President Bio Signs Child Rights Act 2024 Amid FGM Debate
Bo City, Southern Sierra Leone 14 October 2025 In a historic move for child welfare, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio has officially signed the Child Rights Act 2024 into law, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of its youngest citizens. The announcement was made during the ongoing Civic Day Series in Bo City by the country’s Solicitor General and later confirmed by Mohamed Jaward Nyallay, Outreach Coordinator at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education.
The newly enacted legislation, which Parliament passed in July 2025, introduces comprehensive reforms aimed at strengthening protections for children in Sierra Leone. Among its provisions, the Act guarantees children’s rights to education, healthcare, identity, and safeguards against abuse, exploitation, and neglect. It aligns closely with international standards and reflects the government’s intent to modernize the country’s child welfare framework for the 21st century.
Despite the milestone, the law has generated significant public discussion, particularly over its lack of explicit prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) a practice still prevalent in many communities across Sierra Leone. Human rights activists have expressed concern that omission leaves girls vulnerable to one of the most harmful forms of gender-based violence.
Supporters of the legislation emphasize that while legal reform is critical, cultural engagement and community education are equally important to effect lasting change. They argue that transforming deeply rooted practices like FGM requires a combination of law, advocacy, and grassroots initiatives.
As Sierra Leone embarks on implementing the Child Rights Act, civil society organizations are calling for continued legislative enhancements and community-driven programs to ensure that all children, particularly girls, enjoy comprehensive protection under the law. The signing of the Act represents a pivotal step in the nation’s ongoing effort to uphold the rights of its youngest citizens and create a safer, more equitable future.
