By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu – Bo City
The Law Reform Commission of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the UNDP Inclusive Governance, Peace and Prosperity Project, has convened a one-day regional consultative meeting in Bo to review the *Matrimonial Causes Act, Cap 102.
The event, held at Galliness Paradise Hotel, brought together a wide range 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 national efforts to modernize Sierra Leone’s legal framework and align it with international standards. The focus is on reviewing the Matrimonial Causes Act first enacted in 1950 which governs issues related to the dissolution of marriage, judicial separation, matrimonial property settlement, 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 Sierra Leone’s most significant family-related laws. She noted that while the Act has served the country for nearly 75 years, it no longer adequately reflects the realities of modern 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 aims to gather broad-based input to ensure the revised law is equitable, constitutionally compliant, and reflective of contemporary family life.
Speaking on behalf of the UNDP Resident Representative, Alie B. Sesay, Senior Rule of Law and Human Rights Officer, reaffirmed UNDP’s continued support for justice sector reform in Sierra Leone. He highlighted that the exercise is not just about reviewing 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 lawmaking—where 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 stated.
He also recalled UNDP’s role in supporting major reforms within Sierra Leone’s justice sector, including the recent enactment of the Criminal Procedure Act 2024, the development of the Police Bill and Mediation Bill (both currently awaiting legislative approval), and the ongoing consolidation of criminal statutes.
“These reforms aim to modernize the legal framework, enhance access to justice, and ensure that justice delivery is efficient, people-centered, and aligned 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 added.
The Bo consultation is one of several regional engagements intended to gather diverse perspectives before a revised version of the Act is finalized and presented to Parliament for consideration.