By Sallieu S. Kanu
New York, March 4, 2026: Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, joined global leaders and advocates at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) to lead a high-level discussion on accelerating efforts to end child marriage.
The event, titled “Accelerating Efforts to End Child Marriage,” was organized by the Institute of Global Politics Women’s Initiative. It brought together distinguished voices including former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, Sheryl Sandberg, Mabel van Oranje, and UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.
Dr. Bio emphasized the urgent need for stronger policies, sustained investment in girls’ education, and global collaboration to protect girls from child marriage. She reaffirmed her commitment as both First Lady of Sierra Leone and President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), noting that the fight against child marriage is central to advancing gender equality and safeguarding the future of young girls.
“The discussion reinforced our shared commitment to ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive free from child marriage,” she said.
Child marriage remains a pressing issue worldwide, with UNICEF estimating that over 12 million girls are married before the age of 18 each year. In Sierra Leone, Dr. Bio has championed initiatives to strengthen laws against child marriage, expand access to education, and empower communities to protect girls.
Her leadership through OAFLAD has also amplified African voices in global advocacy, aligning with international partners to accelerate progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5 on gender equality.
The Columbia University dialogue highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration, with participants calling for governments, civil society, and international organizations to intensify efforts. The presence of high-profile advocates underscored the global momentum behind ending child marriage and advancing girls’ rights.