In observance of a global day dedicated to ending child sexual exploitation and violence, Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of Sierra Leone, delivered a powerful public lecture on the importance of women’s leadership and gender equality at the University of Makeni (UNIMAK).
The event, held at the Fatima Campus Auditorium, brought together students, university staff, government officials, community leaders, and civil society representatives to discuss key issues related to Sierra Leone’s development and the protection of women and girls.
During her address, the First Lady emphasized the essential role that women’s leadership and gender equality play in shaping a sustainable future for the nation. She explained that empowering women is not a rejection of culture or a confrontation with men, but a matter of justice and fairness. She added that when both women and men are given equal opportunities in decision-making, the country progresses more rapidly and more equitably.
Her Excellency highlighted how gender-inclusive policies can improve health, education, and economic outcomes, noting that nations become stronger and fairer when women’s voices are heard in leadership spaces.
Sharing her personal journey, she reflected on experiences that motivated her to advocate for girls and women, noting how exclusionary attitudes fueled her determination. She spoke about her flagship initiative, Hands Off Our Girls, which combats rape, early marriage, and violence against young girls. The campaign’s nationwide awareness efforts, she said, are a crucial step toward safeguarding Sierra Leone’s children and promoting gender justice.
Speaking directly to the students, the First Lady encouraged them to see themselves as agents of change. She urged them to challenge harmful norms, promote fairness, and use their education to contribute to national development. She reminded them that universities should be places where values are nurtured and leaders are shaped.
Dr. Bio stressed that real progress depends on respecting human dignity and ensuring that everyone is included in decision-making processes. She noted that Sierra Leone cannot achieve its full potential if women are restricted by cultural barriers or discriminatory systems. When women share leadership roles, she said, the nation benefits from broader perspectives, greater accountability, and stronger unity.
As she concluded, the First Lady reminded the audience that November 18 is more than a date it is a global call to protect children and empower future generations. She encouraged students to be courageous, compassionate, and forward-thinking.
“Our country’s future depends on the courage of young people and the strength of women,” she affirmed.