Gender Minister Mahoi Advocates Stronger Women’s Representation in African Politics

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, has called for stronger efforts to increase women’s participation in political leadership across Africa, stressing that inclusive governance is essential for the continent’s sustainable development.

Dr. Mahoi made the appeal while addressing delegates at the West Africa Women’s Political Leadership Forum in Abuja, Nigeria, on Thursday, 30 July 2026.

Addressing participants from across the region, the Minister reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to advancing women’s representation in politics and decision-making. She said the country has made significant progress through legislative reforms and policies aimed at expanding opportunities for women to participate in governance and assume leadership roles.

While highlighting these achievements, Dr. Mahoi acknowledged that women across Africa continue to face challenges that limit their full participation in public leadership. She identified barriers such as limited economic opportunities, unequal access to employment, and underrepresentation in leadership positions.

According to the Minister, meaningful political participation cannot be achieved without strengthening women’s economic empowerment and ensuring equal rights and opportunities. She stressed that empowering women economically is key to enabling them to contribute effectively to governance and national development.

Dr. Mahoi also expressed Sierra Leone’s readiness to share its experiences and best practices with other African countries seeking to promote women’s protection, economic empowerment, and meaningful participation in politics.

She called on African governments, regional institutions, civil society organisations, and development partners to work together to create an enabling environment where women have equal opportunities to lead and participate in decision-making processes.

The West Africa Women’s Political Leadership Forum brought together government officials, policymakers, gender advocates, and development partners to discuss strategies for strengthening women’s leadership and advancing gender equality across the region.