By Joseph Momoh, Reporter D.S
FREETOWN, 21 April 2026 The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) has launched a simplified, child-friendly version of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, in a bid to make the law accessible to young people and bolster national efforts to end early marriage.
The launch took place at Brookfields Hotel in New England Ville, Freetown, drawing development partners including Save the Children, Plan International, World Vision, and UNICEF, alongside paramount chiefs, child protection institutions, and Family Support Unit (FSU) officials.
Speaking for the Ministry, Chief Director Charles Vandi said the revised document was deliberately written in plain language so that primary school pupils and adolescents can understand their rights and the legal consequences of child marriage. “This is about deepening awareness and ensuring both children and adults grasp what the law says,” he noted.
Deputy Director Aminata Kargbo and Victoria Squire presented the technical breakdown of the Act and its simplified format before handing the document to Deputy Minister Buakai Hindowa Bindi for the official launch. In his keynote address, Bindi commended development partners and President Julius Maada Bio for advancing child protection and gender equality. “Girls should be girls, not mothers,” he said, pledging to circulate the child-friendly version nationwide to expand access to education and social protection.
Chairing the ceremony, Boi Jenneh Jalloh, Chairperson of the Child Rights Coalition, called the initiative a critical step toward equipping children with knowledge of their rights. Human Rights Commission representative Ms. Sawaneh urged stronger parental responsibility, community sensitization, and collaboration with traditional leaders to confront harmful practices linked to early marriage.
FSU representative Mrs. Betty Johnson outlined the health, educational, and social impacts of child marriage on girls, and called for tougher enforcement and sustained advocacy in communities where the practice persists.
Representing Save the Children, Director of Advocacy, Campaigns, Communications and Media Esther Elliott Nyuma said the simplified Act will help children better understand their rights and responsibilities and encourage them to seek support when needed.
A personal testimony from Kadijatu Lamarana Shunem Barrie, a Gender Studies graduate of Fourah Bay College, underscored the stakes. Barrie recounted resisting marriage at age 14 in Kambia District, crediting education and determination for changing her path. Her story drew strong reaction from attendees.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to work with stakeholders to disseminate the new version across all communities. Partners closed the event by renewing a collective pledge to end child marriage in Sierra Leone, describing the launch as a milestone for awareness, protection, and youth empowerment.
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