Freetown, 16th July, 2026- Save the Children, in partnership with the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs and the Child Justice Steering Committee, has intensified efforts to combat child marriage by training police investigators and state prosecutors on the enforcement of Sierra Leone’s landmark Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024.
The one-day workshop, held in Freetown, brought together key justice sector actors to strengthen their understanding of the law and sharpen their skills in investigating and prosecuting child marriage offences. The session was facilitated by Hon. Justice Alusine Sesay of the Supreme Court, who guided participants through the Act’s provisions and their practical application in the justice system.
Opening the training, Justice Sesay underscored the law’s intent to protect children from exploitation and abuse, stressing that every child deserves the right to enjoy their childhood free from harm. “A child in a school uniform is a far better sight than a child in a bridal gown or carrying another child,” he told participants.
The workshop examined offences including contracting, promoting, officiating, attempting, attending, aiding and abetting, or conspiring to facilitate child marriage. It also addressed offences related to cohabitation with a child. Justice Sesay emphasized that child marriage is a non-compoundable offence, meaning cases cannot be settled through family agreements, community mediation, or financial compensation.
“No amount of money can restore a child’s dignity or undo the harm caused by child marriage,” he said, describing the practice as a grave human rights violation with lasting impacts on health, education, and future opportunities.
Participants engaged in practical sessions on investigation and prosecution strategies, including securing evidence quickly, interviewing witnesses promptly, and making greater use of electronic evidence. They also discussed the importance of establishing proof of age through birth certificates, civil registration records, and school documentation.
Concerns were raised about community efforts to conceal child marriages and the complexities of cases involving minors on both sides. Justice Sesay urged investigators to focus on adult perpetrators, facilitators, and guardians, while calling for stronger public awareness campaigns to prevent child marriage.
The training highlighted the responsibilities of citizens, public officials, traditional leaders, and communities to report suspected cases. Justice Sesay stressed that ending child marriage requires collaboration across law enforcement, the judiciary, social workers, and child protection organisations.
“This is not just a legal issue, it is a moral and social responsibility,” he said, urging stakeholders to work together to safeguard children’s rights.
The initiative forms part of Sierra Leone’s broader commitment to implementing the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024, and ensuring that every child is protected from harm. By equipping justice officials with the tools to enforce the law, Save the Children and its partners aim to create a safer environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive.
