TWO DECADES ON: HOW EFFECTIVELY HAS NaCSA FULFILLED ITS TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE MANDATES IN SIERRA LEONE

By Mohamed Nagimu Deen (ATJLF/MRCG Fellow 2026)

For over two decades, victims of Sierra Leone’s civil war have endured broken promises and neglect. Despite efforts like the 2008 NaCSA-led reparations program, many have been left without essential long-term support, including regular pensions, healthcare, and economic empowerment. The program, which was meant to provide redress for victims of human rights abuses, has fallen short of its promises.  

The Sierra Leone Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) outlined clear guidance on reparations in its final report, specifically in Volume 4, Chapter 5, Sections 100–209 and pages 250–265. These sections emphasize the need for a well-rounded reparations program that includes medical care, financial support, housing provision, and vocational training for those who were severely affected by the war.