First Lady Fatima Bio Launches Women's Development, Promises Market Support

First Lady Fatima Bio Launches Women's Development, Promises Market Support

In a major boost for grassroots female empowerment, First Lady Fatima Bio officially launched the Women’s Development Organization in Waterloo on Sunday, May 17, 2026.

The launch was organized in response to a joint invitation from the Waterloo Market Women and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) Western Rural District executive.

Bridging the Gap Between Government and Communities

Speaking at the event, Her Excellency emphasized her role as a direct link between the presidency and local communities, reinforcing her commitment to grassroots engagement. 

“As First Lady and Mother of the Nation, I recognize that my husband, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, cannot be in every community at once," she stated. "My role is to complement his efforts by reaching the people directly, listening to their concerns, engaging with them, and relaying their messages firsthand."

Addressing the immediate grievances of the local traders, the First Lady identified the lack of proper market infrastructure as the community's most urgent challenge. She promised swift action, announcing that once the land allocated for the market is fully secured, she will return before the end of 2026 to officially launch the construction project.

In addition to infrastructure, the First Lady revealed a major financial boost for local businesswomen. She reaffirmed that all funds raised through her flagship Hands Off Our Girls campaign will be redirected toward the “Table Banking Project.” This initiative is designed to provide critical working capital to market women, allowing them to expand their businesses and secure sustainable livelihoods. 

The event also served as an educational platform. First Lady Fatima Bio took the opportunity to sensitize the attendees on the landmark Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act. She broke down its legal provisions and significance, explaining how the law actively creates leadership, economic, and social opportunities for women across Sierra Leone.

The launch marks another milestone in the First Lady's ongoing efforts to champion women's rights and economic independence at the community level.