By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
Sierra Leonean Member of Parliament Mariama Munia Zombo has been named the recipient of the Legislative Leadership and Girl Child Protection Advocacy Award at the 2026 African Matriarch Impact Awards (AMIA) in recognition of her role in advancing legislation to end child marriage and protect the rights of girls.
Zombo, who represents Pujehun District in Parliament, was selected for the continental recognition following her contribution to the enactment of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024, according to an announcement shared on Facebook.
In June 2024, Zombo introduced the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill as a private member’s bill in Parliament. The proposed legislation received unanimous approval from lawmakers on June 20, 2024, before receiving presidential assent and becoming law.
The Act establishes 18 years as the minimum legal age for marriage and provides penalties for those involved in child marriage. It also addresses forced child marriage and cohabitation with children, while providing legal protections for victims.
The legislation commenced on December 14, 2024, marking an important development in Sierra Leone’s efforts to protect children from early and forced marriages and strengthen the legal framework for safeguarding girls’ rights.
Zombo’s award recognises her legislative leadership and advocacy on an issue that continues to affect the welfare, education and future opportunities of girls across the country.
Child marriage can expose girls to early pregnancies, health complications, interrupted education and increased vulnerability to abuse. The enactment of the law is therefore considered an important step towards promoting girls’ rights and ensuring that children are protected from harmful practices.
The recognition also highlights the role of women in political leadership in advancing legislation and policies aimed at promoting gender equality, child protection and social development.
The African Matriarch Impact Awards, organised by Heroes Media Group, celebrate African women whose leadership, professional achievements and contributions have made a difference in their communities and institutions.
The 2026 awards ceremony is scheduled for Friday, November 27, at 7:30 p.m. at YSC Hall on Wilkinson Road in Freetown. The event will be held under the theme, “Celebrating Women of Leadership, Impact and Legacy”
Zombo’s selection places a spotlight on Sierra Leone’s efforts to strengthen child protection through legislation and recognises the contribution of parliamentary leadership in addressing issues affecting girls and vulnerable children.
Her recognition comes as the country continues to pursue measures aimed at protecting children’s rights, expanding opportunities for girls and promoting a society in which every child can grow up free from child marriage and other harmful practices.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on wednesday, 4th November 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
