Rt. Hon. Speaker of the Sixth Parliament of Sierra Leone, Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, has showcased Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment and effort in protecting the girl child. The country recently signed the ‘Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024’, a landmark legislation that makes it illegal to marry children under the age of 18, thereby significantly advancing the country’s efforts to protect the rights of children and promote gender equality.
While making his speech at a dinner organized for Sierra Leone’s Delegation to the United Nations General Assembly, Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas first intimated that Child Marriage is globally recognized as a harmful practice that disempowers women and girls and hinders gender equality. He continued that girls who are married as children are more likely to drop out of school and suffer domestic violence and other pregnancy complications. He added that the practice had existed for generations due to traditions and funny patriarchal practices.
The Parliament Speaker, therefore, stated that their gathering at the dining event was an effort to continue the conversation relating to what he described as a ‘grimed subject.’ He acknowledged that Sierra Leone as a nation has had its share of struggles and misfortunes but expressed that they are resilient people, adding that they have always emerged very strong and determined.
“As I stand before you this evening, I wish to state that the Parliament of the Republic of Sierra Leone had a collective conscience in passing this bill into an act. We have identified the missing links generally as Sierra Leoneans and have always come together to address problems affecting us as a nation.
Sierra Leone, as a nation, had identified child marriage as a harmful practice. Still, our problem was leadership, and we needed the leadership that could have championed this change. And it would interest you to know that such leadership was provided by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone and His beautiful wife, the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone. Her role in championing this change is not just commendable, it is inspiring and gives us hope for a better future for our children”, said Speaker Thomas.