In a monumental decision, Sierra Leone’s parliament has approved a law abolishing child marriage, marking a significant victory in the nation’s ongoing battle against this harmful practice. The new law criminalizes the marriage of girls under 18 years of age, imposing a potential prison sentence of up to 15 years on offenders. This legislative action is a beacon of hope in a country grappling with an economic crisis and a pervasive social issue.
According to UNICEF, child marriage is a significant problem in West Africa, with one-third of all girls marrying before their 18th birthday in Sierra Leone. The country is home to an estimated 800,000 child brides, with a staggering 400,000 of them married before the age of 15.
The passing of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill 2024 has been met with immense enthusiasm, especially from First Lady Fatima Maada Bio, a tireless advocate for women’s rights and a champion for the “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign. This campaign has been instrumental in reducing sexual and gender-based violence, early marriage, teenage pregnancy, and child trafficking in Sierra Leone.
The First Lady expressed her elation on X, formerly known as Twitter, highlighting the significance of this legislation in protecting the rights of future generations. She emphasized the shared responsibility to shield children from early marriage and lauded the parliamentarians for their dedication to this cause.
The bill’s unanimous passage signifies a collective commitment to address a deeply rooted societal issue. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared belief in the importance of protecting children’s rights and promoting gender equality in Sierra Leone. This landmark decision marks a significant step towards a brighter future for girls and women in the country.
