By Davida Spaine-Solomon
Freetown, 29th January 2026- Mariama Jalloh, National Director of the Young Women in Governance Network, has called for firm and clearly defined protections for women in Sierra Leone’s proposed new Constitution, saying gender equality must be guaranteed by law and not left to policy statements.
Speaking during discussions on the ongoing Constitutional Review Process, Jalloh stressed that women’s rights should be embedded in the country’s supreme legal document to ensure fairness and long-term accountability.
She highlighted pay equity as a key concern, noting that many women continue to earn less than men despite doing the same work across various sectors. Jalloh also advocated for a minimum 30 percent quota for women in governance and leadership positions, regardless of the electoral system adopted.
“Women must be represented where decisions are made,” she said. “Without deliberate inclusion, equality will remain out of reach.”
In addition, she called for stronger access to social investments such as education and healthcare, which she described as critical to empowering women and improving family welfare.
The youth leader further emphasized the need for greater youth participation in national development, describing young people as essential partners in shaping Sierra Leone’s future.
While praising the progress made so far in the constitutional reform process, Jalloh urged authorities to maintain transparency and ensure broad public involvement.
She said a Constitution shaped by the people would be the strongest foundation for an inclusive and democratic society.
