Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has signed into law a landmark bill criminalizing child marriage, representing a significant step in combating a long-standing issue within the nation. The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, which recently garnered parliamentary approval, enforces severe penalties—including up to 15 years of imprisonment and fines exceeding $2,000—for individuals who marry girls under the age of 18. This legislation also addresses cohabitation with underage girls and outlines support mechanisms for victims.
The President celebrated the enactment at the “We Are Equal” event in Freetown, emphasizing the law’s importance for gender equality and reaffirming his administration’s dedication to empowering women. This advancement has been met with acclaim from both activists and regional leaders, recognizing it as a critical move to protect young girls from the debilitating consequences of early marriage.
With traditional practices leading to an estimated 800,000 girls in Sierra Leone becoming child brides—half of whom were married before reaching the age of 15—the impact of this law is profound. President Bio’s commitment to gender equality, bolstered by his experiences growing up with influential female figures, was a driving force behind this initiative. The new law has also received positive international feedback, with the US embassy in Sierra Leone commending First Lady Fatima Maada Bio for her pivotal role in championing the bill.
Global organizations like Save the Children have praised the legislation as a significant consideration towards safeguarding human rights and enhancing opportunities for girls in Sierra Leone. This legislative victory signifies an essential milestone in the country’s endeavors to abolish child marriage and secure a more just future for its youth.
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