Port Loko:The Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs (MoGCA) has reiterated Sierra Leone's dedication to safeguarding girls' rights, eliminating child marriage, and broadening access to education and healthcare. This commitment was renewed during the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child event, celebrated on October 11 at the Port Loko District Council Hall under the theme 'End Child Marriage and Invest in the Girl Child.'
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the Minister of Gender and Children's Affairs, during her keynote address, emphasized that child marriage poses a threat to girls' education, health, and future opportunities. She pointed out that cultural practices, social pressures, and economic challenges should not be used as excuses for infringing on children's rights.
The Minister highlighted the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024, and the Child Rights Act, 2025, as vital legal frameworks for bolstering child protection. She underscored the importance of effective enforcement, increasing public awareness, ensuring institutional accountability, and providing accessible protection services.
The Minister also mentioned the First Lady's advocacy at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2026 as a crucial step in garnering international support to end child, early, and forced marriage. She referred to recent convictions related to an attempted marriage involving a 16-year-old girl in Freetown, reiterating the Government's resolve to investigate and prosecute those involved in or facilitating child marriage.
During the event, there were calls for more investment in girls' education, healthcare, psychosocial support, economic empowerment, and leadership development, particularly for girls with disabilities and those in remote communities. The Minister urged traditional and religious leaders to challenge harmful practices and encouraged boys and young men to support gender equality and respect girls' rights.
The commemoration, organized by MoGCA in partnership with child protection organizations, gathered children from across Sierra Leone, government officials, and development partners. Former CFN member Mary Julius described the event as a testament to the national and international commitment to eradicating child marriage and enhancing girls' welfare.
CFN President Sheriff Bangura committed the network to ongoing advocacy for children's rights through community engagement and awareness initiatives. Nancy Gbamoi from the Child Rights Coalition called for enhanced child protection mechanisms and greater community involvement to prevent child rights violations.
Representatives from various organizations, including Plan International, Save the Children, and UNFPA, emphasized the need for sustained investment in girls' development, stronger law enforcement, and coordinated efforts to protect girls' rights and create opportunities for their potential to be realized. The event underscored the necessity of partnerships among government entities, families, communities, and development organizations to end child marriage and ensure every girl grows up safely, receives an education, and contributes to national development.