About us
What is RICE-SL
Rural Initiative for Community Empowerment (RICE-SL) is a community-based organization dedicated to advancing the rights, dignity, and socio-economic wellbeing of women, girls, and children in Sierra Leone. Headquartered in Bo District, we operate across Wonde, Bumpe, and Jaiama Chiefdoms in the Southern Province.
RICE-SL was established in 2007 as Women with Vision in response to the devastating effects of Sierra Leone’s civil war, which left many women and girls vulnerable to poverty, exclusion, and gender-based violence. Founded by a group of 20 determined women and girls including war widows, survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, single parents, and school dropouts the organization was built on a shared commitment to restore dignity, promote justice, and create opportunities for empowerment. In 2010, it evolved into a formally registered Community-Based Organization.
We are registered with the Bo District Council and collaborate closely with local NGOs and international partners, including ActionAid Sierra Leone, the European Union, Bo District Civil Society Forum, and COME-SL, PRIDE-SL to deliver impactful and sustainable programs
Our work focuses on promoting access to justice, protecting human rights, advancing girl-child education, and strengthening livelihoods through agriculture and income-generating activities. We also support children and youth to build resilience, participate actively in society, and contribute to peacebuilding and community development.
Guided by our commitment to equity and inclusion, RICE-SL continues to empower communities, amplify voices, and drive lasting social change across Sierra Leone.
Our Mission and Vision
Our Mission
RICE-SL is dedicated to promoting, protecting, and advancing the rights of women, girls, and children in Sierra Leone. We raise awareness among duty bearers and communities, foster coordinated action, and implement advocacy and empowerment programs that strengthen human rights and create lasting, positive change.
We are committed to delivering timely, inclusive, and responsive support through compassionate engagement, financial assistance, education, and professional training, ensuring that every individual receives the care and resources they need at every stage of their journey.
Our Vision
We envision a Sierra Leone where women, girls, and children live in a just and inclusive society that upholds equality, dignity, and full respect for their human rights.
We envision a world where every young person facing challenges feels empowered to seek support and has access to opportunities in education, employment, and personal development. We strive to expand our reach across all regions, ensuring that no one is left without the support they need to thrive.
Our Partners
MESSAGE FROM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR?
Dear Friends, Partners, and Visitors,
It is with deep gratitude and hope that I welcome you to the Rural Initiative for Community Empowerment (RICE-SL). Our journey began in 2007, in the aftermath of Sierra Leone’s civil war, when a group of courageous women and girls came together with a shared vision to restore dignity, rebuild lives, and create opportunities where there was once despair. I am proud to have been part of this founding group, and to witness how far we have come.
RICE-SL was born out of resilience. Many of us were directly affected by the hardships of war widows, survivors, single mothers, and young girls who had lost access to education. Yet, we chose strength over defeat. Today, our organization stands as a symbol of empowerment, working tirelessly to promote the rights and wellbeing of women, girls, and children across our communities.
Through our programs, we strive to ensure access to justice, protect human rights, support education especially for the girl child and create sustainable livelihood opportunities. We believe that when women and children are empowered, entire communities thrive.
Our work would not be possible without the support of our dedicated partners, community members, and stakeholders who share in our vision of a just and inclusive Sierra Leone. Together, we are building a future where every woman, girl, and child can live with dignity, equality, and hope.
I invite you to join us on this journey whether as a partner, supporter, or advocate as we continue to create lasting change and transform lives.
With sincere appreciation,
Mrs. Theresa Mary Koroma
Executive Director, RICE-SL
These images highlight RICE-SL’s active engagement in empowering women through practical workshops and training programs. Women from different communities participate in hands-on sessions designed to build skills in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and sustainable livelihoods. Through interactive discussions and guided learning, participants gain knowledge, confidence, and the ability to support their families and contribute meaningfully to their communities. These activities also promote collaboration, peer support, and inclusion, creating safe spaces for women to share experiences and grow together. Each training represents a step toward economic independence, strengthened resilience, and improved quality of life for women and their households.