According to the reliable sources during my visit to Sierra Leone is the least developed country in the world. Over 70% of the population survive on less than a dollar a day. Sierra Leone has the highest child mortality rate in the world.

Although democracy is slowly being re-established after the civil war (1991 to 2002) there remain many challenges. The war resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of more than 2 million people (about one-third of the population). Infrastructure and services, including health care, education, sanitation and water, were severely damaged and remain so to this day.

Children were particularly affected. Over 15,000 were kidnapped, with thousands forced to fight or in the case of girls, used as sex slaves by the rebel forces, many becoming pregnant as a result.

Although the conflict has now ceased, its impact continues to be felt, particularly by children. Many have lost their parents or been rejected by their families and communities as a result of their involvement with the rebels, forcing them to the streets and making it impossible for them to access education and the support they need.