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Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of Sierra Leone, has reaffirmed her commitment to the global eradication of child marriage, describing the cause as a “personal mission” rooted in her own experiences.
Speaking after participating in a high-level global dialogue on the issue, the First Lady emphasized that ending child marriage is a moral obligation, not merely a policy goal. She highlighted the devastating impact of early marriage on education, health, and the overall future of girls.
“I have witnessed firsthand how early marriage robs girls of their education, their health, their dreams, and their voice,” Dr. Bio said. “It perpetuates cycles of poverty, inequality, and vulnerability that affect not only individual girls but entire nations.”
Her advocacy follows the landmark passage of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024, which criminalized the practice in Sierra Leone. Dr. Bio noted that her focus has shifted to community education and international collaboration to ensure the law is effectively implemented.
The First Lady also stressed the economic importance of protecting young girls, stating that keeping girls in school and delaying marriage contributes to sustainable development and breaks cycles of poverty.
“This work is more than advocacy,” she said. “It is a moral obligation.” Dr. Bio concluded by pledging to remain a steadfast voice for girls forced into early marriage, using her platform to help them reach their full potential.
