By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
The Law Reform Commission of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the UNDP Inclusive Governance, Peace and Prosperity Project, recently held a one-day regional consultative meeting in Bo to review the Matrimonial Causes Act, Cap 102. The event, hosted at Galliness Paradise Hotel, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including traditional authorities, civil society organizations, legal practitioners, human rights institutions, the Inter-Religious Council, non-governmental organizations, and the media.
This consultative session is part of broader efforts to modernize Sierra Leone’s legal framework and bring it in line with international standards. The focus was specifically on revisiting the Matrimonial Causes Act, first enacted in 1950, which governs issues related to the dissolution of marriages, judicial separation, matrimonial property settlements, child custody, and post-separation financial matters.
In her opening remarks, Madam Lucy Seiwoh, Executive Secretary of the Law Reform Commission, described the review as a “crucial step in a broader, inclusive process” to reform one of the country’s most significant family-related laws. She explained that while the Act has served its purpose for nearly 75 years, it no longer adequately addresses the evolving realities of Sierra Leonean families.
“Over the years, societal norms, family structures, gender roles, and international human rights standards have evolved. It has therefore become increasingly clear that this Act requires a comprehensive review to ensure it remains responsive, inclusive, and just,” Madam Seiwoh emphasized. She added that the consultative process seeks broad-based input to ensure the revised law is equitable, constitutionally compliant, and reflective of modern family dynamics.
On behalf of the UNDP Resident Representative, Alie B. Sesay, Senior Rule of Law and Human Rights Officer, reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to Sierra Leone’s justice sector reform. He highlighted that the review was not just about updating a piece of legislation, but also about reaffirming the country’s commitment to justice, equality, and the protection of rights within families and communities.
“This process reflects the participatory spirit of lawmakingwhere laws are not simply written for the people but shaped by them. Marriage and family lie at the heart of society, and the Matrimonial Causes Act must reflect today’s realities,” Sesay said.
He also recalled UNDP’s role in supporting key reforms within Sierra Leone’s justice sector, such as the enactment of the Criminal Procedure Act 2024, the development of the Police Bill and Mediation Bill (both currently awaiting legislative processes), and the ongoing consolidation of criminal statutes.
“These reforms collectively aim to modernize the legal framework, enhance access to justice, and ensure efficient, people-centered justice delivery in line with international standards. The review of the Matrimonial Causes Act builds on this momentum by addressing laws that directly impact the daily lives of families and communities nationwide,” Sesay affirmed.
The Bo consultative meeting is one of several regional engagements designed to incorporate diverse perspectives into the reform process. After these consultations, the revised Act will be finalized and presented for legislative consideration.