NatCA Hails First Lady on UN Child Marriage Resolution

The National Communications Authority (NatCA) has congratulated Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, on her pioneering advocacy that contributed to the adoption of a United Nations resolution designating 27 November as the International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early and Forced Marriage.
The landmark resolution is being hailed as a significant step forward in the global campaign to end child, early and forced marriage, practices that continue to affect millions of girls and women around the world.
In a congratulatory message, NatCA commended First Lady Fatima Bio for her sustained advocacy through the “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign, which has placed the protection, empowerment and advancement of girls at the centre of national and international conversations.
According to NatCA, the adoption of the UN resolution represents an important milestone in strengthening global efforts to protect children from harmful practices and ensure that every girl has the opportunity to learn, grow and fulfil her potential.

The Authority noted that the recognition of 27 November as an international day would provide an important platform for governments, civil society organisations, communities and international institutions to renew their commitment to eliminating child, early and forced marriage.
NatCA further described the achievement as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility of governments, families, communities and institutions to safeguard the rights, dignity and future of every child, particularly the girl child.
The Authority particularly praised Dr. Fatima Bio for taking the “Hands Off Our Girls” advocacy beyond Sierra Leone’s borders and amplifying the call for stronger global action against practices that undermine the rights and development of girls.
The First Lady has, over the years, used the campaign to raise awareness about sexual violence, child marriage, teenage pregnancy and other forms of abuse affecting girls and women.
NatCA said her international advocacy has helped give greater visibility to the challenges faced by girls and has contributed to strengthening the global call for policies and actions aimed at protecting them.
The Authority stressed that ending child, early and forced marriage requires sustained collaboration among governments, traditional and religious leaders, families, communities, development partners and civil society organisations.

It added that beyond legislation and international resolutions, meaningful progress would require continued public education, economic empowerment, access to education and stronger protection mechanisms for vulnerable girls.
“As Sierra Leone celebrates this historic feat,” NatCA said, it joins the nation in applauding the First Lady for championing a cause that transcends national borders and gives a stronger voice to girls everywhere.
The Authority concluded by extending its congratulations to Dr. Fatima Maada Bio for what it described as a remarkable achievement and for her continued contribution to the protection and empowerment of the girl child