On July 2, 2024, Sierra Leone made a historic stride in the fight for children’s rights by passing the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024. This landmark legislation unequivocally bans marriage for individuals under 18, without exceptions, and imposes severe penalties, including up to 15 years imprisonment for violators.
The bill addresses significant legal loopholes previously found in the Child Rights Act 2007 and the Customary Marriage and Divorce Act 2009. The latter allowed underage marriages with parental consent, undermining protections for children. By harmonizing these laws, the new act ensures a consistent minimum marriage age and strengthens the legal framework to protect children from early and forced marriages.
Advocacy and public support
This legislative change is the culmination of extensive advocacy and public campaigns, notably the First Lady’s “Hands Off Our Girls” initiative, which highlighted the severe consequences of child marriage, including early pregnancies, educational disruption, and health complications. With one-third of girls in Sierra Leone married before 18 and many before 15, the need for robust legal protection was critical.
Moreover, the act emphasizes the role of community leaders and public awareness in enforcing the law and protecting children’s rights. It also provides for education and support services for affected girls, aiming to break the cycle of poverty and lack of education that often leads to child marriage.
Conclusion
This development marks a significant step towards gender equality and child protection in Sierra Leone, setting an example for other nations in West and Central Africa to follow.
As the country moves forward, continuous efforts will be needed to raise awareness and ensure the law’s effective implementation, especially in rural areas where child marriage rates are highest.