Sierra Leone Enacts Landmark Ban on Child Marriage

New law imposes strict penalties and aims to protect girls under 18 from forced marriages.

President Julius Maada Bio signed the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act into law at a public ceremony.
The legislation includes penalties of up to 15 years in prison and fines for those involved in underage marriages.
First Lady Fatima Bio, a key advocate for the law, emphasized its importance for future generations.
Rights activists have hailed the law as a significant milestone in promoting human rights and protecting girls.
The law also aims to reduce maternal deaths linked to child marriages, a major issue in Sierra Leone.