Reflecting on 16 Days of Activism at Rise Radio 96.3FM

For the past 16 days, Rise Radio 96.3FM has stood proudly alongside a global movement: the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. This campaign has been more than a series of broadcasts – it has been a reaffirmation of who we are as a station, built and founded on the belief in empowering girls and young people.

As the official 16 days draw to a close, our commitment does not. These conversations must continue, because the issues we’ve explored—violence, abuse, empowerment, and equality – do not disappear when the calendar turns. They remain urgent, and they demand our voices, our platforms, and our collective action.

Over the past two weeks, we’ve been privileged to welcome brilliant guests who have shared their expertise, passion, and lived experiences:

• Dr. Elizabeth Alieu and Ariana Oluwole spoke powerfully about protecting women’s minds in the age of digital abuse, reminding us that technology can be both a tool of empowerment and a weapon of harm.

• Philippa Crise-Doyle, National Children’s President from the Children’s Forum Network, inspired us with the clarity and courage of young voices advocating for children’s rights and safety.

• Frances Nuli Kabu, Communications Officer at the Rainbo Initiative, highlighted the critical work being done to support survivors of sexual and gender-based violence across Sierra Leone.

• Josephine Kamara from Purposeful, a feminist hub for girls’ activism in Sierra Leone, shared how Purposeful is creating spaces where girls can lead, organsze, and transform their communities.

Each of these voices has reminded us that activism is not a moment—it is a movement. It is the daily work of challenging harmful norms, amplifying marginalized voices, and building a future where girls and young people can thrive free from violence and fear.

At Rise Radio, we believe our role is to keep these conversations alive. The end of the 16 Days of Activism is not the end of our advocacy—it is a call to deepen it. We will continue to use our airwaves to spotlight the stories, struggles, and successes of those working tirelessly for change.

Together, we can ensure that the energy of these 16 days becomes the foundation for 365 days of activism, empowerment, and hope.