3 Comments
Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Fatima Bio was elected President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) on Saturday, February 15, 2025.
The organisation brings together First Ladies from across Africa to advocate for social and economic development in the region.
In her acceptance, the President-elect thanked her fellow First Ladies for their support and trust in her leadership. She also thanked the people of Sierra Leone for their continued support of her husband, President Julius Maada Bio.
Acknowledging her husband’s encouragement, she reaffirmed her commitment to championing women’s and girls’ empowerment in Sierra Leone and beyond. She pledged to work diligently with OAFLAD to drive positive change across the continent.
Fatima has been an instrumental personality in Sierra Leone politics in recent times, especially in her advocacy for girls’ and women’s rights. During her husband’s first term as President of Sierra Leone, she led a successful campaign against sexual abuse and rape, receiving support both locally and internationally.
Experts believe that the First Lady’s advocacy led to the establishment of a special court for rape and sexual penetration and the repeal of the Sexual Offences Act of 2019.
Recent reports from rights groups indicate a decline in the number of cases of rape and sexual penetration in Sierra Leone, highlighting an important shift in societal trends regarding these issues.
Additionally, supporters of Bio believe that her advocacy efforts will serve as a valuable resource for the African region as she embarks on her new role.
Now I know why some people hate Fatima Bio. It is just because she is so developmental more than all the past first lady in the history of Sierra Leone. God bless you madam Fatima, mama of African not even Sierra Leone but Africa. We are proud of you 💪
Those people that was insulting Fatima Bio, it’s better you stop it now or else, the whole Africa will come for you.
I wish you are my mother biologicaly