Police, Prosecutors Receive Training on Child Marriage Law Enforcement

The Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs, in partnership with Save the Children and the Child Justice Steering Committee, has conducted a specialized training for police investigators and state prosecutors on the effective enforcement of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024.

The one-day workshop, held in Freetown, brought together key stakeholders from Sierra Leone's justice sector to strengthen the country's response to child marriage by enhancing the capacity of those responsible for investigating and prosecuting offences under the new law.

The training focused on equipping law enforcement officers and state prosecutors with the knowledge and practical skills required to implement the provisions of the landmark legislation, ensuring that perpetrators of child marriage are investigated thoroughly and prosecuted effectively.

Facilitating the session, Supreme Court Judge Hon. Justice Alusine Sesay provided participants with detailed guidance on the provisions of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024.

He highlighted the practical application of the law within Sierra Leone's justice system and stressed the importance of consistent enforcement to ensure accountability for offenders.

The workshop forms part of ongoing efforts by Save the Children and its partners to support the Government of Sierra Leone in translating the provisions of the Act into meaningful action that protects children, particularly girls, from child marriage and its harmful consequences.

The enactment of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024, marked a significant milestone in Sierra Leone's efforts to safeguard children's rights and eliminate child marriage. By strengthening the capacity of investigators and prosecutors, the training is expected to improve the enforcement of the law and enhance access to justice for victims.

The initiative also reflects the continued collaboration between the Government of Sierra Leone, the judiciary, civil society organizations and development partners in advancing child protection and ensuring that every child can grow up in a safe environment free from exploitation and abuse.