOSTFA
Salia Foundation
Education
Community outreach
Support for Orphans
Radio Broadcasting – Public Health
Food supplies
South
SoA
Education
Whole Country
TOSPHA
SLWT
WRESL
Food supplies
Sanitation
Capacity building of healthcare workers
Community Engagement
Capacity Building
Survivor Support
Medical equipment
DIAGRAM - REPRESENTATION: UK DIASPORA – GEOGRAPHIC AREAS OF SUPPORT
The map below shows areas in Sierra Leone where health centres of various sizes and capabilities had
been established as at the date of the meeting
MAP: AREAS WITH CURRENT HEALTH FACILITIES IN SIERRA LEONE: NOVEMBER 2014
The Above map is from Healthsites, a global mapping site:
About Healthsites
The Global Healthsites Mapping Project is an initiative to create an online map of every health facility in
the world. The framework has been built for capturing, publishing and sharing critical health facility
related data and to help make these facilities more accessible and relevant to the communities they
serve. In the future we plan to support additional domains where it is helpful in humanitarian work.
The map will record the contact details, location and resources available at every hospital, health post
and rural healthcare clinic. No such healthsite data currently exists. We are making the data freely
available to anyone via the Internet.
By simply clicking on the map users can drill in to learn what healthcare facilities exist at any global
location and find out what resources exist at any individual healthcare facility.
The Healthsites Map will be of great value to members of the public, to health ministries and healthcare
providers, and will be invaluable to first responders in emergency relief, disease epidemic and crisis
situations. http://healthsites.io/
QUOTES FROM SOME ATTENDEES:
○ “I feel a new and real sense of purpose in working with others around defeating Ebola”
○ “’I’m really glad I came as I would not have known otherwise that there are so many
others working in this area”
○ “It was great to hear about the common challenges others are facing and I now know
that I’m not alone.
○ I’ve made some great contacts and some friends today”.
○ “I loved the fact that we were asked to focus on how we could tackle the challenges
and not just whinge about the difficulties we are facing”
○ “When is the next one of these?”
SPECIAL THANKS
We say a huge vote of thanks to our hosts for the day, Herbert Smith Freehills who provided
us with a venue, refreshments and availed us of the services of a significant number of their
staff on a weekend. About Herbert Smith Freehills (from their website:
http://www.herbertsmithfreehills.com/ )
Members of the firm also belong to Sierra Leone’s Pro Bono Network.
A very special mention has to go to Rebecca Perlman of Herbert Smith Freehills, without whom,
much of this would not have been possible.
MORE THANKS
EVENT MANAGEMENT TEAM
Chukwu-Emeka Chikezie, Ival Cummings-John, Ade Daramy, Unisa Dizo-Conteh, Amifa Kebe-
Kamara, Isabella Lisk, Rugiatu Wurie, Gina Awoonor-Gordon, Achmed Kamara and Sahr
Fasuluku, all of whom worked tirelessly and dedicatedly in the planning and delivery of the
event.
Victoria Stephens (above) of the Insolvency Service, not a SLUKDERT member, who
volunteered her services for check-in duties on the day.
Following the meeting, Victoria organised a successful fundraising night at the famous Ritzy
cinema in the heart of Brixton, South London
PHOTOS: ALL PHOTOS COURTESY AND COPYRIGHT © OF CHUKWU EMEKA CHIKEZIE (SLUKDERT
MEMBER)
ABOUT THE SIERRA LEONE - UK DIASPORA EBOLA RESPONSE TASKFORCE (SLUKDERT)
The Sierra Leone UK Diaspora Ebola Response Taskforce (SLUKDERT) is a strategic partner of
diaspora organisations and individuals with the aim of raising awareness, engaging with and motivating
our community to respond effectively to the Ebola crisis in Sierra Leone. SLUKDERT acts as an
interface between the main stakeholders, including appropriate UK government ministries addressing
the Ebola crisis and the UK-based Sierra Leonean Diaspora. The latter include alumni associations,
descendants’ associations, charities, representatives from mosques, churches, NGOs and more. We
are passionate about coordinating efforts undertaken by Sierra Leonean Diaspora organisations and
individuals in the fight against Ebola.
Where there are gaps in Diaspora efforts, we undertake specific assignments which have included on-
going recruitment of healthcare professionals, shipment of essential medical supplies and equipment
and bringing together organisations with shared aims. We are not an umbrella group but one that
catalyses, facilitates and encourages sharing of best practice and coordination of effort.
In coordinating our efforts, we have subdivided our efforts into 5 ‘streams’ or ‘pillars’, namely:
I. Education
II. Equipment & Supplies
III. Communications, Lobbying and Advocacy
IV. Finance and Fundraising
V. Human Resources
Within SLUKDERT we have people with all the skills reflected in those pillars and members align
themselves to the pillars they feel they are best suited to.
Current members of the taskforce include the following (in alphabetical order): Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr;
Georgina Awoonor-Gordon Chukwu-Emeka Chikezie; Alhaji Conteh; Elizabeth Conteh; M’ballu
Francess Conteh; Ival Cummings-John; Ade Daramy; Unisa Dizo-Conteh; Victoria Gordon; Amifa
Kebe-Kamara, Anita Koroma; Isabella Lisk; Khadi Mansaray; Milton Margai; Faith Okrafo-Smart; Sitnah
J Palmer; Janet Sam-King, Sahr Fasuluku, Dr Achmed Kamara, Eldred Camara-Taylor.
Contact us: Email: [email protected]
Our activities are recorded on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kick-Ebola-Out-Of-Sierra-Leone/1462845790664314#!/sierraleoneukebola?hc_location=timeline All of us are volunteers. We ‘meet’ two or three times a week using electronic conferencing (Zoom or Skype).
LIST OF REGISTRANTS AND ATTENDEES
Sierra Leonean Diaspora Ebola Response, Saturday 29th November 2014
Organisation First Name Surname
N/A Alfred Aberdeen
Next Step Initiative Harry Agyako
Unite 4 West Africa Thomas Armitt
Network Salone John Awoonor-Gordon
SLUKDERT Georgina Awoonor-Gordon
Praxis Keith Bolshaw
Kings College Hospital Viviane Brackenbury
Soul of Africa Leadership Catherine Casolani
SSM Balogun Melvin Chalobah
Up!-Africa Ltd Chukwu-Emeka Chikezie
Masanga Hospital/Sierra Leonean Adventists
Abroad Edward Cole
SLUKDERT Unisa Dizo-Conteh
SLUKDERT and Sweissy Union Alhaji Conteh
TOSHPA and SLUKDERT Elizabeth Conteh
SLEA/ ACYC Aminata Conteh
SLUKDERT Ival Cummings John
Soul of Africa Leadership Joy Cummings-Jones
SLUKDERT Ade Daramy
National Ebola Response Recruitment Drive Maryam Darwich
Project ACEi Alimatu Dimonekene
MUSAC house of caring Francess Easmon
YSSOSTFA Dian Fasuluku
SLUKDERT Sahr Fasuluku
Kids In Kailahun Andrew Galland
London Sustainability Exchange Baindu-Lisa Gobio-Lamin
SLWT Dennis Green
WRESL Theodora Hamilton
St Mungos Broadway Housing Association Hannah Hughes
LunchBoxGift Memuna Janneh
Sierra Leone Cancer Charity (VIJI) Jacqueline John
WRESL Yasmin Jusu-Sheriff
Kabia Descendants Association (KDA) Morloh Kabia
NHS Fatu Kalawa-Conte
Disabled International Foundation Imambay Kamara
Kabia Descendants Association (KDA) Armin Kamara
SLUKDERT Amifa Kebe-Kamara
Soul of Africa Leadership Steve Knights
Middlesex university Pastor Gloria Lebbie
SLUKDERT Isabella Lisk
N/A Mamakoh Magona
Mansary Consulting and Sondiata Global
Media Khadijatu Mansaray
N/A Rahmatu Mansaray
Sierra Leone Matters Milton Margai
N/A Martha Massaquoi
Adullam Missions Rev. Tamba Eric Mbayo
University of Sussex / Pure Associates Abbie Mead
N/A Fromme Mee
Recytec-IT Joe Momoh
Sickle Cell Awareness Network (SCCAN) Dingiswayo Nyandemo
Sickle cell carers awareness network Sia Evelyn Nyandemo
AFFORD UK Emma Orefuwa
Better Lives Foundation Devi Patel
Better Lives Foundation Raj Patel
N/A Jacqueline Perret
health education advocacy for development Roy Robinson
University of Sussex David Rubyan-Ling
A-Scholars Mariama Samba
Sierra Leone High Commission Abdul Sankoh
HelpMadina Veronica Sawicki
JMC Medical Research Jay Sea
Lunchboxgift Sukaina Sesay
helpmadina Rohit Sethi
Sierra Leone Cancer Charity (VIJI) Ronita Shaw
N/A Isabella Smith
Herbert Smith Freehills Judith Smyth
Kono District Development Association Aiah Sodengbe
EngAyde Alberta Stevens
SLUKDERT Eldred Taylor-Camara
news deeply Kate Thomas
NHS Aiah Tondoneh
Karma Cola UK Albert Tucker
WRESL Nabeela Tunis
Stand Up for Africa (SUFA) Momo Turay
Sierra Leoneans (UK) United Against Ebola Sam Walker
N/A Lati Wilson
TOSHPA Natasha Gbani-Banya
TOSHPA Fatmata Krusat
EngAyde Rugiatu Wurie
God is our Light church Theresa Yongai
WHAT NOW /WHERE NEXT?
The taskforce to look afresh at the signposting individuals and groups.
Greater strides to be made in leveraging technology to assist people get help as well as
information, to make their own productive contribution to Ebola and post-Ebola Sierra Leone; it
is too costly to provide a human-intermediated service.
To seek opportunities for various pillars within the taskforce to partner with other Sierra
Leonean groups in the distribution of resources on an equitable, needs-driven basis across
Sierra Leone and in the collection and sharing of best practice
THE ‘POST-MEETING’ LANDSCAPE:
COLLABORATION BETWEEN SLUKDERT AND NOSLINA
In January 2015, the UK and USA Sierra Leonean diaspora cooperated to airlift $85,000 worth
of medical supplies for emergency Ebola relief.
Members of the Sierra Leone UK Diaspora Ebola Response Taskforce and the National
Organization
Of Sierra Leoneans in North America (NOSLINA) collaborated to airlift 26 pallets of urgently
needed medical supplies and equipment worth $85,000 to Sierra Leone on January 3, 2015.
On November 24 2014, the chair of the Taskforce, Ade Daramy, and the Executive Director of
NOSLINA, Suna Nallo, signed a memorandum of understanding committing their two
organizations to collaborate.
The agreement enabled the Taskforce to take advantage of NOSLINA’s relationship with Airlink
through which humanitarian aid is airlifted to hotspots on favourable terms; its relationship with
Medshare that makes available high quality surplus medical supplies and equipment at heavily
discounted rates; and NOSLINA’s well-established procedures for securing expedited clearing
of medical aid with authorities in Sierra Leone.
The SLUKDERT Education Pillar has organised an event for 7 March 2015 in London under
the banner “Books, Babes and Beyond Ebola” to address some of the issues raised at this
meeting.
SLUKDERT MEMBERSHIP SURVEY
In January 2015, SLUKDERT carried out a survey of members to identify specific areas where they
would like to contribute and on whether they wanted a role in a post-Ebola Diaspora organisation.
A headline of the survey was that the majority thought that there should be a role for the taskforce or
something like it in a post-Ebola Sierra Leone. Of 20 respondents to the survey, only 2 said they
wanted to end their membership once the Ebola crisis is over.
REFERENCES AND RESOURCES:
EngAyde is a group of concerned Sierra Leoneans, dedicated to developing a reliable and
trustworthy one-stop-shop online platform that is focused on connecting, catalysing, and
influencing decisions and actions to help bring a swift end to the Ebola crisis and its long term
effect on Sierra Leone. In relation to influencing, we also consider ourselves to be an
advisory/advocacy group that applies pressure where necessary. See: www.engayde.org
"Unlocking disaster paradigms: An actor-oriented focus on disaster response."
"The domain of local disaster response is constituted by the manifold ways in which local
people cope with emergency, maximising their own capacities, resources and social networks.
People anticipate disaster and rely on themselves and their community folks for survival. It has
been estimated that no more than 10% of survival in emergencies can be contributed to
external sources of relief aid." Hilhorst, Dorothea. 2003.
http://ipcc-wg2.gov/njlite_download.php?id=6263
Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health and Sanitation provides regular updates on Ebola on its
website: http://health.gov.sl/
Community Ebola Toolkit
“‘Community level action is an essential element in achieving equity in global health” – quote for CHGN from Professor Peter Piot, Director of Global Health, LSHTM, and co-discoverer of the Ebola virus. The CHGN Ebola toolkit is a collection of resources that we hope will be of use to many of the organisations, agencies and individuals working to address the Ebola outbreak in English-speaking West Africa, particularly those engaged at the community-level.
This toolkit is available in USB format. To order, please email us with your name, location,
organisation and the number of USB sticks you would like. We will respond as soon as
possible.
Please email them at [email protected]