Don Bosco Fambul Honored Contribution to Peacebuilding and Child Protection

Don Bosco Fambul Honored for Contribution to Peacebuilding and Child Protection

(ANS – Freetown, Sierra Leone – November 9, 2026) – Don Bosco Fambul, a Salesian non-governmental organization based in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, has received a significant recognition from the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion for its extraordinary contribution to peacebuilding, child protection, and social reintegration in the country. The award was presented by the president of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio, to Samuel Bojohn, the organization’s deputy director—the only staff member who has been with the organization since its inception.

The ceremony took place on October 26 during the Conference on National Unity and Social Cohesion.

Since its founding in 1998, Don Bosco Fambul has been steadfastly committed to protecting vulnerable children and youths, supporting victims of abuse, rehabilitating minors affected by conflict, and creating opportunities for a better future.

This recognition honors years of dedication, compassion, and tireless effort aimed at restoring hope, dignity, and new prospects to thousands of young people.

Deep gratitude was expressed to the partners, supporters, staff, and everyone who continues to make this mission possible. “Together,” they write, “we continue to protect childhood, restore hope, and build a better future for every child.”

Justification of the Award by the Commission

Don Bosco Fambul has made an exceptional contribution to peace and social reintegration in Sierra Leone, thru its long-standing commitment to former child soldiers, vulnerable minors, and other young people affected by conflict, abuse, and exclusion. Founded by U.S. Salesian missionary Fr. John Thompson in Freetown in 1998, during the civil war, the organization initially focused on rescuing and rehabilitating children who had been recruited into armed groups.

At a time when thousands of minors had experienced violence, displacement, and separation from their families, Don Bosco Fambul provided protection, assistance, and opportunities for recovery.

This work addressed one of the most complex challenges in Sierra Leone’s post-war recovery process: ensuring that minors involved with armed groups had the chance to overcome their trauma and successfully reintegrate into society.

Over time, the organization expanded its services to include children living on the streets, victims of trafficking and abuse, and young people who had come into conflict with the law. Thru initiatives such as Don Bosco Mobil—launched in 2010—the organization has provided outreach services, counseling, healthcare, education, and vocational training to thousands of vulnerable minors.

Its rehabilitation programs have also supported young people in detention, offering educational and psychosocial services designed to prepare them for reintegration into society.

In 2024, Don Bosco Fambul celebrated 25 years of operation, a testament to its enduring commitment to protecting minors and promoting their well-being.

The organization’s contribution to peace extends well beyond humanitarian aid: by restoring dignity, strengthening family ties, and creating opportunities for the most vulnerable youths, it has helped counter the conditions that can fuel exclusion, violence, and the resurgence of conflict.