Gender Minister Expresses Reservations Over Child Rights Act at EmpowerHER Launch

The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Isata Mahoi, has expressed reservations about provisions of the Child Rights Act of 2025, stating that while progress has been made in reforming child protection laws, gaps remain in safeguarding girls from harmful practices.

Speaking at the launch of the seven-year EmpowerHER Project spearheaded by CAUSE Canada, Dr. Mahoi said she was dissatisfied with certain aspects of the legislation.

“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 stated.

The EmpowerHER Project, funded by Global Affairs Canada, is expected to reach 480 rural communities across seven districts. The initiative seeks to promote dignity, equality, and opportunity for girls and women by addressing harmful practices, strengthening education access, and supporting economic empowerment.

Civil society organizations have also voiced concerns that the Child Rights Act does not go far enough in protecting children from practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM). Advocacy groups continue to call for stronger legal safeguards to ensure comprehensive protection for girls.

Dr. Mahoi’s remarks highlight both the strides made in legislative reform and the ongoing challenges within Sierra Leone’s child protection framework. Her commitment to achieving Zero FGM signals continued policy focus on strengthening protections beyond existing legal provisions.