Gender Minister Applauds Govt’s Commitment to Women’s Empowerment

The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MGCA), in collaboration with the International Women’s Day National Steering Committee, observed this year’s International Women’s Day on Saturday, March 8, 2025. The event, held at the Miatta Conference Center in Freetown, was themed “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment” and featured Vice President Alhaji Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh as the keynote speaker.

In his address, the Vice President emphasized the resilience and courage of Sierra Leonean women and called for a two day event in future celebrations, including a National Women’s Conference to assess progress and challenges. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, highlighting achievements such as increased support for girls’ education, reduced maternal mortality rates, and expanded opportunities for women in various sectors.

Dr. Jalloh noted Sierra Leone’s leadership in West Africa regarding education for girls in science and technology, the rise in female enrollment in schools, and the country’s progress in reducing premature deaths among women. He also underscored the increasing presence of women in sports, agriculture, and governance, as well as their growing access to social safety nets and financial inclusion.

Chief Minister Dr. David Sengeh, a self-proclaimed ‘HeForShe’ champion, echoed these sentiments, expressing optimism about the country’s strides in gender equality. He highlighted the increasing number of women in the military, judiciary, and other sectors, noting that Sierra Leone now has one of the highest transition rates for girls in education.

Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, commended the President for his unwavering political will in advancing gender equality. She cited key legislative achievements, including the Child Rights Act, Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act, Safe Motherhood Act, Land Commission Act, and Sexual Offences Act. While acknowledging progress, she stressed the need to address persistent challenges such as gender inequality and the slow pace of societal change.

Dr. Mahoi reiterated the importance of shifting mindsets to achieve lasting gender equality, praising initiatives such as the 116 Hotline and the Hands Off Our Girls Campaign led by the First Lady. She emphasized that gender issues are cross-cutting and must be integrated into national development efforts.

Gender Adviser in the Office of the President, Mrs. Isata Jabbie-Kabbah, chaired the event, stressing that while progress has been made, women’s empowerment remains key to unlocking their full potential. She urged for continued policy investments and societal change to ensure gender equality.

Representatives from various international organizations, including Save the Children International, the European Union Delegation, the World Bank Group, and the United Nations, pledged their continued support for women’s rights in Sierra Leone. They acknowledged the government’s legislative efforts and progress in healthcare and education but also pointed out ongoing challenges, particularly economic empowerment and pay disparities.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Fatima Kargbo, Public Relations Officer of the Child Forum Network, who reiterated the collective commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women across Sierra Leone.