The European Union Delegation to Sierra Leone, in partnership with the Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts, has launched a national music competition aimed at raising awareness and combating gender-based violence (GBV) against women and girls.
The launch took place on Friday at the Ballanta Academy Complex in Freetown and marks the start of activities leading up to this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
Ballanta Academy Board Chair, Dr. Julius Spencer, said GBV remains pervasive despite the country’s legal protections and is increasingly manifesting in digital forms through social media. He urged young artists to use music as a platform to challenge harmful behaviours and advocate for respect and equality.
“Art has the power to change mindsets,” Spencer said. “We want young people to use their voices and creativity to stand up against violence.”
Programme Manager Leslie Cummings-Wray said the competition, open to individuals and groups aged 18 to 35, will run in four stages over the coming months. Applications will remain open for one month, after which eight finalists will receive training and mentorship ahead of the grand finale on December 12 at the Freetown City Council.
Winners will receive cash prizes of Le 30,000, Le 20,000, and Le 10,000, along with professional training opportunities. Their songs will also be recorded and promoted as part of the wider GBV awareness campaign.
EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Jacek Jankowski, described the initiative as timely, highlighting this year’s global theme, “Ending Digital Violence Against All Women.”
“The EU remains committed to tackling gender-based violence through our work with the UN Spotlight Initiative,” Jankowski said. “But beyond laws and policies, culture and awareness are essential — and music is a powerful way to inspire change.”
Organizers said they hope the competition will continue beyond this year’s campaign, expanding to include other forms of performing arts such as dance and drama to sustain national advocacy against gender-based violence.
By Feima Sesay
