AYV News, June 28, 2024

In a powerful address at the 36th Session of the Crans Montana Forum, Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, emphasised the crucial need for recognising and amplifying women’s contributions in global development interventions.

During the forum held at the Merode Hotel in Brussels, Belgium, the first lady highlighted the importance of inclusivity and participation of women and girls in driving sustainable change.

She specifically called attention to the #WeAreEqual Campaign launched by First Ladies in Africa and urged world leaders and activists to ensure its success through collaborative efforts.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio’s keynote address focused on key initiatives such as the Hands Off Our Girls Campaign, which aims to combat issues like rape, early child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and child trafficking. The campaign has led to significant legal and institutional reforms in Sierra Leone, resulting in the reduction of these harmful practices and the empowerment of survivors.

The first lady also underscored her government’s achievements in addressing challenges related to gender-based violence and maternal health, including her effort in championing the reconstruction of the 34 Military Hospital to provide comprehensive care for survivors and victims.

She highlighted legislative milestones such as the Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (GEWE) Act of 2022 and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill 2024 as steps towards advancing women and girls’ rights in the country.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio urged the international community to collaborate in recognising women’s contributions to global development, fostering sustainable partnerships, and ensuring the alignment of interventions with national and sub-regional agendas.

By coordinating efforts with governments and sharing best practices, she emphasised the potential for maximising impact and promoting gender equality worldwide.