By Josephine Sesay
The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA) has called for stronger collective action to end child marriage, protect children’s rights and promote girls’ empowerment during the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child celebration in Port Loko District.
The celebration was held under the global theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights,” and the local theme, “Tap Pikin Marade En Support Gyal Pikin Den Ryt.”
Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, urged parents, community stakeholders and development partners to work together to tackle child marriage, child abuse, exploitation and other forms of violence against children.
Dr. Mahoi highlighted the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act of 2022, the Child Marriage Act of 2024 and the Child Rights Act of 2025 as important legislative milestones in strengthening the protection of women, girls and children in Sierra Leone.
She stressed the need for greater collective responsibility in safeguarding children’s rights, calling for stronger action against individuals who violate those rights.
The minister also emphasised the importance of creating safe and supportive environments where girls can access education, exercise their rights and develop their full potential without fear of abuse, exploitation or discrimination.
Partners attending the celebration commended the Ministry for its continued efforts to advance girls’ empowerment, education and gender equality. They also underscored the need for collaboration among government institutions, communities and development partners to prevent child labour, exploitation and abuse.
The celebration served as a platform to renew calls for increased awareness, stronger child protection measures and sustained investment in girls’ rights and opportunities.
The Ministry and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to ending child marriage, protecting children from violence and promoting a safer and more equitable society where every girl can pursue her aspirations and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 14th October 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
