Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, His Lordship Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, has been recognized as a HeForShe Champion for his commitment to advancing gender equality and promoting women’s empowerment.
The recognition was conferred on him at the SheArose Summit 2026, held at Family Kingdom in Aberdeen, Freetown, on Monday, 9th November 2026.
The honour acknowledges several reforms introduced under Chief Justice Kamanda’s leadership within less than two years of his appointment in December 2024 by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio.
Among the notable reforms are the establishment of three Sexual Offences Model Courts in the provinces, the recruitment and appointment of more female judges and magistrates, and the appointment of the Judiciary’s first female Legal Researcher.
Other significant developments include the introduction of Court of Appeal sittings in the provinces and the commissioning of the first Magistrate’s Court in Mile 91, Tonkolili District. The Judiciary also assigned the first resident magistrate to Mile 91 to serve four chiefdoms and ten sections.
Speaking at the event, the Founder of the SheArose Foundation and Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Kadijatu Grace Kamara, explained that the organization was established to empower women while recognizing and celebrating men who actively support women’s development, advancement and personal growth.
“We are only celebrating men of conscience and influence who stand with women and open doors for them,” Dr. Kamara said.
She added that the recognition was part of the foundation’s commitment to acknowledging men who use their influence to promote women’s advancement.
“We know that women do not rise alone. It is in this spirit that the SheArose Summit 2026 proudly named His Lordship the Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda as our Chief Honoree and HeForShe Champion,” she stated.
Dr. Kamara further commended the Chief Justice for his commitment to women’s growth and development, particularly through his leadership of the Judiciary.
According to her, Chief Justice Kamanda believes that women deserve equal representation in decision-making spaces and has publicly committed to advancing equal access to justice for all.
“The Chief Justice holds firmly that women deserve a seat at the table where decisions are made. As head of Sierra Leone’s Judiciary, he has publicly pledged to advance equal rights to justice for all persons, and his leadership affirms that justice and equality belong to women as fully as to men,” she said.
Addressing the Chief Justice, Dr. Kamara expressed appreciation for his support for women’s advancement, noting that his actions could inspire more men to promote gender equality.
“My Lord, thank you for standing with the women of Sierra Leone. Your belief in women strengthens our nation, and your example inspires more men to become champions of equity,” she said.