Sierra Leone celebrated the enactment of a new law prohibiting child marriage with a ceremony in the capital city, Freetown, organized by First Lady Fatima Bio. President Julius Maada Bio signed the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act into law at the event, attended by dignitaries including first ladies from Cape Verde and Namibia.
Under the new law, anyone involved in marrying a girl under 18 faces a minimum of 15 years in jail or a fine of approximately $4,000 (£3,200), or both.
Khadijatu Barrie, a 26-year-old university student studying gender studies, welcomed the ban, reflecting on her sister’s marriage at age 14. She expressed regret that the law wasn’t in place earlier to protect her sister and others in similar situations.
Sierra Leone, known for its patriarchal traditions, often sees girls forced into marriage by their fathers. Khadijatu herself faced this at age 10 but managed to escape with the help of supportive teachers and a UN agency worker.
The new law aims to combat high rates of child marriage, estimated to affect a third of girls before they turn 18, contributing significantly to maternal mortality rates in the country—one of the highest globally.
First Lady Fatima Bio, a vocal advocate against sexual abuse, described the law as a personal victory, driven by her own experience nearly becoming a child bride. She emphasized the importance of empowering women and girls in Sierra Leone, envisioning a future where every girl can pursue her dreams.
The enactment of this legislation marks a critical moment for human rights in Sierra Leone, supported internationally and seen as a step towards ending harmful practices against young girls.
