By: Aminata Sesay
Gender advocate Sahr Kendema has renewed his call for the Government of Sierra Leone to embed robust and enforceable protections for women’s rights in the revised 1991 Constitution. His appeal came during the presentation of the Sierra Leone National Women’s Communiqué on the Constitutional Review Process to the Female Caucus of Parliament, the Chief Minister, the Attorney-General’s office, Members of Parliament, and development partners.
Addressing the high-level gathering in Parliament, Kendema described the ongoing constitutional review as a pivotal moment for the nation—one that must correct entrenched gender inequalities and reflect the aspirations of Sierra Leonean women.
He anchored his message in the findings of the 2004 Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Report, which documented decades of discrimination faced by women before, during, and after the civil conflict. Citing the report’s conclusion that such discrimination has “no justification,” Kendema emphasized that constitutional reform must directly address these injustices.
The TRC not only exposed the extent of gender discrimination but also called for comprehensive reforms repealing discriminatory laws, ensuring gender parity in governance, and including women at all levels of decision-making.
Kendema highlighted the gaps between the 2016 Constitutional Review Committee (CRC) proposals and the Government White Paper, pointing out that several progressive recommendations for women’s empowerment were rejected. He urged both government and Parliament to revisit these omissions and ensure the revised Constitution reflects the needs and priorities of women across the country.
The communiqué, presented by Kendema, outlines several urgent reforms, including: making health, education, and humane detention rights legally enforceable. Establishing a minimum one-third quota for women in all three branches of government. Affirming women’s full rights to land ownership and control. Removing discriminatory exclusions in the Chieftaincy Act. Institutionalizing proportional representation and allowing independent presidential candidates. Ensuring accessible, disability-friendly versions of the Constitution.
The communiqué also calls on Parliament especially the Female Caucus to review the rejected CRC recommendations and lead nationwide awareness efforts. It urges civil society to coordinate advocacy and strengthen women’s participation, while development partners are encouraged to monitor the review process and fund women-led organizations.
A formal copy of the recommendations was submitted to the Chief Minister for onward transmission to President Julius Maada Bio. Kendema welcomed the government’s initial responsiveness but emphasized that the final Constitution must include measurable, enforceable guarantees for women’s rights.
“Women’s empowerment is a right, not a favour,” he stated. “If we are serious about giving women a meaningful voice, the new Constitution must reflect that seriousness.”
Kendema underscored that the constitutional review presents a rare opportunity to strengthen democracy, promote equality, and set Sierra Leone on a path toward inclusive development.
“This is the moment to act. A gender-responsive Constitution is not just beneficial for women it is essential for national progress,” he concluded.