Center for Gender and Social Justice to Hold Mental Health Awareness Walk

The Center for Gender and Social Justice (CGSJ) is set to host a Mental Health Awareness Raising Walk on Saturday, 1st November 2025, starting at 7:00 a.m. GMT prompt. The walk will begin at the Congo Cross Roundabout and end at the *Kallon Car Park, Lumley Beach in Freetown.

The event, themed “Breaking the Silence: Promoting Mental Well-being, Ending Gender-Based Violence,” aims to promote mental health awareness while encouraging conversations that reduce stigma and support emotional resilience in communities. Organizers say the walk is also designed to connect mental well-being with the fight against gender-based violence, two issues that deeply affect social stability and quality of life in Sierra Leone.

According to the organizers, participants will register for *Le 350, which includes a **T-shirt, refreshments, and free medical screening at the end of the walk. The event is expected to draw individuals from various sectors — including health professionals, gender advocates, youth groups, and community members — all coming together to promote wellness through physical activity and social engagement.

A spokesperson for CGSJ emphasized that mental health remains one of the least addressed areas in public health, despite its growing impact on families and communities. “We want people to know that taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body,” the spokesperson said. “Walking together in solidarity helps to cut stress, build support networks, and raise awareness about the importance of mental well-being.”

The walk also aims to encourage early medical consultation, reduce social isolation, and challenge harmful cultural norms that silence victims of gender-based violence. By combining mental health awareness with gender justice advocacy, CGSJ hopes to foster a more compassionate and inclusive society.

Members of the public are encouraged to participate and “cut the stress and start a walk.” For more information, interested individuals can contact +232 75 836503.

The Mental Health Awareness Raising Walk stands as a timely reminder that collective effort and open dialogue are key to promoting both mental and social well-being in Sierra Leone