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Rt. Hon. Speaker of the Sixth Parliament of Sierra Leone, Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, applaud Sierra Leone’s steadfast dedication to protecting the rights of the girl child through the recent passage of the ‘Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024.’
This groundbreaking legislation prohibits marriage for individuals under the age of 18, marking a significant step forward in the country’s fight to safeguard children’s rights and promote gender equality.
During a dinner organized for Sierra Leone’s delegation to the United Nations General Assembly, Speaker Thomas addressed the pressing issue of child marriage. He emphasized that the practice, recognized globally as harmful, disproportionately affects girls by forcing them out of school and subjecting them to domestic violence and pregnancy-related complications. He attributed the persistence of child marriage in Sierra Leone to longstanding traditions and patriarchal practices.
In his speech, the Speaker acknowledged Sierra Leone’s historical challenges but highlighted the nation’s resilience and collective determination. He noted that the passage of the ‘Prohibition of Child Marriage Act’ was the result of the Parliament’s unified efforts. “As I stand before you this evening, I wish to state that the Parliament of the Republic of Sierra Leone had a collective conscience in passing this bill into an act,” Speaker Thomas stated, underscoring the country’s shared commitment to addressing societal problems.
Speaker Thomas particularly praised the leadership of His Excellency the President of Sierra Leone and the First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio, for championing the fight against child marriage. He described the First Lady’s role in advocating for the bill as “inspiring” and noted her unwavering presence in the well of Parliament on the day the law was passed. Unlike many who campaign for bills but remain absent from critical proceedings, the First Lady remained present throughout the session, even lobbying members of the opposition to support the legislation.
Furthermore, the Speaker emphasized that the passage of the law was a collaborative effort across political lines. He commended the opposition party for supporting the bill, noting that this unity demonstrated the strength and inclusiveness of Sierra Leone’s democracy.
The new law, which not only bans child marriage but also includes provisions for the compensation and rehabilitation of victims, is a testament to Sierra Leone’s commitment to ensuring a safer and more equitable future for its children. Speaker Thomas concluded by celebrating the country’s leadership in prioritizing the protection of children’s fundamental human rights.
