On June 20, 2024, Sierra Leone’s Parliament made a historic move by unanimously passing the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill 2024, a landmark piece of legislation spearheaded by First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio.

This private member’s bill decisively outlaws child marriage, addressing a deeply ingrained issue that has long affected the nation. The new law criminalizes any marriage or union involving children under the age of 18, establishing stringent penalties for offenders, safeguarding victims’ rights, and ensuring access to education and support services for young girls impacted by early marriage.

Expressing her gratitude, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio emphasized the collective responsibility to protect children from early marriage. She acknowledged the parliamentarians’ dedication, which transcended political divides, underscoring a shared commitment to the cause. “This bill signifies a monumental step forward in defending the rights of our future generation and highlights the power of collaboration and common purpose,” she stated.

Dr. Bio extended her heartfelt thanks to various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, the Police Wives Association, Save the Children, the Ministry of Education, and the He-For-She movement, all of whom played pivotal roles in advocating for the bill. She also recognized the steadfast support of her husband, President Julius Maada Bio, whose commitment to gender equality was crucial in advancing this initiative.

Related News

Presenting the bill, Honourable Marie Zombo highlighted the alarming statistic that Sierra Leone ranks 19th globally in the prevalence of early child marriage, stressing the urgent need for intervention. Early marriages often lead to early pregnancies, childbirth complications, and the truncation of educational and future opportunities for young girls. The bill aims to eliminate legal loopholes by banning marriage before the age of 18 for both boys and girls, without exceptions. It also addresses enforcement challenges by imposing penalties for violations and calling on community leaders to support its implementation actively.

The parliamentary debate was marked by a unified sense of purpose. Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Sengepoh Thomas, pledged his full support, emphasizing the bill’s critical role in safeguarding girls’ rights and ensuring their access to education, healthcare, and a brighter future. Passionate speeches from Hon. Catherine Tarawally, Hon. Mathew Nyuma, and others celebrated Dr. Fatima Maada Bio’s relentless efforts and her influential “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign, which has driven significant legal and institutional reforms.

Opposition leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo urged all parliamentarians to embrace the bill fully and work tirelessly to promote it within the broader community. He stressed the importance of collective effort in ensuring the bill’s effective implementation and the protection of girls’ rights throughout society.

The debate underscored the parliamentarians’ collective resolve to prioritize the well-being of girls and foster a society where they can thrive and achieve their full potential. The legislation promises to empower girls through education and equal opportunities, reduce adolescent pregnancies, and improve health outcomes. Ultimately, this bill is a stride towards gender equality and creating a safe environment for all children.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio called on all parliamentarians to collaborate in ensuring the law’s effective implementation and to educate their constituents about its provisions. “Together, we can create a brighter future for all,” she concluded, highlighting the collective effort required to realize the bill’s full potential.