Revised Child Rights Act Draws Criticism for Omitting FGM Ban in Sierra Leone

A new law intended to protect children in Sierra Leone has sparked criticism from advocates for failing to include a ban on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a harmful practice affecting thousands of girls across the country.

On October 14, 2025, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio signed the revised Child Rights Act into law. The updated legislation introduces protections for children’s access to healthcare, education, personal identity, and safety from abuse, and aligns Sierra Leone’s child welfare system with international agreements.

However, many advocacy groups say the law missed a crucial opportunity to protect girls from FGM. Despite growing calls to criminalize the practice, the legislation does not explicitly outlaw it. The ECOWAS Court has described FGM as one of the worst forms of violence against women, noting it can meet the threshold of torture when carried out intentionally.

Campaigners argue that without a legal ban, those who perform FGM continue to operate with impunity. Alimatu Dimonekene, MBE, said the omission “leaves a gap in protection and shows that political hesitation has taken priority over the safety and dignity of girls.” Advocates also warn that the decision contravenes Sierra Leone’s commitments under regional and international human rights frameworks.

The Forum Against Harmful Practices (FAHP) highlighted concerns over recent mass initiation events in Kenema, where many school-aged girls missed exams and faced serious health risks. The group emphasized that FGM can cause long-term physical complications, mental trauma, and, in extreme cases, death.

Responding to the criticism, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs Isata Mahoi said the President has the authority to determine what is included in the law but stressed that the government remains committed to protecting children’s rights.

Advocates maintain that the law’s success will be judged by its practical impact, not just its text, and many hope it will spark further discussions leading to stronger protections for girls in Sierra Leone.