Hon Zombo Wins African Girl Child Advocacy Award

By Abdul Rahman Bah

Sierra Leonean Member of Parliament Mariama Munia Zombo has received continental recognition for her commitment to protecting the rights of girls and ending child marriage, after being named the recipient of the Legislative Leadership and Girl Child Protection Advocacy Award at the 2026 African Matriarch Impact Awards (AMIA).

The award recognises Zombo’s legislative contribution to the fight against child marriage and her efforts to promote the rights, dignity and protection of girls in Sierra Leone and across Africa.

Zombo, who represents Pujehun District in Parliament, earned the recognition following her role in initiating and advancing legislation that prohibits child marriage in the country. Her contribution has been widely associated with one of Sierra Leone’s significant legislative interventions aimed at protecting children, particularly vulnerable girls.

In June 2024, Zombo introduced the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill as a private member’s bill in Parliament. The proposed legislation received unanimous approval from Members of Parliament on June 20, 2024, demonstrating cross-party support for stronger legal protection against child marriage.

The bill subsequently received presidential assent and became the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024, establishing a stronger legal framework to safeguard children from early and forced marriages.

The legislation sets 18 years as the minimum legal age for marriage and provides penalties for individuals involved in child marriage. It also addresses forced child marriage and cohabitation involving children, while introducing protective measures for victims.

The passage of the Act marked an important development in Sierra Leone’s efforts to address practices that have historically affected the education, health, safety and future opportunities of young girls.

Child marriage remains a major social and human rights concern in many African communities, often exposing girls to early pregnancies, school dropout, domestic violence, economic dependence and other forms of exploitation. Although legislation is essential, sustained public education, community engagement and effective enforcement remain critical to achieving lasting change.

Zombo’s recognition at the African Matriarch Impact Awards therefore highlights the importance of parliamentary leadership in addressing social challenges and advancing policies that protect vulnerable populations.

However, the real impact of the legislation will depend on how effectively it is implemented, particularly in rural communities where poverty, traditional practices and limited access to education can increase the vulnerability of young girls.

The award also presents an opportunity to encourage other lawmakers and policymakers across the continent to use their legislative positions to champion policies that promote gender equality, child protection and social justice.

For Sierra Leone, Zombo’s achievement represents an important moment in the country’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the protection of girls and ensure that every child has the opportunity to pursue education, personal development and a secure future without the threat of early marriage