By Abubakarr Bah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

In Volume One of “Goodies of the Bio Presidency,” I explored Sierra Leone’s complex history of gender inequality, spanning from colonial rule to the present day. A significant turning point came when President Bio signed the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, ushering in a new era for women’s rights. This landmark legislation has sent shockwaves of progress throughout the country, and now I’ll delve into its key provisions and the profound impact it’s having on our nation.

*The GEWE Act: Key Provisions*

The GEWE Act has several key provisions designed to promote gender equality and empower women:

1. 30% Quota for Women: The act mandates that public and private sector employers allocate 30% of job openings to women, including leadership roles. This provision aims to increase women’s representation in decision-making positions.
2. Maternity Leave: The act provides for 14-week maternity leave, ensuring women can care for their newborns without sacrificing their careers. This provision recognizes the importance of maternal care and seeks to balance work and family responsibilities.
3. Equal Pay for Equal Work: The GEWE Act guarantees equal pay for equal work, bridging the gender pay gap. This provision aims to eliminate discrimination based on gender and ensure that women receive fair compensation for their work.
4. Financial Inclusion: Women now have equal access to financial support and training, empowering them to start businesses and participate in the economy. This provision recognizes the critical role women play in economic development and seeks to address the historical exclusion of women from financial opportunities.

*Impact on Women’s Participation in Politics*

The GEWE Act has significantly increased women’s participation in politics. The 30% quota has led to more women being elected to parliament, with the highest-ever women representation in the 2023 elections. Records from the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) show that the number of women candidates who contested in the 2023 elections was higher than in previous elections.

Women’s groups, such as the 50/50 Women’s Group, Women in the Media, Sierra Leone (WIMSAL), and the Sierra Leone Association of Women in Journalism, have praised the act for providing a platform for women to participate in politics.

*Challenges Ahead*

Despite the progress made, there are still challenges to overcome. Women’s literacy rates remain low, with 57.65% of women illiterate. The act’s implementation will require continued support from the government, civil society, and international partners.

Addressing these challenges will require a multi-faceted approach, including:

1. Increased investment in education: Improving women’s literacy rates through targeted education programs.
2. Capacity building: Providing training and capacity-building programs for women to take on leadership roles.
3. Sensitization and awareness: Raising awareness about the importance of gender equality and the benefits of the GEWE Act.

*Conclusion*

The GEWE Act is a significant step towards achieving gender equality in Sierra Leone. As President Bio noted, “Women’s rights are human rights,” and this act is a testament to the government’s commitment to empowering women and promoting gender equality.

With the strong foundation laid by President Bio, Sierra Leone is poised to make significant strides towards achieving gender equality. The GEWE Act has the potential to transform the lives of women and girls in Sierra Leone, and its impact will be felt for generations to come.

As Sierra Leone continues on this journey towards gender equality, it is essential to recognize the critical role women play in shaping the country’s future. The GEWE Act is a groundbreaking law that will pave the way for women’s empowerment and gender equality in Sierra Leone.

The implementation of the GEWE Act will require sustained efforts from all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and international partners. However, with the collective efforts of all stakeholders, Sierra Leone can achieve its goal of becoming a beacon of gender equality in West Africa.

In conclusion, the GEWE Act is a landmark legislation that has the potential to transform the lives of women and girls in Sierra Leone. Its implementation will require sustained efforts from all stakeholders, but the benefits of this act will be felt for generations to come.