By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
In the heart of Kholifa Mabang Chiefdom, a quiet but powerful revolution is unfolding. A woman of courage, conviction, and uncommon determination is stepping forward to challenge centuries of tradition and redefine leadership at the grassroots. Madam Aminata Tarawallie has officially thrown her hat into the ring to contest for the position of Section Chief of Mamanso Kafla Section, with elections scheduled for January 31st, 2026.
Her decision is more than a personal ambition; it is a bold statement in a community where leadership spaces have long been dominated by men, and where women’s voices have too often been confined to the background. In Kholifa Mabang, as in many traditional chiefdoms across Sierra Leone, cultural norms have historically placed women on the sidelines of governance. Authority has been seen as a male preserve, while women’s contributions, though vital, have remained largely informal and unrecognised. Madam Tarawallie’s candidacy challenges this long-standing narrative.
As the only woman contesting against seasoned male candidates, she stands as a symbol of resilience and a beacon of hope for many women and girls who have grown up believing that leadership was not meant for them. Her entry into the race signals a powerful shift one that invites the chiefdom to reflect on the kind of future it wants to build.
Those who know her describe her as fearless, community-minded, and deeply committed to the progress of Mamanso Kafla Section. Over the years, she has remained close to the people, engaging in community initiatives, listening to local concerns, and advocating for unity and development. For many residents, her decision to run is not surprising; it is the natural next step for a woman who has consistently shown interest in the welfare of her people.
Yet, the road ahead is not without obstacles. Contesting in a male-dominated traditional system demands more than popularity; it requires extraordinary courage. Cultural resistance, social pressure, and deeply rooted stereotypes continue to discourage women from aspiring to such positions. In this context, Tarawallie’s move is nothing short of historic.
Her candidacy raises critical questions for Kholifa Mabang Chiefdom and for Sierra Leone as a whole: Who gets to lead? Whose voices matter in shaping community decisions? And can tradition evolve to reflect the realities and aspirations of modern society?
Across the country, women have demonstrated remarkable leadership in politics, civil society, business, and education. From parliament to local councils, women are increasingly proving that inclusive leadership leads to stronger communities. However, traditional governance structures have remained one of the slowest spaces to open up to female participation. That is why the Mamanso Kafla Section election carries significance beyond its borders.
This election is not only about choosing a Section Chief; it is about choosing the values that will guide the chiefdom forward. It is about deciding whether leadership will continue to be defined by gender, or by vision, competence, and commitment to service.
Madam Tarawallie’s decision to stand is a call to action particularly to Tribal Authorities and opinion leaders to recognise the immense value women bring to leadership. Women understand the everyday struggles of families, the challenges of access to health care, education, and livelihoods. Their inclusion in traditional leadership can deepen community dialogue, strengthen social cohesion, and foster development that truly reflects the needs of all.
For the people of Mamanso Kafla Section, January 31st, 2026, presents a defining moment. Will the chiefdom continue to be shaped by the same familiar voices, or will it embrace a new era one that welcomes diverse perspectives and acknowledges that progress often begins with bold choices?
Whatever the outcome, Madam Aminata Tarawallie has already made history by daring to step forward. Her courage alone has cracked a door that has long been shut. For many women watching from Kholifa Mabang and beyond, her journey sends a clear and powerful message: leadership is not a male inheritance; it is a community responsibility. And sometimes, change begins with one woman brave enough to stand.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 28th January 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
