The Children’s Forum Network (CFN) on Monday, 29th September 2025, convened a press conference at the Miatta Conference Hall in Freetown to rally support for the Child Marriage Bill and push for its wider popularization.

CFN National President, Philipa Cride Dole, stressed that child marriage robs children particularly girls of education, health, and opportunities for a brighter future. She urged urgent action to ensure the Bill is passed and embraced nationwide.

Representing the Ministry, Mrs. Laura Koroma reaffirmed government’s commitment to ending child marriage, noting that the Bill aligns with both national priorities and international obligations. She assured stakeholders of the Ministry’s readiness to collaborate for effective implementation.

Civil society representative Marvel Kamara added that while legislation is key, grassroots awareness and community ownership are vital to eradicating the practice.

The event ended with an interactive dialogue, during which stakeholders shared strategies to strengthen advocacy and mobilize public support for the Bill.