By: Patricia Ngevao
October 19, 2026 The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs has called for stronger action to end child marriage through law enforcement, education and community engagement. The call was made during the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child commemoration at the Port Loko District Council Hall under the theme “End Child Marriage and Invest in the Girl Child.” The Minister said cultural practices and economic hardship should never justify violations of girls’ rights. The Minister highlighted the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024, and the Child Rights Act, 2025, as key legal protections requiring effective enforcement. Referring to recent convictions linked to an attempted marriage involving a 16-year-old girl in Freetown, she reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to prosecuting those involved in child marriage.
She also called for greater investment in girls’ education, healthcare and economic empowerment. The event brought together government officials, children, civil society organizations and development partners. Children’s Forum Network President Sheriff Bangura pledged continued advocacy, while representatives of the Child Rights Coalition, Plan International, Save the Children and UNFPA called for stronger protection systems and sustained investment in girls’ development. The Ministry urged traditional and religious leaders to challenge harmful practices and encouraged boys and young men to respect girls’ rights. Participants called for stronger cooperation among government institutions, families and communities to end child marriage and ensure girls can complete their education and grow up safely.
