The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA), in partnership with Save the Children and other child protection agencies, has officially launched the Child-Friendly Version of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act at a ceremony held at Brookfields Hotel in New England Ville, Freetown.

The landmark event brought together key stakeholders, including development partners such as Save the Children, Plan International, World Vision, and UNICEF, alongside paramount chiefs and representatives from various child protection institutions. The gathering underscored a unified national commitment to ending child marriage in Sierra Leone.

Chairing the ceremony, Boi Jenneh Jalloh, Chairperson of the Child Rights Coalition, welcomed participants and highlighted the significance of the initiative. She described the launch as a critical step toward empowering children with knowledge of their rights and strengthening child protection efforts nationwide.

Speaking on behalf of the Ministry, the Chief Director, Charles Vandi, explained that the child-friendly version of the Act has been simplified to ensure accessibility for children, from primary school pupils to adolescents. He emphasized that the initiative is designed to deepen awareness, promote protection, and ensure both children and adults clearly understand the legal implications of child marriage.

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A representative from the Human Rights Commission, Ms. Sawaneh, addressed the broader social challenges associated with early marriage, linking it to insecurity and harmful community practices. She stressed the need for increased parental responsibility, sustained community sensitization, and stronger collaboration with traditional leaders to effectively tackle the issue.

Delivering remarks on behalf of Save the Children, Esther Elliott Nyuma, Director of Advocacy, Campaigns, Communications and Media, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to safeguarding children’s rights. She noted that the simplified version of the Act will empower children to better understand their rights and responsibilities, encouraging them to speak out and seek support when needed.

A powerful highlight of the event was a testimony by Kadijatu Lamarana Shunem Barrie, a Gender Studies graduate of Fourah Bay College. She shared her personal experience of resisting early marriage at the age of 14 in Kambia District. Her story resonated strongly with the audience, illustrating the transformative power of education, resilience, and determination.

Also contributing, Family Support Unit (FSU) representative Mrs. Betty Johnson spoke on the health, educational, and social consequences of child marriage, particularly for girls. She called for stronger enforcement of existing laws and intensified advocacy efforts, especially within communities where such practices remain prevalent.
The technical presentation of the Act was delivered by Deputy Director Aminata Kargbo and Victoria Squire, who outlined its key provisions and explained its simplified format. The child-friendly document was subsequently presented to the Deputy Minister for the official launch.

In his keynote address, the Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Buakai Hindowa Bindi, commended development partners for their steadfast support and praised President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for his continued commitment to advancing child protection and gender equality.
He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to safeguard children’s rights and ensure that girls are given the opportunity to grow, learn, and reach their full potential.


“Girls should be girls, not mothers,” he declared, emphasizing the urgent need to eliminate child marriage and expand access to education and social protection services.

The Deputy Minister further assured stakeholders of the Ministry’s commitment to working collaboratively to disseminate the child-friendly version of the Act across communities nationwide.
The event concluded with a strong call to action, as all stakeholders reaffirmed their collective commitment to ending child marriage in Sierra Leone.

The official launch of the Child-Friendly Version of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act marks a significant milestone in advancing awareness, strengthening protection, and empowering children across the country.
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