At this week’s Government Weekly Press Conference held on Tuesday, 12th May 2026, at the Miatta Civic Center, officials spotlighted the growing social challenges linked to family breakdown, while also reaffirming commitments to transparency and accountability. The discussions came ahead of Sierra Leone’s first formal commemoration of the International Day of Families.
Transparency Through Cabinet Conclusions
Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, reiterated Government’s pledge to open governance by continuing the publication of Cabinet Conclusions. He emphasized President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to keeping citizens informed about key decisions.
One of the major outcomes from the 6th May 2026 Cabinet meeting was the approval of amendments to the Work Permit Act 2023, aligning it with the digitized work permit system launched in January 2026.
Religious Regulation Clarification
Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, dismissed claims of a government policy targeting religious preaching. She clarified that consultations are ongoing to regulate the conduct of clerics, not worship itself. She assured that the process is nationwide, inclusive, and subject to Cabinet approval.
Family Breakdown and Social Challenges
Minister Karminty stressed that drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, early marriage, and juvenile delinquency are rooted in weakening family structures. She described the family as the “foundation of society” and underscored the need to restore family values for national development. Sierra Leone will formally commemorate the International Day of Families for the first time since its UN establishment in 1993.
National Family Day Activities
To mark the observance, activities will begin on Saturday, 16th May 2026, with an awareness march from Aberdeen to SOS Children’s Village. Participants will sign a public commitment board supporting strong families. A National Conference on the State of the Family is scheduled for Monday, 18th May 2026, at the Miatta Civic Center.
Gender Equality Concerns
Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, highlighted persistent challenges facing women and girls, particularly in rural and female-headed households. While acknowledging progress in women’s participation across MDAs, she noted limited leadership opportunities. She emphasized that empowering women strengthens families and drives national development.
Drug Task Force Rehabilitation Efforts
Ansumana Kanneh, Pillar Lead for Rehabilitation and Reintegration at the National Task Force on Drug and Substance Abuse, disclosed that five rehabilitation centres have been established in Hastings, Daru, Bo, Kono, and Makeni. Since inception, 784 individuals have undergone rehabilitation, with 88% male and 12% female beneficiaries.
Kanneh linked the drug crisis to family breakdown, warning that some parents are directly involving children in drug-related activities. He urged families to take greater responsibility in guiding and protecting young people.
This press conference painted a sobering picture of Sierra Leone’s social challenges while underscoring the Government’s dual focus on transparency and family-centered development.