Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the esteemed First Lady of Sierra Leone, delivered a powerful speech at the 28th Ordinary General Assembly of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on February 18, 2024.

The Assembly focused on the theme “Educate Her and Transform Africa: Enhancing Access to Health and Education for the 21st Century’s African Women and Girls,” and Dr. Fatima Maada Bio stressed the crucial role of education and healthcare in shaping Africa’s future.

In her impassioned address, Dr. Fatima emphasized the urgent need for collective efforts to empower women and girls through education, highlighting its significant impact on their ability to contribute meaningfully to the continent’s development. She stressed the importance of ensuring equal educational opportunities for all citizens to foster thriving communities and nations.

Grateful for the unwavering support of her husband, His Excellency Retired Brigadier Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, the First Lady expressed heartfelt appreciation for the President’s commitment to inclusive policies and initiatives aimed at advancing education, equal rights, and women’s empowerment in the country.

Dr. Fatima commended President Bio’s dedication to allocating 22% of Sierra Leone’s GDP to education, showcasing the government’s firm commitment to education as a key driver of national progress. She highlighted initiatives aimed at improving equal access to education, such as providing transportation, free books, and meals in remote areas, to ensure fair opportunities for all citizens.

Expounding on the successes of the “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign, designed to combat gender-based violence and promote gender equality in Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima outlined initiatives like distributing free sanitary pads, conducting menstrual hygiene programs, and advocating against issues like rape, early marriage, and teenage pregnancy. These efforts aim to protect and empower young girls in Sierra Leone.

Bringing attention to the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio emphasized its provision for a 30% quota for women, highlighting the crucial role of legislative measures in advancing gender equality and ensuring women’s representation in decision-making processes at all levels.

The 28th OAFLAD General Assembly provided a pivotal platform for influential female leaders and advocates to come together, exchange ideas, and reaffirm their dedication to driving positive changes for African women and girls. Through collaborative action and unwavering determination, participants aim to pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for everyone.