Gender Ministry Marks 2026 Girl Child Day with Call to End Child Marriage
Alusine Ahmed Kargbo The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) called for stronger collective action to end child marriage, protect children’s rights and promote girls’ empowerment during the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child celebration in Port Loko District.
The celebration was held under the global theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights,” and the local theme, “Tap Pikin Marade En Support Gyal Pikin Den Ryt.”
Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, urged parents, community stakeholders and development partners to work together to address child marriage, child abuse, exploitation and other forms of violence against children.
The Minister highlighted the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act of 2022, the Child Marriage Act of 2024 and the Child Rights Act of 2025 as significant legislative milestones in advancing the rights and protection of women, girls and children in Sierra Leone.
She also called for stronger action against individuals who violate children’s rights, emphasising the need for collective responsibility to create safe environments where girls can access education, enjoy their rights and reach their full potential.
Partners at the event commended the Ministry for its continued efforts to promote girls’ empowerment, education and gender equality. They also stressed the importance of collaboration in preventing child labour, exploitation and abuse and strengthening child protection efforts.
The Ministry and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to protecting children’s rights, ending child marriage and promoting a safer and more equitable society where every girl can pursue her aspirations, live free from violence and contribute meaningfully to national development.