By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter
Dr. Isata Mahoi, the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, recently met with the United Kingdom’s Envoy for Women and Girls to bolster bilateral efforts aimed at eradicating harmful practices, including Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), promoting gender equality, and protecting vulnerable children during the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) in New York.
In their discussions, Dr. Mahoi highlighted significant policy advancements in Sierra Leone, including the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024, which criminalizes child marriage, and the newly passed Child Rights Act 2025, which is currently pending Presidential assent. While praising these legislative measures, she voiced concerns regarding the absence of punitive actions for FGM involving minors, committing to advocate for a parliamentary review to ensure comprehensive protection of children’s rights.
“Protecting girls from FGM is not just a legal issue; it’s a moral and cultural imperative,” Dr. Mahoi asserted, emphasizing the need for urgent action against harmful traditions. She noted the effectiveness of grassroots awareness campaigns and the increasing involvement of traditional and religious leaders in combating gender-based violence.
The Minister reiterated Sierra Leone’s commitment to gender parity, stating, “We are not experiencing a backlash; we are moving forward with courage and conviction.” She called for bold strategies that include engaging men as allies in the fight for gender equality, highlighting the Male Involvement Strategy 2020, which has faced delays due to funding shortages. Dr. Mahoi urged renewed international support to operationalize this crucial framework.
She also showcased the success of the Real Men Campaign, launched during the 16 Days of Activism, which has mobilized male champions across various sectors to promote gender equality and empower women.
Concluding the meeting, both Dr. Mahoi and the UK Envoy reiterated their commitment to strengthening collaboration, amplifying the voices of survivors, and building a future where every child is safe and every woman and girl is empowered.
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