Sierra Leone Outlaws Child Marriage

In a landmark decision, Sierra Leone recently enacted the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill 2024, criminalising child marriage. The law passed on June 20, 2024, prescribes jail terms of up to 15 years for offenders or a stiff fine of up to $2,000, signifying a crucial step towards protecting child rights. This move, hailed by human rights activists and international organisations, marks a pivotal moment in the country’s battle against a deeply ingrained practice. However, the implications of this legislative change extend far beyond Sierra Leone’s borders, echoing across the African continent, where child marriage remains a pervasive challenge. Child marriage, defined as a formal marriage or informal union before the age of 18, is alarmingly prevalent in Sierra Leone. According to UNICEF, nearly 30 per cent of girls in the country are married before they turn 18, nine per cent of the girls are married before they turn 15, while seven per cent of boys are married before they turn 18. This statistic mirrors a broader pattern in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly West and Central Africa, where UNICEF estimates that nearly 60 million girls are child brides. A combination of poverty, institutional gaps, gender inequality, and cultural traditions often drives the practice.

The criminalisation of child marriage and enforcement of penalties in Sierra Leone could catalyse similar proactive changes across Africa. While countries like Malawi and Tanzania have also taken steps to outlaw child marriage, enforcement remains inconsistent, and social change is slow. Sierra Leone’s proactive approach could inspire other nations to adopt and rigorously enforce similar laws. Moreover, this legislative change highlights the importance of international cooperation and support. Organisations such as the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Save the Children International have been instrumental in advocating for the rights of children and supporting the Sierra Leonean government in their efforts to end child marriage. The success of Sierra Leone’s law could bolster these efforts, providing a model for other countries grappling with the same issue.

The fight against child marriage in Sierra Leone and ensuring the law is implemented effectively requires a multi-pronged approach. Education is paramount. Empowering young people through schooling equips them with skills for economic independence and delays marriage and childbearing. Additionally, tackling poverty through microfinance initiatives and social safety nets can alleviate the pressures that drive families to marry off their children young. Additionally, community engagement is crucial. Religious leaders and local chiefs can be powerful advocates for change, challenging traditional beliefs and promoting the benefits of girls’ education. Empowering women within communities can disrupt the cycle as mothers become more vocal agents for their daughters’ futures. In tandem with non-governmental organisations and community service organisations, the government must work to ensure that this law is more than just symbolic. Efforts should be deployed to increase public awareness, provide education on the rights of children, and offer support services for those at risk of child marriage. Implementing and enforcing this law will be crucial in determining its effectiveness.

Ending child marriage has profound implications for the economic and social development of African nations. Empowering girls to stay in school and pursue careers contributes to economic growth and poverty reduction. Educated women are more likely to invest in their families and communities, creating a positive ripple effect. Furthermore, addressing child marriage is essential for advancing gender equality. By protecting girls’ rights and ensuring they have the opportunity to reach their full potential, countries can make significant strides toward closing the gender gap and fostering inclusive development.

Sierra Leone’s decision to criminalise child marriage is a landmark victory in the fight for children’s rights and gender equality. While challenges remain regarding enforcement and societal acceptance, this legislative change is a crucial step forward. The broader implications for Africa are significant, offering hope that other nations will follow suit and prioritise the protection and empowerment of their young citizens. As Sierra Leone’s experience shows, when combined with comprehensive support and awareness efforts, legal reform can pave the way for a brighter future for millions of children across the continent.