Sierra Leone Takes Landmark Step to End Child Marriage In a landmark victory for the protection of children’s rights, Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has signed into law a bill that criminalizes child marriage. The new law, titled the Child Rights Act 2022, raises the legal age of marriage to 18 for both girls and boys. Sierra Leone has one of the highest rates of child marriage in the world, with an estimated 39% of girls marrying before the age of 18. This practice has devastating consequences for girls, including increased risk of pregnancy-related complications, school dropout, and poverty. The new law defines child marriage as any marriage or union entered into by a person under the age of 18. It also prohibits the payment of dowry or bride price in exchange for a child in marriage. Violators of the law face imprisonment for up to 10 years or a fine of up to 50 million Leones (approximately $4,000). The law also provides for the protection of victims of child marriage and the provision of support services to help them rebuild their lives. The signing of the Child Rights Act 2022 is a significant step forward in the fight against child marriage in Sierra Leone. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting children’s rights and promoting their well-being. “This is a historic moment for Sierra Leone and for the children of this country,” said President Bio. “By passing this law, we are sending a clear message that child marriage is unacceptable and that we will not tolerate its practice.” The new law has been praised by child rights advocates around the world. “This law is a major victory for children in Sierra Leone,” said UNICEF Representative Rolake Odetoyinbo. “It will help to protect girls from the harmful practice of child marriage and give them a chance to reach their full potential.” The signing of the Child Rights Act 2022 is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the many individuals and organizations who have campaigned tirelessly for an end to child marriage in Sierra Leone. It is a step towards a future where every child can enjoy their rights and live a life free from exploitation and abuse.Sierra Leone Criminalizes Child MarriageSierra Leone Criminalizes Child Marriage In a landmark move, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone signed into law a legislation criminalizing child marriage. This transformative law will protect young girls from the detrimental effects of this harmful practice. The Child Marriage Prohibition Act prohibits the marriage of girls under 18 and imposes severe penalties on offenders, including prison terms of up to 15 years or substantial fines. The legislation also empowers girls by establishing support mechanisms for victims and banning cohabitation with underage girls. President Bio lauded the law as a significant milestone in promoting gender equality and empowering women. The enactment of this legislation is particularly critical in Sierra Leone, where data suggests that an alarming number of girls (approximately 800,000) are married before the age of 15. International organizations, including the US embassy and Save the Children, commended the law as a crucial step toward safeguarding the rights of girls and enhancing their opportunities in Sierra Leone. The legislation reflects the country’s determination to eradicate child marriage and create a more equitable future for its youth. This landmark legislation is a testament to the growing recognition of the need to protect girls from the devastating consequences of early marriage. It will undoubtedly contribute to the creation of a more just and equitable society for all in Sierra Leone.Sierra Leone’s president has signed into law a landmark piece of legislation that criminalizes child marriage, making it a crime punishable by up to 15 years in prison. The law, which was passed by parliament in July, defines a child as anyone under the age of 18 and prohibits any form of marriage or betrothal involving a child. The new law is a major victory for child rights activists, who have long campaigned against the practice of child marriage in Sierra Leone. According to UNICEF, one in three girls in Sierra Leone is married before the age of 18, and the country has one of the highest rates of child marriage in the world. Child marriage has a devastating impact on the lives of girls. It can lead to early pregnancy, which can be dangerous for both the mother and the child. It can also lead to girls dropping out of school, which can limit their opportunities for education and employment. In addition, child marriage can increase the risk of domestic violence and sexual abuse. The new law is a significant step forward in addressing the issue of child marriage in Sierra Leone. It sends a clear message that child marriage is illegal and unacceptable, and it will help to protect girls from the harmful consequences of this practice. The law is also a testament to the growing momentum behind the global movement to end child marriage. In recent years, a number of countries have passed laws to criminalize child marriage, and the United Nations has adopted a resolution calling for an end to the practice. The signing of the new law in Sierra Leone is a major milestone in the fight to end child marriage around the world. It is a victory for girls’ rights and a step towards a more just and equitable society.