Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio signed into law a landmark bill criminalizing child marriage on Tuesday, marking a significant step in addressing a persistent issue in the West African nation. The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, which received parliamentary approval last month, imposes strict penalties, including up to 15 years in prison or fines exceeding $2,000, for those who marry girls under 18.

Speaking at the “We Are Equal” ceremony in Freetown, President Bio hailed the law as a pivotal achievement for gender equality, underscoring his administration’s commitment to empowering women. The legislation, praised by activists and regional leaders, represents a crucial advancement in safeguarding young girls from the enduring consequences of early marriage.

Furthermore, the law’s enactment holds particular significance in Sierra Leone, where traditional practices have resulted in an estimated 800,000 girls becoming child brides, with half of them married off before reaching 15 years old, as per data. Beyond criminalizing child marriage, the legislation prohibits men from cohabiting with underage girls and establishes support mechanisms for victims.

President Bio, influenced by his upbringing under strong female role models, reiterated his dedication to gender equality. The law received positive international reactions, as the US embassy in Sierra Leone commended First Lady Fatima Maada Bio for her “leadership and dedication in pioneering this important bill”. Global organizations, such as Save the Children, welcomed the law as a significant stride towards protecting human rights and enhancing opportunities for girls in Sierra Leone.

The enactment of this legislation marks a critical milestone in Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to eliminate child marriage and foster a more equitable future for its youth.