AYV News, July 20, 2026
First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, renowned banker and women’s empowerment advocate Dr. Jeredine Loretta D. Dingie, Managing Director Sierra Leone Water Company Ing Tiideni Hawa Jabbi have emerged at the forefront of the ninth edition of the prestigious 50 Most Influential Sierra Leonean Women Awards, following the official announcement of this year’s award recipients by the Selection and Steering Committee.
In a press statement issued on 17 July 2026, Awards Chairperson, Edmond Alim B. Fornah, disclosed that the ninth edition of the awards recorded unprecedented public participation, further cementing its reputation as one of Sierra Leone’s foremost platforms for celebrating exceptional women leaders and changemakers.
According to the statement, the Awards Committee received an impressive 2,006 nominations from across Sierra Leone and the diaspora through a nationwide nomination exercise. Following a rigorous screening process conducted in line with the established selection criteria, 100 outstanding women were shortlisted for public voting.
The competition attracted overwhelming public interest, with more than 100,000 votes cast by citizens at home and abroad, demonstrating the growing credibility, national recognition, and public confidence in the initiative.
“Public voting constituted only one component of the overall assessment process,” the statement emphasized. “The final selection was determined through a comprehensive evaluation that considered each nominee’s achievements, leadership, community impact, professional excellence, and overall contribution to national development.”
Leading the distinguished list is First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, recognised for her continued advocacy for women’s rights, education, and social justice, as well as her leadership as President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OFLAD). Joining her at the top of the list is Dr. Jeredine Loretta D. Dingie, General Overseer, banker, and women’s empowerment advocate, whose work continues to inspire women across Sierra Leone.
The 2026 honourees also include accomplished leaders from government, business, healthcare, education, civil society, agriculture, media, and international organisations. Among those recognised are Ing. TiideniHawa Jabbi, Managing Director of the Sierra Leone Water Company; Hon. Rosemarie Bangura a member of Parliament in Tonkolili district, Dr. Isata Mahoi, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs; Hon Musayeroh Barrie, Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority; Justice Isatu Sellu Tucker; Dr. Marcella Ryan Coker; Mariama Lowe Bangura; Sonia Ben Kaifala; and Fiona Ngaima, President of the National Union of Sierra Leone Students.
This year’s award recipients reflect the growing influence of Sierra Leonean women in shaping national development, driving innovation, promoting peace, and championing gender equality.
The Awards Committee expressed gratitude to all individuals and institutions that participated in the nomination and voting processes, including partners, sponsors, and members of the media, and supporters who have sustained the initiative over the years.
“Congratulations to the 2026 Award Recipients,” the statement concluded. “May this recognition inspire even greater service, leadership, and commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous Sierra Leone.”
Organised by Kids Advocacy Network Sierra Leone, the 50 Most Influential Sierra Leonean Women Awards have over the years become a national platform dedicated to recognising and celebrating the extraordinary contributions of women across diverse sectors.
