Speaking in an interview with AYV as part of this year’s Day of the African Child which is today, June 16, Madam Lagga said that parents should ensure they do not give their daughters’ hands in marriage as children; but should make sure they prepare them to be proper leaders of tomorrow.

Madam Laggah the Commissioner for the National Commission for Children said that this year’s theme, titled: “End child marriage” is not only timely, but also very important as it has been one of the biggest challenge in getting the girl child accomplish her dreams.

She said coincidentally with the regional theme chosen for this year’s Day of the African Child, the Commission for children has been working tirelessly in looking critically at the factors responsible for child marriage and also thinking about how it can be minimized nationwide.

Madam Laggah said some of these factors include traditional and religious practices, people’s perception, like giving more priorities to boys than girls, lack of educational facilities and physical features.

She noted that the fight against child marriage is a very serious one that cannot be won, except with a collaborative effort of the Government of Sierra Leone, parents and the National Children’s Commission.

She ended up pledging her Commission’s commitment in ensuring that child marriage is minimized nationwide.