Freetown 24th February 2026 – The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, has openly expressed her reservations about the Child Rights Act of 2025, acknowledging that while progress has been made, the legislation still leaves critical gaps in protecting girls from harmful practices.
Speaking at the launch of the seven-year EmpowerHER Project spearheaded by CAUSE Canada, Dr. Mahoi admitted she was “not happy” with aspects of the Act. “I have my reservations about the Child Rights Act and I may not be happy, but as a government we have come a long way in changing the laws. I intend to work to ensure Zero FGM in Sierra Leone in the future,” she said.
Her remarks came during the unveiling of EmpowerHER, a project funded by Global Affairs Canada and targeting 480 rural communities across seven districts. The initiative has been described as a national commitment to dignity, equality, and opportunity for girls and women. By tackling harmful practices, promoting education, and supporting economic empowerment, the project aims to transform communities and strengthen Sierra Leone’s path toward inclusive development.
Civil society organizations have also voiced concerns about the Child Rights Act of 2025, arguing that it does not go far enough in protecting children from practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM). Rights groups insist that stronger safeguards are needed to ensure girls are fully protected under the law.
Dr. Mahoi’s candid admission reflects both the progress and the challenges in Sierra Leone’s child protection landscape. While legislative reforms have advanced, the Minister’s pledge to pursue Zero FGM signals a determination to push beyond existing laws and deliver lasting change for girls across the country.
