Strengthening Child Protection SL Launches Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024

On September 17, 2024, the Ministry of Social Welfare, in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police (Family Support Unit), convened a pivotal stakeholders’ meeting at the Police Wives Association Hall in Kingtom. This gathering was centered on the rollout of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024 and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry and the Sierra Leone Police (SLP).

Inspector General of Police Mr. William Fayia Sellu expressed his honor in participating in discussions about the Act’s implementation and the signing of the MoU on behalf of the SLP. He emphasized that the MoU represents a commitment to fulfill the vision of Sierra Leone’s First Lady and the broader national goal of eradicating early child marriage.

Mr. Sellu underscored the urgency of widespread support for the implementation and enforcement of the new law, highlighting that the Ministry of Social Welfare and the SLP cannot tackle the issue in isolation. He called upon other ministries, departments, agencies, and both local and international organizations to join the collaborative effort against child marriage, stressing the need to engage rural communities and their traditional leaders directly.

During his address, the IGP identified persistent challenges in enforcing the Act, particularly the troubling trend of parents settling child marriage cases for minimal compensation. He urged vigilance from both the Ministry and police officers in addressing this issue, emphasizing the need for community education and engagement through the National Council for Civic Education and Development (NACED) in the rollout process.

Mr. Sellu also highlighted the significant delays that often hinder the adjudication of cases related to child marriage. To combat this, he advocated for the establishment of a fast-track court dedicated solely to handling early child marriage matters, ensuring timely justice for victims.

In alignment with the SLP’s commitment to combatting child marriage, Mr. Sellu announced plans for a one-stop center for such cases, to be located on the top floor of the new police station under construction in Aberdeen, which is expected to open in November 2024. This center aims to provide comprehensive support for victims and streamline the reporting process.

Furthermore, the IGP informed attendees about the SLP’s witness protection scheme designed to protect whistleblowers, encouraging more individuals to come forward in reporting offenses. He also noted that the Family Support Unit has already initiated the rollout of the new law through a series of training programs for personnel, ensuring they are well-equipped to enforce the legislation effectively.

The signed MoU between the Ministry of Social Welfare and the Sierra Leone Police outlines various collaborative aspects, including the purpose of the agreement, its objectives, and the responsibilities of both parties. It specifically mandates that the SLP ensure that officers within the Family Support Units handle cases related to child abuse, child justice, domestic violence, human trafficking, sexual and gender-based violence, and other family welfare issues.

Both parties have committed to reviewing each case involving a child in conflict with the law, determining whether to apply the diversion policy or to proceed with a police investigation, thereby ensuring a sensitive and just approach to child welfare.

The event concluded with a group photo session, symbolizing a significant step forward in the fight against child marriage in Sierra Leone. This initiative not only demonstrates a united front among various stakeholders but also marks the beginning of a more coordinated and effective approach to protecting the rights of children and ensuring their safety and well-being.

As Sierra Leone moves forward with the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024, the collective commitment of the government, law enforcement, and community organizations will be crucial in creating a safer environment for children and fostering a culture that prioritizes their rights.