By: Aminata Sesay
After more than seven decades under a colonial-era law governing family and marital relations, Sierra Leone is taking a decisive step toward reform. The Law Reform Commission (LRC), with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, has launched nationwide consultations to modernize the Matrimonial Causes Act of 1950 — a statute that many believe no longer reflects the realities of today’s families.
The consultative process, which brought together government officials, legal experts, gender advocates, faith leaders, and civil society representatives, aims to update key provisions related to divorce, property division, child custody, and maintenance. Stakeholders agreed that while the law was foundational in its time, it has fallen behind contemporary understandings of justice and gender equality.
UNDP’s Senior Rule of Law and Human Rights Officer, Alie B. Sesay, described the exercise as “a reaffirmation of Sierra Leone’s commitment to equality and justice within families.” He emphasized that legal reform is crucial to ensure that women and children who often bear the brunt of outdated legal frameworks receive fair treatment under the law.
“This review is not simply about changing a legal text,” Sesay said. “It’s about aligning our laws with the values of modern society respect, fairness, and equality for all.”
He noted that the UNDP continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening Sierra Leone’s justice system, citing its involvement in the Criminal Procedure Act, the Police Bill, and the Mediation Bill, all aimed at fostering a more inclusive and rights-based legal environment.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, Director of Policy and Research Ibrahim Kamara described the reform as “a necessary correction to history.” He stressed that the current Act contains provisions inconsistent with global conventions Sierra Leone has ratified, such as CEDAW (1988) and the Maputo Protocol, both of which require the removal of discriminatory laws and practices against women.
“The time has come for Sierra Leone’s family laws to reflect equality not as a slogan, but as a lived reality,” Kamara said.
He also referenced progressive legislation already enacted, including the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act (2022) and the Sexual Offences Act (2012, amended 2019), while acknowledging that implementation remains a challenge.
At the heart of this reform effort is the Law Reform Commission’s Executive Secretary, Lucy-Mae Seiwoh, who emphasized the importance of public participation in shaping a fairer family law. She explained that the process involves extensive regional consultations and technical reviews supported by UNDP, ensuring the final draft is both inclusive and forward-looking.
“Our goal is to craft a law that mirrors the values of today’s Sierra Leone—a law grounded in fairness, equality, and respect for human dignity,” Seiwoh affirmed.
For many, the review of the Matrimonial Causes Act symbolizes more than just legal reform it represents Sierra Leone’s broader determination to build a justice system that responds to the rights and aspirations of its citizens. As consultations continue, stakeholders are hopeful that the new Act will bridge the gap between tradition and transformation, ushering in a new era of equality within Sierra Leonean families.