The First Lady of Sierra Leone, Fatima Maada Bio, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ending child marriage, describing it as a national priority and a personal mission.
She made the remarks during a meeting with the UNFPA–UNICEF Global Programme to End Child Marriage (GPECM) Coalition, which is on a working visit to Sierra Leone to strengthen partnerships aimed at protecting girls’ rights.
Welcoming the delegation, the First Lady said the visit was a strong affirmation of shared global efforts to safeguard the future of girls. She emphasized that initiatives such as the “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign continue to play a key role in raising awareness and protecting the dignity, health, and potential of girls across the country.
She noted that ending child marriage in Sierra Leone goes beyond policy, describing it as a deeply personal commitment that requires sustained collective action from government, partners, and communities.
The coalition’s visit focused on strengthening cooperation with national stakeholders and accelerating efforts to ensure girls remain in school, grow in safe environments, and are empowered to reach their full potential.
The First Lady stressed that Sierra Leone remains committed to leading efforts both nationally and globally to end child marriage, adding that “the time to act is now.”
The delegation is expected to continue engagements with government institutions and partners working on child protection and gender equality programmes.
