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The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening women’s empowerment and protecting vulnerable children through the implementation of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act.
Speaking on Tuesday at the weekly government press conference organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education at the Miatta Conference Centre, Dr. Mahoi addressed the theme: “State of the Family in Sierra Leone.”
The briefing was attended by key government officials, including Chernor Bah, Minister of Information and Civic Education; Melrose Karminty, Minister of Social Welfare; and Ansumana Konneh of the National Food and Drug Authority (NaFDaA).
In her address, Dr. Mahoi highlighted the importance of the GEWE Act in promoting inclusive family development and expanding opportunities for women and girls across the country.
She noted that many girls, particularly in rural communities, continue to face barriers related to limited access to education, social opportunities, and personal development programs.
“Empowering women is not only a matter of rights, it is a development strategy for every family,” Dr. Mahoi said, emphasizing that family inclusivity and equal opportunities for all children should be a national priority, regardless of family background or parental relationships.
She further stressed the need for accurate data collection on women holding leadership positions, noting that such empowerment directly contributes to both national and family development.
Dr. Mahoi also expressed concern over growing challenges such as early marriage, child neglect, socio-economic exploitation, and poor parenting, which she said continue to weaken family structures and hinder the development of human capital in Sierra Leone.
Addressing harmful traditional practices, the Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), particularly among underaged girls.
She disclosed that the Ministry has intensified community engagement and nationwide sensitization campaigns to discourage harmful practices while promoting child protection.
“How do we protect our children without abandoning our traditional values?” Dr. Mahoi questioned, highlighting the need to balance cultural preservation with safeguarding children’s rights.
Concluding her remarks, the Minister called on parents and guardians to prioritize responsible parenting and education to reduce child labor, neglect, and exploitation.
The weekly press briefing is part of the government’s ongoing effort to engage the public on national development issues and social protection initiatives.
