The Honorable Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, on Monday, April 20, 2026, delivered an inspiring opening statement at the Africa Women Leadership Conference, which kicked off in Freetown.

The event brought together distinguished African women leaders from across the continent, marking a key moment in the ongoing struggle for gender equality and women’s leadership in Africa.

Speaking before the gathering, Dr. Mahoi emphasized Sierra Leone’s strong commitment to promoting the empowerment of women, pointing to key national legislative and policy frameworks designed to protect women and children while enhancing their opportunities for leadership.

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These included the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act (2022), the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (2024), and the Child Rights Act (2025).

“The Government of Sierra Leone is committed to creating a legal and policy environment that not only protects women and children but also expands opportunities for them to participate in governance and decision-making processes,” said Dr. Mahoi.

She also highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing initiatives, which include mentorship and capacity-building programs aimed at empowering young women, nationwide sensitization campaigns on gender equality, support for women entrepreneurs, and stronger interventions to address the ongoing issues of sexual and gender-based violence.

The conference, which also serves as a platform to recognize the work of influential African women leaders, reaffirmed the pivotal role women play in Africa’s development and transformation.

Dr. Mahoi noted that the presence of these changemakers underscored the significance of women’s leadership in achieving sustainable development and economic growth across the continent.

Throughout the conference, participants engaged in discussions aligned with international frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, reaffirming their commitment to inclusive development.

Despite the challenges that persist, including cultural barriers and systemic inequalities, the Minister expressed optimism for continued progress.

She underscored the government’s ongoing efforts to expand girls’ access to education, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), and promote women’s leadership in emerging sectors such as climate action.

Dr. Mahoi concluded her remarks with a call for continued collaboration and solidarity. “We must remain steadfast in our support for women and girls, recognizing them as key drivers of national and continental development,” she said.

The opening session of the Africa Women Leadership Conference in Freetown closed with a renewed commitment to furthering the agenda of women’s leadership and gender equality across the African continent.

The conference continues to serve as a crucial space for dialogue, fostering partnerships, and empowering women leaders to drive change at all levels of society.