By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, February 18, 2026: President Dr Julius Maada Bio has received Dr Maxime Houinato, UN Women Regional Director for West and Central Africa, at State Lodge, Hill Station. The courtesy call reaffirmed UN Women’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s ongoing gender-focused reforms, including the constitutional review process and full implementation of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act.
Dr Houinato is in Sierra Leone on a six-day visit to deepen high-level partnerships and accelerate progress on gender equality. Introducing the delegation, Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs Hindowa Buakai Bindi said the visit reflects appreciation for President Bio’s leadership and sustained support for women and girls.
The UN Women Regional Director praised Sierra Leone’s landmark achievements, notably the enactment of the GEWE Act and the Gender Accountability Framework, describing them as pivotal reforms with regional and global relevance. He noted Sierra Leone’s progress could serve as a model for other countries in the region.
President Bio welcomed the delegation and expressed gratitude for UN Women’s partnership. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to women’s empowerment through the Human Capital Development agenda, citing progress in girls’ education, improved examination outcomes, inclusion of pregnant girls in schools, and STEM opportunities for female students in universities.
He assured UN Women of his administration’s determination to fully implement the GEWE Act and integrate gender priorities into the ongoing constitutional reform process.